A dashboard camera, often abbreviated as a dashcam, is one of the inexpensive little innovations that have sneaked into the motor vehicle industry. But, with most people installing these seemingly useless devices in the hope of capturing a once in a lifetime road experience, they can, in case of accidents, be the centre of your settlement case.
How so? Licensed drivers know that there is more to driving than having both hands on the wheel. You have to check for blind spots, keep all traffic rules in mind, check road signs and adhere to safe driving principles. Unfortunately, not all drivers are always up to this task, and there is a chance that someone will make the wrong decision that leads to an accident. That’s where dashcams prove to be useful.
How do dashcams work?
A dashcam is merely a digital camera fitted onto the windshield or the dashboard of a car. It has a driver’s view of the road, with the latest designs coming with a 360 angle-degree view capturing both the interior and front car views.
These devices are automated and work whenever the ignition is on, uploading all its footage directly onto the cloud, hence no need for physical internal storage. Dashcams capture the events on the road ahead and the car occupant’s behaviour which is essential during a car accident settlement case.
Using dashcam footage in case settlement
Seeing is believing, and no sane attorney can dismiss clear footage with appropriate timestamps from your dashcam. The footage identifies the vehicle that caused the accident and provides detailed accounts of seconds leading to the accident.
Did the offender overtake on a blind spot? Were they overspeeding? All these data can be picked by your dashcam and will be invaluable in front of the jury.
The camera also captures the events that transpired after the accident. For example, if it was a hit and run case, the offending vehicle’s model, color, and registration will be captured in the footage.
Your dashcam footage can hurt your claim
The dashboard camera doesn’t play favourites. The video will also show your behaviour just before the accident. If you were seemingly tired, arguing with someone, playing loud music or using drugs, all would be captured by the camera.
The footage will also capture your role in the accident as well as the aftermath reaction. For instance, violent actions after an accident significantly reduce your claims, especially if you cause physical harm to the other party.
Additionally, your insurance company can use data on the footage, such as poor video quality and grainy audio recording, to discredit your case. This is why you should always have a seasoned car accident attorney by your side when negotiating any car accident settlement.
Get help from a certified car accident attorney
Hakim Law Firm has won millions in settlements for its clients for the past 50 years. If you get involved in a car accident, do not hesitate to contact our experienced car accident attorney on 855-558-8250. They will review your case, dashcam footage and help you build a solid settlement case immediately