How Dashcam Footage Is Changing Car Accident Litigation
In recent years, more drivers have begun using dashcams to document their time on the road. These compact recording devices offer continuous footage of driving conditions, traffic interactions, and moments leading up to an impact. According to a car accident lawyer, dashcam recordings are becoming valuable tools in determining fault and shaping legal arguments after collisions.
Dashcams Offer A New Type Of Evidence
Traditional evidence in car accident cases, like witness statements, police reports, and physical damage, can be incomplete or inconsistent. Witnesses may not remember the incident clearly or may have a different version of events based on perspective. Physical damage may not be able to paint a full picture of the incident due to the possibility that seemingly minor damages can cause major injuries. Police reports, while very thorough and detailed, oftentimes fail to account for all aspects of the accident and take time to file and get copies of. On the other hand, dashcams are able to provide a time-stamped, firsthand view of events that is difficult to dispute. For example, footage can capture whether a traffic light was red or green, how fast a vehicle was traveling, or whether a driver made an illegal turn.
Having this visual proof can significantly impact negotiations with insurers or court proceedings. If the footage supports a driver’s account of the crash, it can speed up claims resolution or even prevent litigation. Conversely, it may also reveal driver error, complicating the claim.
Legal Considerations When Using Dashcam Footage
While dashcam evidence can be persuasive, its use is not without limits. State laws vary regarding the admissibility of such recordings in court. In some jurisdictions, all parties involved must be aware that they are being recorded for the footage to be used legally. Courts may also question the authenticity of edited or incomplete clips.
Drivers should retain the entire uncut segment from a few minutes before and after the incident to avoid claims of manipulation. Additionally, keeping the recording device in proper working condition and storing files securely can strengthen the credibility of the footage.
Insurance Companies Are Taking Notice
Insurers increasingly rely on dashcam footage when assessing claims. Some carriers even offer policy discounts to drivers who regularly use these devices. In disputes involving motor vehicle accidents, insurers may request access to any available video to corroborate or challenge a claimant’s narrative.
However, dashcam footage can also backfire. If the recording shows distracted driving, speeding, or failure to signal, it could be used by the opposing party to shift blame. Drivers should be mindful that once footage exists, it may be subject to discovery and must be shared during legal proceedings.
Preparing For Litigation With Digital Evidence
For those considering litigation, dashcam footage can be a strategic asset or liability. Attorneys may use the material to reconstruct the timeline of events, identify third-party negligence, or illustrate hazardous conditions. Still, it should be part of a broader evidence strategy that includes documentation of injuries, vehicle damage, and post-accident behavior.
Our friends at Disparti Law Group say that drivers who frequently encounter high-traffic areas, complex intersections, or delivery routes may especially benefit from using a dashcam. The presence of recorded footage alone can deter dishonest claims or conflicting testimony. Speak with a local attorney to learn more.