Los Angeles Dashcam Laws: Are They Legal? New Regulations Explained

Dashcams have become a popular tool for drivers in Los Angeles and beyond, offering an extra layer of security, evidence, and peace of mind while on the road.

Whether you’re using a dashcam to document your driving experience, capture potential accidents, or protect yourself from fraudulent claims, it’s important to understand the legal aspects surrounding their use.

With new regulations coming into play, Los Angeles drivers must be informed about what’s allowed and what’s not when it comes to dashcams.

Here’s a breakdown of the current laws and what you need to know.

Are Dashcams Legal in Los Angeles?

Yes, dashcams are legal in Los Angeles, and there are no laws specifically prohibiting their use. In fact, they are a legal tool for drivers to use in the state of California. Dashcams can serve as an invaluable resource in the event of a traffic incident, providing video evidence that could protect you in case of disputes, accidents, or other road-related events.

However, while dashcams themselves are legal, there are specific rules and guidelines that must be followed to avoid legal issues. It’s important to understand how to use dashcams responsibly to ensure compliance with California and local laws.

Key Regulations to Keep in Mind

Even though dashcams are allowed, certain regulations govern their use, especially regarding mounting, audio recording, and privacy concerns. Here are some key legal considerations for using dashcams in Los Angeles:

1. Windshield Obstruction Laws

California has strict laws regarding windshield obstructions, and this applies to dashcams. According to the California Vehicle Code, drivers are prohibited from blocking their view of the road or the area immediately surrounding their vehicle. This means that dashcams must be mounted in a way that doesn’t obstruct the driver’s line of sight, which is critical for safe driving.

Typically, dashcams are mounted on the rearview mirror or on the dashboard, but it’s important that these devices do not interfere with the driver’s visibility. California law permits dashcams to be mounted as long as they do not block critical parts of the windshield or impair the ability to drive safely. For example, mounting a dashcam directly in the center of the windshield could potentially obstruct the driver’s view of the road, and that could lead to a citation.

2. Recording Audio: Consent Laws

One of the biggest legal concerns surrounding dashcams is the issue of audio recording. California follows a two-party consent law, meaning that in any situation where conversations are being recorded, both parties involved must consent to the recording. While this primarily applies to phone calls and other conversations, it can also apply to dashcams that record audio.

If your dashcam records audio along with video, you may be inadvertently recording conversations without the consent of other individuals involved. This could be a violation of California’s wiretapping laws, especially if you are recording someone without their knowledge.

To avoid any legal issues, many dashcam users choose to disable the audio recording feature or to use dashcams that record video only. If you do want to record audio, it’s a good practice to inform any passengers or individuals in the vicinity that they may be recorded, or to ensure that the recording only captures video.

3. Public vs. Private Property

Dashcam use is typically unrestricted when you’re driving on public roads, but the situation changes when you are parked on private property. For example, if you’re recording video while parked on private property (such as in a parking lot), there may be privacy concerns from the property owner. In certain cases, property owners or businesses could object to having their space recorded, and in those situations, you may need permission to use your dashcam.

North Carolina Republicans Reintroduce Bill That Would Allow Lawsuits Against Sanctuary Cities

This is particularly important if your dashcam captures footage of private property or private individuals in the background of your video. While public spaces generally don’t have an expectation of privacy, private property does. Always be mindful of the setting and avoid recording where it could violate privacy expectations, especially in places like private parking lots or businesses.

4. Sharing Dashcam Footage

Sharing dashcam footage is another area where legal issues may arise, especially when it comes to privacy concerns. If you plan to share dashcam videos on social media or use them in public forums, be cautious. Posting videos of accidents, road rage incidents, or other sensitive events could lead to legal ramifications if the footage violates privacy rights or captures identifiable individuals without their consent.

In some cases, dashcam footage could be used as evidence in court or during insurance disputes, but if you intend to share the footage publicly, be sure to review any applicable laws regarding consent, privacy, and the potential for defamation.

5. Dashcams in Commercial Vehicles

For commercial drivers in Los Angeles, there may be additional regulations regarding the use of dashcams. Trucking companies, delivery services, and rideshare drivers may have their own internal policies governing dashcam usage, and in some cases, the use of dashcams might be required for safety and liability reasons.

For example, rideshare drivers working for companies like Uber or Lyft might have specific requirements about dashcam installation and use. While California law doesn’t prohibit the use of dashcams in these cases, rideshare drivers should follow company policies and local regulations to ensure compliance.

Benefits of Using a Dashcam in Los Angeles

Despite the legal nuances, dashcams remain a valuable tool for many drivers in Los Angeles. Here are some of the top benefits:

• Accident Protection: Dashcams can provide video evidence in the event of an accident, helping to establish fault and protect drivers from fraudulent claims or disputes.
• Witnessing Traffic Violations: Dashcam footage can help document traffic violations or reckless driving, which can be valuable for law enforcement and legal proceedings.
• Security Against Theft and Vandalism: Dashcams that record while parked can act as a deterrent against theft and vandalism. They can also provide evidence if your vehicle is damaged while parked.
• Documenting Road Rage: Dashcams can capture incidents of road rage or aggressive driving, offering protection if you’re involved in a confrontation on the road.

In Los Angeles, dashcams are legal, and they can be a valuable tool for drivers seeking to document their driving experience, protect themselves in case of accidents, or provide evidence of illegal activity. However, it’s essential to be aware of the legal regulations surrounding their use. Be mindful of potential windshield obstruction, adhere to privacy laws regarding audio recording, and be careful about sharing footage in public forums. By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your dashcam remains a helpful and legal tool for your driving needs.

As laws and technology evolve, always stay updated on any changes to dashcam regulations in Los Angeles and California to ensure you’re in full compliance.

About The Author