Yes, dash cams are legal to use in Oklahoma. They are commonly used for documenting accidents, protecting against fraudulent claims, and providing evidence in legal disputes.
Where Can You Mount a Dash Cam?
- Windshield Mounting:
It is illegal to mount a dash cam directly on your windshield in Oklahoma. State law prohibits placing any object, including dash cams, on the windshield if it obstructs the driver’s clear view of the road. - Dashboard Mounting:
Dash cams must be mounted on the dashboard or in another location that does not obstruct the driver’s view. Proper placement is crucial to avoid tickets and ensure the footage is admissible in court.
“You cannot legally install [a dash cam] on your windshield… Most people choose to install the camera on the dash itself. While this is permissible under Oklahoma law, you must ensure that the camera does not obstruct any portion of the driver’s view.”
Admissibility of Dash Cam Footage
- Court Use:
Dash cam footage is admissible in Oklahoma courts, provided it is relevant and can be authenticated by someone with personal knowledge of the recording-usually the vehicle owner or dash cam installer. - Evidence Standards:
The footage must meet the standards of relevance under Section 2401 of the Oklahoma Evidence Code, meaning it must make a fact more or less probable in a legal dispute.
Audio Recording Laws
- One-Party Consent:
Oklahoma is a one-party consent state for audio recordings. This means you can record audio in your vehicle as long as you are a party to the conversation or have the consent of one participant.
Penalties for Improper Installation
- Obstructed View:
If your dash cam is mounted on the windshield or otherwise obstructs your view, law enforcement can pull you over and issue a citation. You may be required to remove the device, and improper installation could also affect the admissibility of footage in court.
Table
| Regulation Area | Oklahoma Law/Guidance |
|---|---|
| Dash cam legality | Legal to use |
| Windshield mounting | Illegal-cannot obstruct driver’s view |
| Dashboard mounting | Legal-must not obstruct driver’s view |
| Audio recording | One-party consent required |
| Court admissibility | Must be relevant and authenticated |
| Penalties | Ticket for obstructed view, possible removal required |
Best Practices
- Always mount your dash cam on the dashboard, low enough to avoid obstructing your view.
- Ensure the device does not block any part of your windshield.
- If recording audio, remember that only one party (you) needs to consent.
- Be prepared to authenticate your footage in court if needed.
Dash cams are legal in Oklahoma, but you must mount them on the dashboard-not the windshield-and ensure they do not block your view. Audio recording is permitted with one-party consent. Properly installed and authenticated dash cam footage is admissible in court and can be a valuable tool in legal and insurance matters.
Sources
[1] https://parrishdevaughn.com/blog/should-i-get-a-dashcam-for-my-vehicle/
[2] https://www.okinjuryguy.com/blog/should-you-have-a-dashcam
[3] https://gpstrackit.com/blog/what-are-the-dashcam-regulations-in-each-state/
[4] https://www.ddpai.com/blog/dash-cam-laws/
[5] https://pdtulsalaw.com/blog/utilizing-dash-cam-footage-in-personal-injury-cases-in-oklahoma/
