Dashcam

A dashcam is a compact video camera mounted inside a vehicle — typically on the windshield or dashboard — that continuously records forward-facing footage while the vehicle is operating. Commercial-grade dashcams used in fleets often include a second inward-facing lens that records the driver, GPS integration, G-force detection for crash events, and cloud upload for remote review.

Dashcams have become nearly standard equipment on commercial fleets because they serve multiple purposes simultaneously. They capture crash evidence that can clarify fault in disputed collisions and dramatically reduce insurance costs. They enable driver coaching by letting managers review harsh events and unsafe behavior. And they provide footage that can exonerate fleets of parking and camera violations — for example, demonstrating that a double-parking ticket was issued while the driver was actively loading, or that a red-light ticket was issued for a vehicle that was actually stopped at the line.

For NYC fleets, dashcam footage is increasingly accepted at both PVB and OATH hearings as contest evidence. Clear Plates does not store video itself, but we help fleet managers combine violation records with the corresponding dashcam clips when building contest packages.