Dashcams - catching on in U.S.?

I've been wondering how many readers have installed a dashcam in their cars? Have you?

I spoke with a fellow Kia Soul owner last week, after I noticed one installed in his car. He said it has front- and rear-facing cameras and that it saved his bacon after his car was rear-ended. He has installed one in each family member's car.

Have you watched any of the dashcam videos on YouTube.com? I don't mean the police chases; I mean the recordings from private vehicles.

Does anyone have a recommend for a brand and model of dashcam that works particularly well for you?

Or one to definitely avoid?

What's an appropriate price-range for a reliable dashcam?