Dashcams or cameras may be small and inconspicuous, but they have become indispensable tools for vehicle owners. Mounted on dashboards, they record events that transpire on the road. In recent years, they have gained importance in the context of car accidents.
A dashcam is a small video camera that can face the front of the vehicle to record where the driver is going and their actions or be placed in the rear to record the passengers’ actions. Law enforcement dashcams usually face the front.
Most newer cars and trucks have parking assist and backup cameras that serve different purposes than dashcams. Those help drivers remain aware of their surroundings but do not provide evidence. They also record their old files; some do not save video footage.
Dashcams are purchased separately and easily mounted in vehicles. They can provide liability protection and are, therefore, an option worth considering because a car accident lawyer might be able to use its footage as evidence to support your claim.
Dashcam footage is unbiased and objective, making it usable as evidence. It can show that another driver was at fault – or, if a hit-and-run driver flees an accident scene, that camera can record the license plate and make and model of the vehicle. You can also benefit from dashcam evidence when making insurance claims. The footage helps insurance adjusters assess what happened objectively, expediting the claims process. That might reduce the chances of having a claim delayed or denied. Dashcams can also prevent insurance fraud.
Do Dashcams Help Car Accident Investigations?
When accidents occur, law enforcement agencies often conduct investigations to enforce traffic laws and determine liability. Dashcam footage can help them reconstruct the sequence of events accurately. Car accident lawyers rely on dashcam footage during evidence-gathering phases; some may use this proof in court cases.
Are Dashcams Legal in Pennsylvania?
Dashcams are legal in all states, including Pennsylvania. There are certain regulations to be aware of, however. In PA, it is illegal to attach them to driver windows and windshields; if the camera has audio recording capabilities, you should get permission from your passengers before using that feature.
As technology advances, the role of dashcams is likely to evolve, further enhancing their impact on car accident cases. Investing in one can safeguard your interests in the event of a crash and create a safer, more accountable driving environment.
If you are unsure about purchasing and installing a dashcam, the potential benefits might be worth it. The prices range from about $40 to $150, so it does not have to be a significant investment. If you get into an accident caused by another driver or another driver claims you were responsible, that footage could be invaluable.
Contact a West Chester Car Accident Lawyer at Eckell Sparks About Using Your Dashcam for Evidence
It is vital to use every possible source of evidence, and dashcam footage has helped many victims. For more information, contact an experienced West Chester car accident lawyer at Eckell, Sparks, Levy, Auerbach, Monte, Sloane, Matthews & Auslander, P.C. Complete our online form or call 610-565-3701 today. Located in Media and West Chester, Pennsylvania, we serve clients in Delaware County, Chester County, and Montgomery County.