If you use your mobility scooter on a frequent basis, it’s almost a certainty that you’ve encountered a near miss, or even an actual collision with another vehicle, pedestrian, or other obstacle at some point. A dash cam can be a vital piece of equipment to keep you safe in the event of a legal claim, police investigation, or in some case, insurance claims.
In this article, we’ll look at your potential options for dash cams for your mobility scooter, whether a car dash cam is usable for your scooter, and other ways to keep you and your mobility scooter safe when out and about.
What Are Dash Cams?
Dash Cams, short for dashboard cameras, are compact video recording devices mounted inside vehicles. They continuously record the view through the vehicle’s front windscreen and sometimes the rear or other windows.
The recorded footage can be invaluable in providing evidence in the event of an accident, theft, or dispute.
Key Concerns When Choosing a Dashcam for Your Mobility Scooter
– Vibrations: Mobility scooters tend to endure more vibrations than cars, especially on uneven surfaces. A dashcam for a mobility scooter must be robust enough to withstand these conditions without affecting video quality – or you risk any footage being completely unwatchable!
– Waterproofing: Given the UK’s unpredictable weather, ensuring your dashcam is waterproof is crucial. It should withstand rain without compromising functionality. Some cameras, such as GoPros, come with waterproof cases – we cover these as an option in the next section.
– Battery Life: Unlike cars, mobility scooters may not always offer an easy way to power electronic devices. Opt for a dashcam with a long battery life or one that can be easily charged on the go.
– Fitting: The design of mobility scooters varies significantly, and not all models with have the capacity to fit your dash cam safely. Ensuring the dashcam fits securely and is positioned to capture a clear field of view is essentia (and a key part of the making your dashcam legal). It should not impede the operation or safety of the scooter.
– Theft: The more visible and easily removable the camera, the higher the risk of theft. Consider dashcams that are discreet or come with quick-detach features for when the scooter is unattended.
Potential Dash Cam Options
If you’ve made the decision to find a dash cam for your mobility scooter, let’s explore a few potential options and whether they’re viable.
If you’ve previously looked to buy one, you might have realised by now that there’s not exactly a booming market for dashcams specifically for mobility scooters – so where can you get an appropriate camera?
Mobility Scooter Reversing Cameras
These cameras are specifically designed to aid mobility scooter users. They provide a wide-angle view of the rear, helping to navigate crowded spaces or reverse safely. Many models come with additional features like parking sensors. They can usually be retrofitted, making them a convenient choice for those with limited neck mobility.
Mobility Insurance
Cover includes:
- Theft, Vandalism & Accidental Damage
- Third Party Liability & Legal Expenses
- Multiple Riders & No Age Limit
- No Hidden Fees & No Excess
Car Dash Cams
While car dash cams are a popular choice for vehicle safety, they may not be the best fit for a mobility scooter. They’re not typically designed to withstand outdoor elements or the vibration levels of scooters.
Plus, their audio and battery features might not translate well to the scooter’s environment.
Action Cameras (e.g., GoPro)
An action camera, like those used on bicycles or helmets, might be a more suitable choice. These cameras are built to endure outdoor activities and can often be waterproof. An option for this could be a bike helmet sport camera that you can attach to the handlebars of your scooter or if you have a higher budget a GoPro is a great option however, these can be quite pricey!
While there might be concerns about audio quality with waterproof casing, creative solutions like modifying the case around the microphone could be explored. Additionally, finding a secure mounting spot is crucial, with the metal tubes under the armrests being a potential location for your mobility scooter.
Another option is to actually wear the camera on your person when out and about. Find out more about one of the top-rated body cameras here.
Equipping your mobility scooter isn’t essential, but it can be a good consideration if you are concerned about your safety when using your mobility scooter. It’s not just about recording potential incidents; it’s about peace of mind.
We do recommend removing the camera from your scooter when you aren’t using it to not only protect it from the elements but also from the risk of theft.
At Surewise, we are committed to the safety of all mobility scooter users. Read more about our Safer Mobility Campaign and how we’re helping to meet that goal.
