How Dashcam Footage Can Be a Game-Changer in Your Hanover Car Accident Case

Car accidents can be stressful and confusing experiences. In the aftermath, memories can be hazy, and witnesses may be unreliable. Fortunately, we have technology that can provide valuable evidence in accident disputes: the humble dashcam.

This small camera mounted on your dashboard can capture crucial moments leading up to, during, and after a collision. Dashcam footage can be a powerful tool for car accident victims, potentially strengthening your case and securing the compensation you deserve.

Here’s a deeper dive into how dashcam footage can be a game-changer in your Hanover car accident case:

• Demonstrating reckless driving: Dashcam footage can expose reckless behavior by other drivers, such as speeding, running red lights, unsafe lane changes, or distracted driving (e.g., using a phone). This clear visual evidence can significantly bolster your case if the other party attempts to shift blame.
• Hit-and-run scenarios: If you’re involved in a hit-and-run accident where the at-fault driver flees the scene, dashcam footage can be invaluable. The video can capture the license plate, vehicle description, and other identifying details of the fleeing vehicle, helping law enforcement catch the culprit.
• Debunking false accusations: Sometimes, other drivers might make false claims about your actions leading to an accident. Dashcam footage can serve as an objective record, refuting their accusations and establishing your innocence.

Dashcam footage can also strengthen your case, by:

• Verifying details: Dashcams often come equipped with features that record timestamps, speedometers, and GPS coordinates. This data can verify your account of events, including the time of the accident, your speed, and the location of the collision.
• Documenting injuries: The immediate aftermath of a crash can be chaotic. Dashcam footage can capture the extent of your initial injuries, providing valuable evidence for your personal injury claim, especially if your injuries manifest later.
• Countering biased witness accounts: Eyewitness testimony can be subjective and unreliable. Dashcam footage offers a neutral, objective perspective of the accident, potentially outweighing any biased witness statements.

Dashcams offer a variety of benefits beyond determining fault, as well:

• Negotiating with insurance companies: Dashcam footage can be a powerful tool when negotiating with insurance companies. Undisputed visual evidence of the accident can strengthen your claim and encourage the insurer to offer a fair settlement.
• Protecting yourself from fraud: Unfortunately, staged accidents and insurance fraud do occur. Dashcam footage can provide vital proof to counter fraudulent claims and protect yourself from being unfairly blamed.

Further considerations with using dashcam footage

While dashcam footage is incredibly beneficial, there are some other factors to keep in mind:

• Video quality: Grainy or unclear footage might not be very helpful. Ensure your dashcam records high-quality videos, especially in low-light conditions.
• Deleted or overwritten footage: Most dashcams operate on a loop, automatically deleting older footage to conserve storage. If you’re involved in an accident, secure the footage as soon as possible to prevent it from being overwritten.

While footage can help your case, it’s important to remember that it can also be used against you. If the other party believes your driving contributed to the accident, the footage might be used by their lawyer. Our Hanover car accident attorneys work to minimize your potential fault in the accident.

Maximizing the benefits of dashcam footage

Take this advice under consideration to maximize the benefits of your dashcam footage:

• Invest in a quality dashcam: Choose a dashcam that offers high-definition recording with night vision capabilities and a wide field of view to capture the entire scene.
• Keep your dashcam up-to-date: Ensure your dashcam firmware is updated regularly for optimal performance and to benefit from any new features.
• Download footage immediately: After an accident, prioritize securing the footage. Download it to a safe location or remove the memory card to prevent it from being overwritten.
• Seek legal counsel: Don’t share dashcam footage with anyone except your lawyer. At KBG Injury Law, we can advise on the best way to use the footage to your advantage.
• Follow the rules: Ensure you follow Pennsylvania law, which states that parties must provide their consent for audio recordings. You can opt to disable audio to avoid any potential legal issues.

Frequently asked questions about dashcam footage and car accidents

Here are some commonly asked questions regarding dashcam footage and car accidents.

Is dashcam footage always admissible in court?

The admissibility of dashcam footage can vary. Generally, courts will consider factors like:

• Authenticity of the footage: Can it be verified that the footage is from your dashcam and hasn’t been tampered with?
• Chain of custody: Has the footage been properly handled and stored to ensure its authenticity?
• Clarity of the recording: Is the video clear enough to discern details relevant to the accident?

Our Hanover car accident lawyers can advise you on the specific laws and the likelihood of your dashcam footage being admitted as evidence.

What if the accident wasn’t captured entirely on camera?

Even partial dashcam footage can be valuable. It can still provide important details like the time of day, weather conditions, or the traffic flow leading up to the accident. This can support your testimony and other evidence in your case.

What happens if my dashcam footage shows me doing something wrong?

This is certainly a concern, and it’s why it’s important to consult with your lawyer before sharing footage with anyone. At KBG Injury Law, we can advise you on the best course of action depending on your situation.

Can dashcam footage help even in a single-vehicle accident?

Yes, dashcam footage can be helpful even in single-vehicle accidents. For instance, the footage might reveal:

• Mechanical failure: The video might capture a mechanical issue with your car that contributed to the accident.
• Road conditions: The footage can document poor road conditions like potholes or debris that played a role in the accident.
• Weather factors: The video might show adverse weather conditions that contributed to the loss of control.

This type of evidence can be vital in situations where you might be facing claims of driver negligence.

Don’t wait for an accident to happen before taking action. Invest in a quality dashcam today and ensure you have legal muscle on your side. Contact the experienced Hanover car accident lawyers at KBG Injury Law for a free consultation to discuss how we can leverage any potential dashcam footage and fight for the compensation you deserve. To schedule a consultation with an experienced attorney, just call our offices or fill out our contact form. We maintain offices in York, Lancaster, Harrisburg, Hanover, and Gettysburg for your convenience.