Dashcams used to be novelty items — but that has changed drastically. In 2022, more than 3.7 billion dashcams were sold, and even more came pre-installed in high-end vehicles.
Dashcams are small, personal electronics that record footage while a vehicle is in motion. They can be absolutely invaluable in the event of a traffic accident, and they have become increasingly relevant in personal injury and property damage claims related to motor vehicle crashes.
A typical dashcam records forward-facing video from the front windshield, though some models also record rear views, cabin footage and even GPS data such as speed and location. Advanced versions may include audio recording and impact detection features. Many models record automatically when the vehicle is turned on and store footage on a memory card or in the cloud.
Dashcam footage can but both ways
In general, dashcam video can be admitted into court, when necessary, so long as the footage is found to be unedited.
Dashcam footage can play a valuable role in determining fault during an accident investigation. Video evidence can show whether a driver ran a red light, failed to yield, made an improper lane change or engaged in other negligent behavior. In many cases, this kind of documentation can provide clarity when witness statements conflict or when fault is disputed – and it is particularly useful when there are no witnesses around at all except for the drivers involved in the crash.
For insurers, having access to clear footage can accelerate the claims process. When liability is evident, a claim may be resolved more quickly, reducing the overall time and stress involved in the aftermath of a crash for the victims.
Conversely, if the footage contradicts a driver’s statement or shows negligent behavior on the alleged victim’s behalf, it may complicate or reduce the likelihood of a favorable outcome for a claim. In Tennessee, liability for personal injury claims (including car accidents) is evaluated under a modified comparative fault law. That means each party can be assigned a percentage of fault for the accident and any resulting injuries. Plaintiffs can still recover damages as long as they are assigned less than 50% of the liability – but any compensation they may be due will be reduced by whatever percentage of fault is ultimately attributed their way.
Dashcams are also useful in preventing and defending against fraudulent accident claims. For example, if a driver is falsely accused of causing a crash (such as happens in scams in areas heavily traveled by tourists), video evidence may disprove the allegation. In hit-and-run cases, dashcam footage can also sometimes capture license plate information or details that help identify the at-fault driver – and that can open the door to a claim that might otherwise be abandoned.
In short, dashcams have changed the way that insurance companies are doing business when it comes to car accident claims – because the camera doesn’t lie. If you are an accident victim, seeking legal guidance is still essential, however – whether a dashcam was present at the time of the crash or not.