Across the United States, staged crashes, road-rage incidents, and hit-and-run damage are on the rise. Unfortunately, if you get sideswiped, brake-checked, or bumped, you have little legal recourse if you can't prove what happened.

This is where a dash camera comes in handy. In recent years the category has evolved from a niche gadget to an essential everyday driving tool. The primary value of a dashcam is simple: It provides evidence that both law enforcement and insurance companies can use in deciding your case.

In case you haven't seen one for a while, modern dashcams have advanced far beyond the single-lens models of the past. One affordable option I recommend is the VIOFO A329S 3CH dashcam.

It features a true 4K front camera, rear camera, and a infrared fish-eye cabin camera with a 210-degree ultra-wide view -- sufficient coverage to ensure that everything from road collisions to interior activity is captured in detail.

The Sony STARVIS 2 sensors under the hood allow the A329S to deliver sharp, balanced footage in both bright daylight and low-light conditions. The cabin camera includes four infrared LEDs, enabling clear recording even at night — a feature especially valuable for rideshare drivers or anyone frequently on the road after dark.

Other advanced features include Wi-Fi 6 for fast file transfers, hybrid parking surveillance with impact detection, support for external SSD storage up to 4TB, a built-in GPS logger, CPL filter, and Bluetooth remote.

Taken together, these tools make it more than a camera — they provide a comprehensive security system for your vehicle. .

At under $500, the dashcam provides protection that often outweighs its cost. Minor parking lot dents or fender benders can cost $1,000 or more to repair, and insurance disputes can increase premiums for years. For families, drivers, or businesses, dash cameras offer peace of mind and a financial safeguard.

Check out the video review for more on the VIOFO A329S 3CH:

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