Dash cams, small video cameras that mount to the dashboard or windshield of your vehicle, are increasingly popular for their ability to provide valuable evidence in the case of accidents or traffic incidents. However, mounting anything on your windshield in Tennessee comes with a unique set of regulations. In this article, we’ll break down everything you need to know about using dash cams legally in Tennessee.
Are dash cams legal in Tennessee?
Yes, dash cams are legal in Tennessee. However, the state has specific laws regarding windshield obstructions that directly impact where you can legally mount the device.
Tennessee Windshield Obstruction Laws
Tennessee Code Annotated § 55-9-107 addresses items that can obstruct a driver’s view. The law states:
- No person shall drive any motor vehicle with any sign, poster, or other nontransparent material upon the front windshield, side wings, or side or rear windows of such vehicle that materially obstructs the driver’s clear view of the highway or an interesting road.
- No person shall drive any motor vehicle with any object or material placed on, attached to, or hanging from the windshield, side, or rear windows in a manner as to materially obstruct or reduce the driver’s clear view through the windshield, side, or rear windows.
Since dash cams can potentially obstruct a driver’s view, their placement is key to remaining compliant with the law.
Best Practices for Dash Cam Placement
To avoid violating Tennessee’s windshield obstruction laws, follow these guidelines:
- Dashboard Placement: Mounting your dash cam on the dashboard is the safest way to ensure compliance and avoid obstructing your view of the road.
- Lower Corner of Windshield: If you prefer windshield mounting, place your dash cam in the lower corner of the windshield, preferably on the passenger side, to minimize obstruction.
- Size Matters: Choose a compact dash cam that won’t significantly impede your vision.
Audio Recording and Privacy Considerations
Tennessee is a “one-party consent” state when it comes to audio recording. This means you can legally record conversations you are a part of without notifying the other parties. However, there are privacy limitations to consider:
- Private Property: If you’re in a location with a reasonable expectation of privacy (e.g., someone else’s home), recording audio without explicit consent could become a legal issue.
- Public Setting: In public places, it’s generally legal to record audio discreetly as part of your dash cam footage. However, be mindful of sensitive situations or if you intend to share the footage.
Benefits of Using Dash Cams in Tennessee
Dash cam footage can be valuable in various scenarios in Tennessee:
- Accident Evidence: Video recording can provide crucial evidence of fault in case of a car accident, helping to protect you against false claims.
- Capturing Hit-and-Runs: If another driver damages your vehicle and leaves the scene, your dash cam footage could help identify the culprit.
- Traffic Violations: A dash cam may capture other drivers committing traffic violations, which you could report to authorities.
- Insurance Disputes: Footage can help resolve insurance disputes in your favor.
- Peace of Mind: Dash cams can offer a sense of security and protection while driving.
Additional Considerations
- Commercial Vehicles: There may be additional regulations for dash cams used in commercial vehicles in Tennessee. Consult with an attorney or your fleet management company if you use a dash cam for commercial purposes.
- Obstruction is Subjective: What constitutes a “material obstruction” of a driver’s view can be open to interpretation. Being conservative in terms of placement is always advisable.
- Sharing Footage: Be careful about who you share dash cam footage with and how you share it, especially if it involves other people or potentially sensitive information.
Choosing the Right Dash Cam for Tennessee
Since windshield mounting may be less ideal in Tennessee, consider these features when selecting a dash cam:
- Discreet Design: Choose a model that blends in with your dashboard, minimizing its visual footprint and distraction potential.
- Wide Field of View: A wider field of view compensates for the dashboard placement, ensuring it captures as much of the road ahead as possible.
- Night Vision: High-quality night vision will produce clear footage in low-light conditions, an important safety feature.
- G-Sensor: This feature triggers the camera to automatically save footage in the event of a sudden impact.
- Loop Recording: Dash cams typically record in loops, with the oldest footage being overwritten. Ensure the loop recording length is sufficient to capture relevant incidents.
Other Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use a dash cam to monitor my parked car?
- Yes, but you may need a dash cam with a parking mode feature, which will activate recording based on motion or impacts. Consider power supply options for extended parking use, such as external battery packs or a hardwire kit connected to your car’s electrical system.
- Can the police use my dash cam footage?
- It’s possible. If you’re involved in a serious accident or a crime, police may request your dash cam footage as potential evidence.
- What if I’m pulled over by a police officer for my dash cam placement?
- While it’s designed to be compliant, misunderstandings can occur. Politely explain to the officer that your dash cam is mounted to your dashboard or in the lower corner of the windshield to avoid obstruction. If necessary, refer to the specific Tennessee windshield obstruction laws.
Conclusion
Dash cams offer numerous benefits to Tennessee drivers, but navigating windshield obstruction laws can create some uncertainty. Prioritizing dashboard placement and selecting a dash cam model with discreet design and suitable features will ensure you can use your dash cam wisely and within the bounds of the law.
Sources
- Tennessee Code Annotated § 55-9-107: https://law.justia.com/codes/tennessee/2010/title-55/chapter-9/part-1/55-9-107
- BlackboxMyCar: Are Dash Cams Legal in My Area? Dash Cam Laws in Every US State: https://www.blackboxmycar.com/pages/are-dash-cams-legal-in-my-area-dash-cam-laws-in-every-us-state
- Expert Market: The 2024 Guide To Dash Cam Laws in Every US State: https://www.expertmarket.com/dash-cams/dash-cam-laws-by-state
Disclaimer: This article provides general information on dash cam regulations in Tennessee. It’s not intended to substitute for professional legal advice. If you have specific questions about the legality of your dash cam setup or the use of its footage, consult an attorney.
