Get More Out of Your Dash Cam: How Parking Cameras Can Enhance Your Safety

Getting dents and scratches on cars in parking lots is devastating. Sometimes, it can be caused by you too. But what if I told you there’s a solution that can change the game? Imagine having a parking camera along with a dash cam that keeps a record of everything. It offers you a secure travel experience.
This guide explores how to get more out of your Dash cam and how can it be used to enhance your safety.
The Evolution of Dash Cams for Safety
In the fast-evolving world, a new device is taking center stage – the dash cam. What is propelling these dashboard-mounted cameras into the spotlight? The numbers say it all. Dash cam sales have risen by 20% in one year according to The NPD Group.
The following chart shows the market size value of dash cams. According to Fortune Business Insights, the global dash cam market is expected to grow at a rate of CAGR of 25.5%.
This rapid growth highlights the popularity of dash cams as safety tools. But what’s driving this uptick? Parking cameras and dash cams now do more than document accidents after the fact. They help to prevent collisions and crime before they occur.
This feature is fueling the demand for dash cams with integrated parking camera capabilities. In short, drivers like getting automatic alerts to threats. The spike in dash cam sales confirms this. This shift from passive recording to active prevention drives dash cams’ growing popularity.
Key Functions of Advanced Parking Cameras
Modern parking cameras come with smart features. This helps them to elevate beyond video recording devices. These key functions prove their value as automotive safety tools:
- Collision Warnings: Dash cam with parking mode makes use of sensors and AI. This detects possible collisions when parking. Audible and visual alerts notify the driver in real-time. Which in turn allows them to stop in time and prevent minor damage. This adds protection beyond human judgment.
- Motion Detection: Built-in sensors trigger parking cameras to start recording. The camera notes any movement around the parked car. This captures suspicious activity or threats even with the car off and unattended. The footage can provide evidence if needed.
- 360-degree Coverage: The parking camera provides complete video coverage around the vehicle. The 360-degree parking cameras cut blind spots. Many wide-angle lenses capture every angle, assisting with parking and monitoring.
- Infrared/Night Vision: Parking cameras have infrared LEDs and night vision. They provide clear footage in low light and total darkness. This ensures optimal monitoring and video evidence 24/7.
According to a 2018 IIHS report, there was a 17% reduction in parking lot accidents. This was the impact made by parking help technology. It’s evident why parking cameras are becoming must-have automotive safety tools. Their smart functions provide 24/7 protection that goes well beyond traditional dash cams.
With these impressive safety capabilities, it’s no wonder parking cameras are gaining popularity. Let’s take a look at how they enhance driver safety in the real world.
How Parking Cameras Enhance Driver Safety
According to the National Safety Council, parking lots can be collision hotspots. More than 14% of auto insurance claims result from such incidents. Parking cameras help mitigate this risk in many ways:
- Prevents fender benders, bumper scrapes, and sideswipes. These often happen in tight parking spaces or dim garages. Parking cameras give 360-degree views and sensor-based warnings.
- Deter opportunistic thefts, vandalism, and hit-and-runs by having video evidence to catch perpetrators. Criminals tend to avoid vehicles with visible parking cameras. If an incident does occur, the footage aids police investigations.
- Hurry and confirm insurance claims. Video documentation removes any dispute over what exactly transpired. For hit-and-runs, the footage helps as strong evidence.
Parking cameras offer 24/7 protection. They watch over cars when drivers can’t. This technology gives drivers peace of mind. It keeps their cars safe when parked. Given these safety perks, it makes sense for drivers to get a parking camera. This leads to the key question – how does one choose the right parking camera for their needs?
Parking Camera Installation and Maintenance Tips
Installing your new parking camera is key to maximizing its safety benefits. Here are some best practices to follow:
- Choose the best spot to mount the camera. Consider the camera’s view and your vehicle’s size. Check the manual and diagrams for the best coverage areas.
- Mount the parking camera using the provided hardware. Improper installation causes 12% of parking camera malfunctions according to Consumer Reports. Take time to affix it.
- Adjust the viewing angle and settings. Park the car. Fine-tune the angle and night mode. This ensures the optimized camera view before finalizing the installation.
- Consider hardwiring the camera for continuous power. This provides constant protection rather than relying on battery or ignition power. Professional hardwiring kits are available.
- Test all features and connectivity. Verify motion detection, collision sensors, Wi-Fi and LTE connections are functional post-installation.
For optimal upkeep after installing your parking camera:
- Regularly clean the camera lens using a soft cloth to remove dust and grime. Buildup can degrade video quality over time.
- Check the camera often to see if it’s recording well.
- Update the firmware for new features and better performance.
- Make sure the cloud storage or SD card works. This way, you can always view your footage.
- Consider security hardening like concealed cabling to prevent tampering or theft.
Proper installation and regular maintenance will keep your parking camera in peak condition. The diligence is well worth it for the invaluable 24/7 protection it provides your vehicle.
Future of Parking Cameras: What’s on the Horizon?
The parking camera sector will grow by 25% by 2025. Exciting tech innovations will drive this growth.
- Integration with other sensors like radar for enhanced collision prevention.
- Drone pairing for an aerial view of your car’s vicinity.
- Built-in alarm triggers to deter and catch thieves red-handed.
- Connectivity with smart city infrastructure and autonomous parking capabilities.
As parking cameras get smarter, driver safety and convenience will also get elevated.
The Bottom Line
The stats speak for themselves. Parking cameras reduce parking lot damage. which in turn benefits the drivers over $4.3 billion annually according to III. When it comes to enhancing safety, parking cameras deliver 24/7 peace of mind. Drivers prioritizing protection should consider investing in these valuable automotive safety tools.
This article should not substitute legal consultation and recommended safety precautions. Local laws and parking camera product specifications must be well-known before purchasing.
FAQs
- How do parking cameras differ from regular dash cams?
While dash cams focus on recording, parking cameras provide 360-degree coverage. And monitors for stationary vehicles. 40% of new parking cameras offer all-around vision per Automotive World.
- Are parking cameras legal everywhere?
Most US states allow parking cameras but check local laws. Only 5 states restrict dash cam usage. As long as the positioning doesn’t obstruct the driver’s view that won’t be a problem.
- Can parking cameras withstand extreme weather?
Car and Driver tested premium parking cameras. They work in temperatures from -20°F to 140°F. But, performance varies. Always check product ratings before purchasing.