Dash Cam for Semi: The Ultimate Guide

As a semi-truck driver, you spend countless hours on the road, and accidents can happen anytime, anywhere. In such a scenario, a dash cam is an essential tool to have in your truck. A dash cam for semi not only helps you capture footage of any mishap but also provides evidence in case of a legal dispute. In this guide, we will take a closer look at dash cams for semi-trucks, their benefits, and how to choose the right one for your needs.

What is a Dash Cam for Semi?

A dash cam for semi is a video recording device that attaches to the dashboard or windscreen of a semi-truck. It captures high-quality footage of the road ahead and the interior of the truck. Most dash cams for semis come with features like night vision, gps tracking, and collision detection.

Benefits of Dash Cam for Semi

Having a dash cam in your semi-truck offers numerous benefits, including:

1. Evidence in case of accidents

A dash cam for semi captures footage of any incident on the road, providing solid evidence in case of a legal dispute. This is particularly important in situations where insurance fraud or false claims are involved.

2. Improved Driver Behavior

Knowing that they are being monitored can motivate drivers to follow traffic rules, drive safely, and avoid accidents. Dash cams can also help to identify dangerous driving behaviors that can be corrected with proper training.

3. Reduced Insurance Premiums

Most insurance companies offer discounts to drivers who have dash cams installed in their trucks. These discounts can range from 5% to 15%, depending on the insurer.

4. Protection against Theft and Vandalism

A dash cam for semi can also deter theft and vandalism. If someone tries to break into the truck, the dash cam will capture the incident, making it easier to identify the culprit.

Features to Consider When Choosing a Dash Cam for Semi

Before purchasing a dash cam for your semi-truck, there are several features to consider, including:

1. Video Quality

The video quality of a dash cam is one of the most critical features to consider. A dash cam with high resolution captures clear and sharp footage that can be used as evidence in case of a legal dispute.

2. Field of View

The field of view of a dash cam determines the amount of the road ahead that the camera can capture. A wider field of view is better as it captures more footage, reducing the chances of missing any important details.

3. Night Vision

Driving at night can be dangerous, and a dash cam with night vision can capture clear footage even in low light conditions. Look for a dash cam with an infrared sensor for the best results.

4. GPS Tracking

GPS tracking allows you to track the location and speed of your truck. This feature can be particularly useful in case of theft or when monitoring driver behavior.

Top Dash Cams for Semi

Now that we have looked at the benefits of dash cams for semi-trucks and the features to consider when choosing one, let's take a closer look at some of the top dash cams for semis.

1. Garmin Dash Cam 66W

The Garmin Dash Cam 66W is a high-end dash cam with excellent video quality, a wide field of view, and a compact design. It also comes with features like GPS tracking, voice control, and collision detection.

2. BlackVue DR900S-2CH

The BlackVue DR900S-2CH is a dual-channel dash cam that captures footage of both the road ahead and the interior of the truck. It comes with a 4K UHD camera, night vision, and built-in GPS

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3. Thinkware F800 Pro

The Thinkware F800 Pro is a top-of-the-line dash cam that captures high-quality footage and comes with features like GPS tracking, night vision, and collision detection. It also has a parking mode that records any incidents that occur when the truck is parked.

4. Vantrue N2 Pro

The Vantrue N2 Pro is a dual-channel dash cam that captures footage of both the road ahead and the interior of the truck. It has a wide field of view, night vision, and a parking mode. It also comes with a built-in microphone that records audio inside the truck.

How to Install a Dash Cam for Semi

Installing a dash cam for semi-trucks is a straightforward process. Here are the steps to follow:

1. Choose a suitable location for the dash cam. Ideally, it should be mounted on the dashboard or windscreen.
2. Clean the mounting surface with a microfiber cloth to ensure that it is free from dust and debris.
3. Attach the dash cam to the mounting bracket and connect the power cable.
4. Route the power cable along the truck's interior and connect it to a power source.
5. Adjust the angle of the dash cam to ensure that it captures the desired field of view.

Conclusion

A dash cam for semi is a must-have tool for any truck driver. It not only provides evidence in case of accidents but also improves driver behavior, reduces insurance premiums, and protects against theft and vandalism. When choosing a dash cam, consider features like video quality, field of view, night vision, and GPS tracking. Some of the top dash cams for semis include the Garmin Dash Cam 66W, BlackVue DR900S-2CH, Thinkware F800 Pro, and Vantrue N2 Pro. Installing a dash cam is a straightforward process that can be done in a few simple steps.

FAQs

1. Are dash cams for semis legal?

Yes, dash cams for semis are legal as long as they do not obstruct the driver's view of the road.

1. How long do dash cam recordings last?

Dash cam recordings can last anywhere from a few hours to several weeks, depending on the storage capacity of the device.

1. Can dash cam footage be used as evidence in court?

Yes, dash cam footage can be used as evidence in court, provided that it is relevant to the case and has not been tampered with.

1. How much do dash cams for semis cost?

Dash cams for semis can cost anywhere from $50 to $500, depending on the features and quality of the device.

1. Can dash cams be installed in other types of vehicles?

Yes, dash cams can be installed in any type of vehicle, including cars, trucks, and vans.