In recent years, the use of dashboard cameras, commonly known as dashcams, has grown exponentially. These compact devices are mounted on a vehicle's dashboard or windshield and continuously record the view through the vehicle's front or rear windshield, and sometimes other windows. The popularity of dashcams stems from their ability to provide real-time video evidence in various situations, including car accidents.
Here, we will consider the increasing use of dashcam footage in car accident investigations and its significant impact on Pennsylvania accident claims and lawsuits.
Why Dashcams Are So Popular
Dashcams have become more affordable and accessible, leading to their widespread adoption by everyday motorists, rideshare drivers, commercial vehicle operators, and law enforcement agencies. The primary reason for their popularity is the peace of mind they offer by providing an unbiased, objective record of events. Whether it's capturing the scenic beauty of a road trip or documenting an unexpected event on the road, dashcams serve multiple purposes. Their most crucial role, perhaps, is in providing evidence during car accident investigations.
Dashcam footage can be used in car accident investigations in various ways:
- Determining Fault: One of the most significant challenges in car accident cases is determining who was at fault. Dashcam footage can provide clear evidence of the events leading up to and during the accident. It can show if a driver ran a red light, was speeding, or made an illegal turn. This visual proof can be instrumental in establishing liability.
- Supporting or Refuting Claims: In some cases, drivers may provide conflicting accounts of an accident. Dashcam footage can corroborate or refute these claims, helping to clarify what actually happened. This can be particularly useful in cases where there are no witnesses or when witness statements are inconsistent.
- Capturing Hit-and-Run Incidents: Dashcams can be invaluable in hit-and-run accidents. They can capture the fleeing vehicle’s license plate, make, and model, which can be crucial for identifying the responsible party and holding them accountable.
- Providing Context: Beyond the immediate moment of impact, dashcam footage can offer context about the driving conditions, traffic, weather, and the behavior of other road users. This additional information can help paint a complete picture of the incident.
Proper storage and retrieval of dashcam footage are essential. Footage should be backed up and stored securely to prevent it from being lost or damaged. The footage should also be easily accessible in case it needs to be presented as evidence.
Is Dashcam Footage Admissible in Court?
While dashcam footage can be extremely helpful, there are several legal considerations to keep in mind. For dashcam footage to be admissible in court, it must meet certain criteria. The footage must be clear, relevant to the case, and must not have been tampered with. Additionally, the dashcam must have been legally installed and used.
What About Privacy Concerns?
In Pennsylvania, it is legal to record video in public spaces where there is no reasonable expectation of privacy. However, recording audio may require consent, as Pennsylvania is a two-party consent state. This means that all parties being recorded must agree to the audio recording. Ensuring your dashcam complies with these regulations is crucial to avoid potential legal issues.
How Dashcam Footage May Impact Your Case
Dashcam footage can significantly strengthen your Pennsylvania car accident claim by providing clear, objective evidence. This can be particularly beneficial in cases where the other party disputes your account of the accident. Strong evidence can lead to a quicker resolution and may increase the likelihood of a favorable outcome. What’s more, knowing that the accident was recorded can discourage dishonest claims and promote honesty in negotiations.
Insurance companies often rely on the available evidence to determine fault and assess claims. Dashcam footage can expedite this process by providing undeniable proof of what occurred. This can lead to faster claim approvals and may even prevent your insurance premiums from increasing unfairly.
Let’s consider two made-up examples of dashcam footage being used to influence the outcome of an auto accident claim. In the first example, a driver was rear-ended at a stoplight. The at-fault driver claimed that the victim had suddenly stopped without warning. However, dashcam footage showed that the victim had been stationary for several seconds before the collision, proving that the at-fault driver had not been paying attention. The footage helped the victim secure a fair settlement from the insurance company.
In the second example, a driver was accused of running a red light and causing an accident. The driver insisted that the light was green when they entered the intersection. Dashcam footage confirmed the driver’s account, showing that the light had indeed been green. This evidence led to the dismissal of the ticket and supported the driver’s claim in the ensuing insurance dispute.
Tips for Using a Dashcam
If you’re interested in using a dashcam, here are a few helpful tips:
- Invest in a high-quality dashcam with good resolution, night vision, and a wide field of view. Features like GPS and G-sensors can also be beneficial.
- Ensure your dashcam is installed correctly to capture the best possible footage. Avoid obstructing your view and make sure the camera is securely mounted.
- Check your dashcam regularly to make sure it is functioning properly. Replace memory cards as needed and keep the lens clean for clear recordings.
- Familiarize yourself with local laws regarding dashcam use and ensure you are in compliance, particularly concerning audio recording.
- Regularly back up your dashcam footage to a secure location. In the event of an accident, having immediate access to the footage can be crucial.
Dashcam footage can be an invaluable tool, providing clear and objective evidence that can significantly impact the outcome of your car accident case. For more information or for legal assistance after a crash, do not wait to reach out to Handler, Henning & Rosenberg LLC. We have fought for Pennsylvania’s injured for more than 100 years and are standing by to see how we can help you.
Call (888) 498-3023 to speak with a Pennsylvania car accident lawyer about your case.