Dashcams gain ground as key evidence in insurance claims
Dashcams are becoming essential for South African drivers, helping prevent fraud, prove accident claims, and protect motorists on the road.
WITH increasing road risks and insurance disputes in South Africa, dashcams are emerging as valuable tools for drivers and insurers alike.
According to Momentum Insure, video footage can provide objective evidence, helping to clarify accident circumstances, speed up claims processing, and protect honest motorists.
“A dashcam provides an objective, independent view of the event,” said Funeka Ngewu, executive head of Claims Procurement and Legal at Momentum Insure, noting that clear footage can “provide immediate clarity” and reduce lengthy disputes.
Dashcams are also proving effective in combating fraud and staged accidents, a growing concern on local roads.
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“Video footage is the most effective deterrent against these scams,” explained Ngewu, adding that it can expose falsified or deliberately caused incidents.
In cases of hit-and-run or third-party claims, dashcams with front-and-rear coverage and parking mode can capture key details like licence plates, helping insurers recover costs.
However, Ngewu cautioned that the technology is not a cure-all. “It’s a tool, not a silver bullet,” she said.
“We look at the whole picture, including police reports, witness statements, and vehicle assessments. Footage showing reckless driving could negatively affect a claim.”
She encouraged drivers to use dashcams responsibly by investing in good quality devices, maintaining storage, and respecting privacy laws such as POPIA.
“Ultimately, a dashcam is most effective when paired with responsible driving behaviour,” added Ngewu.
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