If you’re a bicyclist who enjoys riding alone or in remote areas that are largely free of other humans, it’s crucial to be as safe as possible. Video cameras are becoming an increasingly common and easy-to-use piece of equipment for cyclists.
While they can’t prevent a crash, cameras can provide evidence of what happened that may be necessary if there are no witnesses. They can also help identify an at-fault driver who decides to leave the scene so that they can be held accountable.
Helmet and bike cameras have become more affordable than they used to be. They’re also lighter and smaller, so they won’t weigh you down or distract you from your ride.
What can these cameras record?
You can mount a camera to your helmet as well as to both the front and back of your bike for maximum coverage of anything that might happen. This can also help if you become separated from your bike in a collision.
It’s a good idea to get a camera that captures a wide angle. Often, cars don’t strike bikes from directly behind them. If a car sideswipes you and keeps going, the camera can get a video of what happened, what the vehicle looked like and even the license plate.
Many cyclists find that having a visible camera on their helmets helps prevent potentially dangerous incidents of road rage. A driver who might be prepared to go after you is likely to think twice if they see a GoPro mounted to your helmet recording the whole thing.
If you’ve been injured in a collision while biking, your camera or those of a riding partner can provide valuable evidence that could result in criminal charges for the driver and help you get the compensation you need to deal with medical costs and other expenses and damages.
