Whether you’re cruising along the Kamehameha Highway or navigating the busy streets of Honolulu, driving in Hawai’i is always an adventure.
The unpredictable traffic, tourist drivers, and the occasional fender benders are causing many people to turn to dash cams for an extra layer of protection. But, before you install one, you might wonder: Are dash cams legal in Hawai’i?
Here are some important rules to keep in mind.
Hawai’i’s Dash Cam Laws
While Hawai’i doesn’t have a specific law that bans dash cams, there are a couple of laws that could affect how you use one. The two biggest things to watch out for are where you mount it and whether you’re recording audio.
Hawai’i has strict laws about keeping your windshield clear. According to HRS §291-21.5, you cannot drive with anything on your windshield that obstructs your view.
If you put a dash cam right in the middle of your windshield, you could technically get a ticket. Where can you place a dash cam to stay on the right side of the law? You can put it behind your rearview mirror, on your dashboard, or anywhere that doesn’t block your vision.
Along with that, there are recording laws. Hawai’i is a one-party consent state under HRS §803-42.
That means that at least one person in a conversation needs to agree to be recorded. If you’re the only one speaking in your car, you’re good. However, if your dash cam records a person’s voice without their knowledge, you could be breaking the law.
Why Use a Dash Cam in Hawai’i?
Now that you know these cameras are legal, why would you want one?
If you’ve ever been in a fender bender, you know that insurance companies love to go back and forth about who was at fault. A dash cam takes the guesswork out of it. If someone cuts you off or rear-ends you, you’ve got hard evidence to back up your side of the story.
This can be especially helpful in cases where the other driver tries to shift the blame or if there are no witnesses. Without clear proof, you could end up paying for damages that aren’t your fault.
Unfortunately, some people try to stage accidents or exaggerate damages to get a bigger insurance payout. A dash cam helps protect you from being scammed by recording exactly what happened.
This happens in Hawai’i, where rental cars are common, and scammers target tourists who may not be familiar with local laws. If someone suddenly slams on their brakes in front of you or claims an injury that didn’t happen, your dash cam footage can prove the truth and protect you from fraudulent claims.
Some dash cams come with parking modes. With that, you can record if someone hits your car while parked. This is great in parking lots where dings and hit-and-runs are common. If someone scrapes your bumper and drives off, your dash cam could capture their license plate, giving you the evidence you need to file a claim or report it to the police.
So, are dash cams legal in Hawai’i?
Yes, as long as you follow the rules. If you install your dash cam correctly and use it in a responsible manner, it can be a great tool to protect yourself on the road. You want to make sure you’re not blocking your windshield and respect audio recording laws.
Also, if you’ve been involved in a motor vehicle accident, and your dash cam captured it, you might have solid evidence to seek compensation from the liable party. If you’d like to discuss your potential case, contact Wayne Parsons Law Office today.