Dash cams are legal in Tennessee, but there are specific rules regarding their placement and use. Here’s a comprehensive overview of the current regulations:
Mounting and Placement
- Dashboard Only: In Tennessee, dash cams must be mounted on the dashboard, not on the windshield or any other area that could obstruct the driver’s view.
- Obstruction Prohibited: The primary concern is driver visibility. Any device, including dash cams, that blocks or reduces the operator’s clear view through the windshield is not permitted.
- No Windshield Mounting: Mounting a dash cam on the windshield is specifically prohibited under Tennessee law.
Recording Laws
- Video Recording: Recording video with a dash cam on public roads is legal and generally does not raise privacy concerns, as there is no expectation of privacy in public spaces.
- Audio Recording – One-Party Consent: Tennessee is a one-party consent state for audio recordings. This means you can record audio in your vehicle as long as at least one person in the conversation (which can be you) consents to the recording.
Dash Cam Footage in Legal Proceedings
- Admissibility in Court: Dash cam footage is typically admissible in Tennessee courts, provided it is relevant to the case. Such footage can be requested during the discovery phase of a trial.
- Evidence Handling: Footage must be properly preserved and shared according to legal discovery rules if it is to be used as evidence.
Table: Tennessee Dash Cam Laws
| Aspect | Regulation in Tennessee |
|---|---|
| Legality | Dash cams are legal |
| Mounting location | Dashboard only; windshield mounting is prohibited |
| Driver visibility | Must not obstruct the driver’s view |
| Audio recording | One-party consent required |
| Use in court | Admissible if relevant and properly disclosed |
Key Takeaways
- Legal to Own and Use: You are allowed to install and use a dash cam in Tennessee.
- Mounting Restrictions: Always mount your dash cam on the dashboard to avoid fines or legal issues related to obstruction of view.
- Audio Consent: If your dash cam records audio, you must comply with Tennessee’s one-party consent law.
- Court Use: Dash cam footage can be valuable evidence in legal disputes if handled correctly.
Dash cams are fully legal in Tennessee as long as they are mounted on the dashboard and do not obstruct your view. Recording audio is permitted with one-party consent, and footage is generally admissible in court if relevant.
Sources
[1] https://www.nashvilletnlaw.com/is-dash-cam-footage-used-in-trial/
[2] https://howe.law/is-dashcam-footage-admissible-in-a-car-accident-lawsuit-in-tennessee/
[3] https://nextbase.com/hub/are-dash-cams-legal/
[4] https://www.ddpai.com/blog/dash-cam-laws/
[5] https://facit.ai/insights/dash-cam-laws-by-state