Bill > S04397

This bill establishes a comprehensive framework for dashboard cameras in motor vehicles, primarily focusing on insurance incentives and regulatory requirements. The legislation mandates a 5% reduction in auto insurance premiums for non-commercial passenger vehicles equipped with an operating dashboard camera that meets specific standards set by the commissioner of motor vehicles. Insurers can establish their own certification processes for proving dashboard camera installation, and they are required to review dashboard camera images during claims settlements. The bill introduces civil penalties for false certification of dashboard camera installation, allowing insurers to impose a penalty equal to the premium reduction if an insured falsely claims to have a functioning camera. During annual vehicle safety inspections, certified inspectors must now verify the presence and operational status of dashboard cameras, noting their condition on inspection certificates. The commissioner of motor vehicles is tasked with establishing standards for dashboard camera size, location, and use, and may maintain an approved list of cameras. Additionally, the bill makes dashboard camera images admissible as evidence in both civil and criminal legal proceedings, providing a legal mechanism for using these recordings as proof of events. The act will take effect on the first day of January following its passage, applying to all insurance policies issued, renewed, or modified after that date.

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https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S4397