Dashcams have surged in popularity in recent years. While the resulting footage can make for viral online content, it also serves a much more practical purpose: providing an objective record of what happened in the moments before, during and after a collision.
In a resulting accident case, dashcam video may support an injured person’s account of the events and help resolve disputes about fault.
What the footage may show
A dashcam can capture details that might otherwise be difficult to prove after an accident. Depending on the circumstances, recordings may show:
- Traffic signals and road signs
- Vehicle speeds and movements
- Lane changes or unsafe driving behavior
- Weather and road conditions
- The sequence of events leading to the crash
When available, video evidence can complement witness statements, photographs and other information gathered during an investigation.
How it can affect a claim
Maryland follows a contributory negligence rule. Often, even a small amount of fault assigned to an injured person can affect the ability to recover compensation. Because of this, evidence that helps establish how a collision occurred may be particularly important.
Dashcam footage may help:
- Clarify conflicting accounts of an accident
- Identify traffic violations
- Support a claim that another driver acted negligently
- Preserve evidence before memories fade
The value of a video recording depends on its quality and relevance to the issues in dispute.
Preserving and reviewing video evidence
When a dashcam captures a crash, it is essential to preserve the recording as soon as possible. Since many cameras and devices automatically overwrite older footage after a certain period, fast action is critical.
Video footage is often reviewed alongside police reports, witness statements and other documentation. Having legal guidance can help ensure that recordings and other important evidence are identified and preserved.