Dash cams are legal and widely used in Wisconsin, but there are specific regulations regarding where and how they can be installed, as well as rules about recording audio.
Mounting Requirements
- Legal Placement: Dash cams are permitted in Wisconsin, but they must be mounted behind the rearview mirror and must not obstruct the driver’s view of the road.
- Windshield Restrictions:Â You cannot mount a dash cam anywhere on the windshield except directly behind the rearview mirror. The device should not be placed in areas cleaned by the windshield wipers, as this could block your view.
- Dashboard Option:Â Mounting the dash cam on the dashboard is also allowed and is often the recommended alternative to avoid any risk of obstruction.
Audio Recording Laws
- Single-Party Consent: Wisconsin is a single-party consent state for audio recordings. This means you can legally record audio in your vehicle as long as at least one person involved in the conversation (which can be you) consents to the recording.
- Caution: If you record conversations inside your car involving people who are unaware of the recording, you are generally within your rights, but it’s best practice to inform passengers, especially if you plan to use the audio as evidence.
Use of Dash Cam Footage
- Admissible in Court:Â Dash cam footage is considered valid evidence in Wisconsin courts if the camera was installed according to the regulations and the footage is relevant to the case.
- Accident Evidence:Â Dash cams can be invaluable in car accident cases, helping to establish fault, document road conditions, and provide details about the vehicles and drivers involved.
Best Practices
- Do not block your view:Â Always ensure the dash cam does not obstruct your field of vision or the area cleaned by your windshield wipers.
- Mount behind the rearview mirror:Â This is the safest and most compliant location.
- Inform passengers:Â While not legally required, informing passengers about audio recording is courteous and can avoid disputes.
- Check for updates:Â Laws can change, so periodically check Wisconsin DOT or legal resources for the latest regulations.
Table: Wisconsin Dash Cam Laws
| Requirement | Regulation |
|---|---|
| Dash cam legality | Legal |
| Mounting location | Behind rearview mirror or on dashboard |
| Windshield placement | Only behind rearview mirror; not in wiper-cleaned areas |
| Audio recording | Single-party consent required |
| Use as evidence | Permitted if legally installed and relevant |
Dash cams are legal in Wisconsin, but must be installed behind the rearview mirror or on the dashboard, without obstructing the driver’s view or the area cleaned by windshield wipers. Audio recording is allowed with single-party consent. Properly installed dash cams can provide valuable evidence in accidents and other incidents on the road.
Sources
[1] https://www.ddpai.com/blog/dash-cam-laws/
[2] https://www.mysclaw.com/can-i-use-dash-cam-footage-for-my-wisconsin-car-accident-case/
[3] https://www.expertmarket.com/dash-cams/dash-cam-laws-by-state
[4] https://mylolowcountry.com/usa-laws/understanding-dash-cam-regulations-in-wisconsin/
[5] https://matrackinc.com/dash-cam-laws-by-states/