Although it is allowed to utilize dash cams in Alabama, there are stringent rules on where they can be installed. Since state law forbids obstructing a driver’s unobstructed view of the highway, mounting a dash cam on the windshield is forbidden.
No sign or material that could hinder the driver’s eyesight may be placed on a vehicle’s front windshield or windows, according Alabama Code section 32-5-215.
Rather, dash cams need to be positioned on the dashboard so that they don’t obstruct the driver’s view of the road. Accordingly, Alabama prohibits dash cams that are suction-installed and typically mounted on windshields.
Consent and Audio Recording
When it comes to audio recording, Alabama has strict regulations. Every individual being recorded must consent for the recording to occur since the state has an all-party consent statute. This holds true for any audio that a dash cam inside a car records.
It is essential to notify every passenger that audio recording is occurring and get their permission before beginning the recording in order to abide by this regulation. If you don’t, you can face legal repercussions.
Considerations for Privacy
Dash cams are usually acceptable in public areas, however there are privacy regulations to take into account. It is against the law in Alabama to eavesdrop or take video while trespassing in a private area.
This implies that it might be illegal in some states to use a dash cam to surreptitiously film someone’s activity on private land.
Nonetheless, it is permitted to shoot video in public areas. It’s critical to pay attention to your surroundings and make sure that no one’s privacy is being violated by your dash cam.
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Acceptability of Video
If dash cam film is legitimately collected and does not violate privacy rules, it is typically admissible in Alabama courts. In criminal trials, auto accident cases, or police traffic stops, this video can be a useful piece of evidence.
In the event that your dash cam footage is subpoenaed as evidence in a court case, you could have to provide it over. If you have been ordered to preserve or submit dash cam footage, it is illegal to destroy it.
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Recent Changes in the Law
The public release of dash and body camera footage from law enforcement has been discussed in the Alabama legislature as of February 2025.
A law that would make these recordings public records and mandate that they be made available to the public within 30 days of a request was introduced. Nevertheless, the Senate Judiciary Committee rejected this bill.
The current law, which was passed in 2023, permits the subject of the video or their representative to be shown dash or body camera footage. This does not, however, make the video public knowledge.
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Alabama’s Best Practices for Dash Cam Use
- Instead of mounting the dash cam on the windshield, mount it on the dashboard.
- Make sure the driver’s perspective is not obscured by the camera.
- Get the consent of every passenger by informing them about the audio recording.
- To prevent invasions of privacy, only record in public areas.
- If video is needed for court proceedings, be ready to provide it.
- Keep up with any modifications to the rules and regulations pertaining to dash cams.
Drivers can legally and successfully utilize dash cams to safeguard their rights and guarantee road safety by adhering to these rules and remaining current with Alabama’s dash cam regulations.
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