Benefits of Dashcams in Accidents
Written by Bob Katz Law reviewed by Timothy J. Capurso
Car AccidentsDashcam video could play a crucial role in your case, especially if you are not at fault. In most civil claims that see the inside of a courtroom, the plaintiff has the burden of proving their case. To meet this burden, the plaintiff must produce evidence to convince the factfinder as to the truth of what happened, who is responsible, and who should pay. Without proper evidence, meeting the burden of proof can be difficult.
Benefits of Dashcams in Accidents at Maryland
In many motor vehicle accident cases, the main piece of evidence that attorneys usually depend on, is the police report. This report gives details of the accident, and the officer may also place a specific party at fault. Unfortunately, what many injury victims may not realize that the report may not be admissible in court. Further, there are times when the officer does not create a police report, even though the officer came to the scene and asked the parties to exchange information. Other times there may be a witness that can provide testimony as to what they saw happen which could be different than what the other party involved is saying happened. While dashcams can be helpful in many cases, what if there are no witnesses or police reports available? There may be no additional information to depend on. Pictures or videos taken at the scene of the accident or showing property damage can also be relevant evidence.
Dashcams offer invaluable assistance in such situations. Dashcams can be easily installed in a vehicle and activate when the vehicle is in motion. What you see when you are driving is what the camera is going to record. For example, if you are hit while proceeding through a green light, you will be able to prove you were not at fault. This proof will help you even if there is a dispute from the other driver, even if there are no witnesses, and no police report. Some dashcams can also record your speed and the impact of a collision. Dashcam footage is legally admissible in court and can be used to help make the determination of liability in a car accident.
It should be noted that if you are at-fault in an accident and you have a dashcam, that footage may be used against you in court. However, all things being equal, most drivers who are careful and attentive drivers will benefit from the use of a dashcam, as an added layer of protection of their rights.
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