If you are an avid cyclist, you undoubtedly have had some near misses with cars approaching from behind you. This problem may become worse in the next few years, as comparatively silent electric vehicles become more common on California’s roadways. Mounting a rear camera to your bike may keep you safe.

Not only may a rear-facing camera help you in a future accident claim, but it also allows you to capture footage from your rides. If you are ready to invest in a rear camera for your bicycle, the following tips may help you choose the right one.

Think about your riding habits

The rear-facing cameras on the market today have wildly different visual fields. If you mostly ride on trails or in bike lanes, choosing a camera that offers a longer and narrower field may make sense. On the other hand, if you ride in traffic, you may want a camera that captures a broader range.

Choose the perfect placement

If you want to know when vehicles are approaching your bike, you may want to buy a camera that has a mountable video screen. Some screens mount directly onto the handlebars, while others have a column that raises them closer to your eyes. Either way, glancing at the screen should feel natural to you.

Check recording length

Your video footage may not do you much good if it disappears quickly. Consequently, when choosing your camera, research recording length. Also, determine how easy it is to download and view the footage you have recorded.

Ultimately, the effort you put into choosing your rear-facing camera is likely to pay off, as it may boost your chances of receiving financial compensation from a bad driver who collides with you and your bike.