When a car accident occurs, both the victim and their personal injury attorney might wish for clear video evidence that proves their case. Dashboard cameras can provide this service, but they could also be used against you. If you were injured in a car accident and had a dashboard cam, do not assume that you should hand it over to the insurance company. Instead, contact a California personal injury attorney who can help you determine the right way forward. Contact Law Offices of Fernando D. Vargas at 909-982-0707 for a free legal consultation.
Dash Cameras: A Good or Bad Idea?
There is no question that dash cameras can be very helpful in many personal injury cases. If you are a person who worries about getting into an accident and not being able to prove the case, then it could be what you are looking for. A dash cam can help expedite the claims process and, if the case goes to trial, help you convince the jury of what happened.
In California, dash cams are legal – but not in every state. When you install your camera, make sure that you install it in an area that does not add to the likelihood of being involved in an accident. For example, do not install it in such a way that it creates a blind spot.
It is Possible for Your Dash Cam to Be Used Against You
If you are involved in a car accident in which fault is not clear, then the footage can be used against you. Even if you do not voluntarily give it to the insurance company, they can subpoena it to refute your claim. This is why we recommend you contact an attorney so that they can review the video and determine how it affects your case.
Dash Cams Can Affect Insurance Claims in Several Ways
If the insurance company reviews the dashcam footage and finds it compelling, they will generally use it to determine if they should deny your claim or offer you a fair settlement. When the defendant is caught on camera, it is much harder for them to deny they were driving unsafely, broke laws, or were generally liable for the accident. If your case goes to a jury trial, you can count on the judge reviewing the dashcam footage before deciding if the jury can see it.
If you have been injured in a car accident in which a dashcam was present, contact Law Offices of Fernando D. Vargas at 909-982-0707 for a free legal consultation. We can look at your case, determine who was at fault and provide legal advice on how to best proceed. Call today and let us get to work for you.
