They've shown a few of these videos on Tosh.0. Guys pulling over hopping out of their vehicles, each sizing up the others weapons, and then backing down[1]. Amusing, but frightening at the same time.

[1] http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-s0XH5YA2mo

It's mostly for insurance fraud and accident culpability. Intentionally backing into someone's car to try to make it look like they ran into you and other hijinx aren't that uncommon in Russia. Also, accidents are more common, and the justice system isn't exactly the best, so it helps to have a record of what actually happened.

That, or protect against insurance fraud.

Hah, just go on youtube and search for "Russian driving".

Those dash cams have been there for years, they're the gift that keeps on giving!