When you are involved in a car accident, it can be frustrating to try to convince an insurance adjuster or judge that you were not responsible for the collision. However, there may be a way to illustrate that you took the necessary precautions while behind the wheel. Installing a dash cam in your car is an effective way to capture crashes, as you’ll discover if you continue reading. Regardless of whether or not you have this device, you’ll still need to enlist the assistance of a Monroe, Louisiana car accident lawyer to help you navigate the complexities of filing a lawsuit.
What Is a Dash Cam, and Is It Legal to Have One?
Dashboard cameras (dash cams) are small recording devices that capture footage of the areas in and around your vehicle. Generally, most people have one singular camera that points out of their front windshield, though some also have a camera pointing out of the back of their car. These capture video of what’s happening on the road while the driver is behind the wheel.
Though it may seem as though there are privacy concerns surrounding these devices, they are legal in all fifty states. However, they can become illegal if they obstruct the view of the driver. As such, installing this device in the front bottom corner in front of the passenger seat or directly behind your review mirror are generally safe spots for a camera.
How Can a Camera Help Me if I’m Involved in a Collision?
If you are involved in a collision, having footage of the accident can provide irrefutable evidence that you are not at fault. In instances where the other driver places the blame on you, having footage may easily resolve the dispute without the need for a lengthy and costly court battle. For example, the video may show that you were hit by the driver while they were texting. Similarly, if you are the victim of an insurance scam in which a driver reverses into your vehicle to make it seem like you rear-ended them, you can dispel these claims. Finally, if you are the victim of a hit-and-run, the video may have captured the license plate information so the police can apprehend the liable party.
If I Have Footage, Why Do I Need an Attorney?
Though you may think the footage alone is enough to help prove that you are innocent in your claims, this is not always the case. You should never submit dashboard camera footage without having an attorney review it. Unfortunately, if there is any reasonable doubt that you could be somewhat responsible as captured on the recording, your attorney may advise against using it as evidence.
When you need help, Breithaupt, DuBos, & Wolleson can help. Our dedicated legal team is ready to help represent you if you’ve been injured in a collision. Contact us today to learn how we will fight for you.
