Dash cams are becoming increasingly popular among Indiana drivers, providing peace of mind, crucial evidence for insurance claims, and even protection in legal disputes. But before you mount a camera on your windshield or dashboard, it’s essential to understand Indiana’s specific dash cam regulations to avoid fines and ensure your footage is lawful and useful.
Are Dash Cams Legal in Indiana?
Yes, dash cams are fully legal in Indiana. Both private and commercial motorists may use them, but the state has strict rules about how and where they are installed, as well as guidelines for audio recording and privacy considerations.
Mounting and Placement Rules
Windshield Placement: Indiana law allows dash cams to be mounted on the windshield, but their location is tightly regulated. The dash cam must be installed in the bottom corner of the passenger side of the windshield.
Size Limit: The device must not exceed four (4) square inches. Larger devices or those placed elsewhere on the windshield risk being seen as an obstruction to the driver’s view, and could earn you a ticket.
Dashboard Placement: You may also install a dash cam on your dashboard, provided it doesn’t block your view or become a potential safety hazard.
Audio Recording: Indiana’s Consent Laws
One-Party Consent: Indiana is a one-party consent state. This means you may record audio while driving so long as at least one party (including yourself) knows about and consents to the recording. Usually, this covers you as the driver, but for passengers—especially for ride-sharing or commercial use—it’s courteous and sometimes advisable to inform everyone present that recording may occur.
Privacy and Legal Concerns
Public vs. Private Recording: Video recording in public spaces, like roadways, is legal. But dash cam use may cross privacy lines if you record someone without consent in settings where there is a reasonable expectation of privacy, such as private driveways or inside residential property.
Court Admissibility: Dash cam footage can generally be used as legal evidence in Indiana courts, provided it was obtained lawfully and without violating consent requirements.
Key Takeaways for Indiana Drivers
Mount your dash cam only in the lower passenger-side corner of the windshield, and keep its size under 4 square inches.
A dashboard-mounted camera is also allowed, so long as it is non-obstructive.
Audio recording is legal with one-party consent, but let passengers know that they may be recorded to avoid misunderstandings.
Avoid blocking your own view or creating blind spots—improper installation could lead to fines or legal disputes.
Properly installed and used dash cams can help protect your rights after accidents, clarify liability, and strengthen insurance or legal claims.
To stay compliant, always follow the manufacturer’s instructions, respect state law placement and privacy rules, and use your dash cam responsibly on Indiana’s roads.
Sources
[1] https://www.blackboxmycar.com/pages/are-dash-cams-legal-in-my-area-dash-cam-laws-in-every-us-state
[2] https://www.expertmarket.com/dash-cams/dash-cam-laws-by-state
[3] https://www.tuleylaw.com/car-accidents/blog/dash-cams-evidence-accident/
[4] https://matrackinc.com/dash-cam-laws-by-states/
[5] https://facit.ai/insights/dash-cam-laws-by-state
