Having a rear dashboard camera is quite common nowadays. Its main purpose is to provide video footage in case of an accident. If you have one, you must have thought about using it as a backup camera. Are you considering installing a dashboard camera at the back of the car? Have a clear idea of its performance.
What is a Rear Dashboard Camera and a Backup Camera?
The increasing rate of car accidents and the lack of evidence to prove fault for the cause of the accident have led many manufacturers to equip cars with a rear dashboard camera. This camera captures what happens behind the car, providing a close-up view of the traffic and other vehicles around you. They can help you identify the cause of your accident and protect you from potential lawsuits from your insurance company.
On the other hand, a backup or car reverse camera is a device that allows the driver to see what is behind the vehicle. You will typically find them on or behind the license plate or above the car’s bumper. The live feed will be displayed on a screen in the dashboard or the main unit. You can adjust the video feed in terms of angle and distance to allow for optimal visibility.
Can I Use the Dash Cam as a Backup Camera?
The clear and simple answer is “yes.” You can use the dashboard camera to see what is behind the vehicle. However, some drawbacks make this option impractical.
Small Camera Focus
Using dashboard cameras for rear navigation is not practical. Dashboard cameras are generally small and do not provide enough detail to be used for rearview visibility. Backup cameras are much larger and more effective at offering a clear view behind your car.
Reversed Footage
A dashboard camera cannot horizontally reverse the rear video feed. Without this feature, the left and right views will be reversed for all footage. So, when looking behind your vehicle, everything is reversed. For example, if you were to turn right, the dashboard camera would display a left turn. If you were to turn left, the dashboard camera would show a right turn.
Limited Camera Angles
The backup camera is an important accessory when driving. It helps prevent accidents by letting you know when someone is in your blind spot. The backup camera is a device mounted at the rear of the car that provides a clear view of what is behind the vehicle. The idea is to help drivers avoid hitting other cars, pedestrians, and animals on the road.
However, a dashboard camera cannot provide such functionality due to its limited visibility from certain angles. It does not capture the full view of what is behind you. So, using it in place of a backup camera means compromising road safety.
Conclusion
Dashboard cameras are not designed to be used as backup cameras, even if they can function as such in some cases. They cannot provide drivers with the necessary information to get out of tight parking spots or reverse in confined spaces in general.