While they might feel like a luxury, dash cams can save you thousands of dollars after a crash. The police and insurance adjusters are pretty good at determining who is at fault, but having video evidence of the situation can make all the difference if there’s any doubt. Dash cams are becoming more advanced, offering incredible video quality and storage capabilities. The Thinkware U3000 is a flagship camera system with a rearview option and 4K video capture for the front. We’re giving away a U3000 dash cam system with a rear camera system and will draw one lucky winner at the end of September 2023.

All you have to do to enter is follow our Instagram and Facebook pages and tag a friend on Instagram! At the end of September, we’ll randomly draw names and send the dash cam straight to the winner’s door. 

The Thinkware U3000 front camera offers 60 FPS and 4K UHD filming. There’s 64 GB of storage, and the system works with both Windows and Mac operating systems. Thinkware equipped GPS, MP4 video formats, motion detection, a G-sensor, low-light functionality, and GPS positioning. 

When it’s in parking mode, the Thinkware dash cam monitors motion and impacts and can activate automatically to capture the action. Using the free smartphone app, you can also activate the camera and view the scene around your vehicle from anywhere at any time. A built-in radar helps monitor the area and triggers the camera to capture scenes up to ten seconds before and after an event.

Thinkware equipped night vision that brings clear footage in low-light situations. It offers incredible video quality and detail at night, almost like a spotlight behind the camera, illuminating the way ahead. The rear camera offers 2K video quality, and you can adjust the camera settings to get the best picture possible, as it’s just as important to monitor the rear of the vehicle.

One of the most impressive features that the Thinkware dash cam offers is advanced driver assist functionality. Once installed, the U3000 brings forward and rear collision warnings, lane departure warnings, and a front vehicle departure warning system. While it doesn’t interface with your vehicle’s hardware like a factory system would, the U3000 can bring a layer of support and alertness that many vehicles lack.

Beyond viewing parked camera views from a smartphone, the app brings several connected features that make the Thinkware dash cam much more helpful in more situations. Users can send emergency messages, review vehicle status and driving history, and receive impact notifications – perfect for parents with new drivers at home.

Installation is pretty straightforward, and all the necessary components are in the box. That said, hard wiring is required to access all features. The system works in vehicles of all types, though it’s important to check installation manuals for vehicles with existing safety systems built into the windshield. 

Are dash cams worth it?

It’s hard to recommend spending money on another gadget with wires and apps, but dash cams can be worth their weight in gold. There are so many variables that impact the course of a crash, and it’s not always clear who was at fault. Having a dash cam running will show the events leading up to and immediately following a collision and can help prove your innocence if there’s a question of fault. The Thinkware U3000’s rear camera adds an extra layer of security, showing a clear scene of the activity behind your vehicle.

At the same time, dash cams sometimes catch the everyday oddities that happen in our daily commutes. If you’ve spent any time on the internet in the last few years, you’ll know that funny, scary, and shocking dash camera footage is everywhere. You might not have an interest in sharing your footage, but you’ll find a vibrant and hilarious community if you do.

What are the downsides of having a dash cam?

Despite their usefulness, dash cams aren’t all puppies and roses for everyone. The Thinkware dash cam makes installation easy, but there can be some speedbumps, especially if you’re looking at a hardwire installation. If you’re unsure, it’s best to rely on a professional automotive installer to do the hardwiring, but you can plug and play using the 12-volt adapter if that’s a problem. Additionally, some people may find the additional cords and wiring to be annoying if they’re unable to hide them during the installation.

Distraction can be one of the most significant issues with dash cams, as it’s tempting to fiddle with settings or view captured footage. Some drivers may also be distracted by the camera itself, which adds a noticeable chunk of hardware to the vehicle’s windshield. It’s possible to hide the unit high up on the glass to keep it out of the way, but proper installation is vital to keeping the vehicle cabin distraction-free.

Finally, it’s important to remember that while your dash cam can protect you after a crash, it can also incriminate you. The camera captures other drivers’ bad behavior, which is great, but it also captures your lousy behavior. Keep that in mind, and don’t let the camera make you believe you’re legally invincible.

Do insurance companies use dash cam footage?

Yes, insurance companies generally view dash camera footage as reliable evidence after a crash. Footage is also admissible in courts, though the specific admissibility and rules around how the camera data is used may vary between states.

Are dash cameras legal in every state?

Yes, you can legally install and use dash cameras in any state. That said, you’ll want to check local laws on capturing footage and audio of other people without consent. The audio portion is especially important to keep you out of trouble, as some states have specific rules on recording. Some states have radar detector bans, so there could be some confusion if an officer sees the camera hardware, but dash cameras are legal even where radar detectors aren’t. 

If you’re considering a new dash cam, the Thinkware U3000 is a great choice, especially if you win it in our giveaway. At the same time, you can get an excellent dash camera with plenty of compelling features for a surprisingly small amount of money. A basic dash camera can do the trick if you just want something for extra protection, so do your research and get to filming.