A dashcam is a camera that looks out from the front of a vehicle and records everything that happens. Many people use dashcams to have evidence in case they get into or witness a motor vehicle accident. A dashcam may also help provide evidence if a driver witnesses another crime while in their car. Another reason people have dashcams is to help their case if they need to file a personal injury claim
Dashcams are legal in Illinois if they meet certain requirements, such as not obstructing the driver’s view out of their front window. Do dashcams help or hurt personal injury claims?
Footage can help or hurt a driver’s case
Dashcams can help and hurt a personal injury claim, depending on the device’s records. A recording does not forget details, so if the camera shows that someone was not at fault for an accident, it can be a tremendous help. However, if the camera shows something that appears to be an error on the owner’s part, that can hurt a personal injury case. Dashboard evidence is admissible in court in Illinois, regardless of whose side it helps. If the camera owner made the mistake, it could hurt their case to have their camera’s recordings.
Dashcam evidence in court
Drivers should save their dashcam footage if they believe they have evidence that might prove or disprove an action taken by themselves or another party. It should also be noted that if authorities ask for dashcam footage from an accident and the driver knowingly deletes it, that can be considered destruction of evidence and lead to more severe charges.
Dashboard cameras can remove the “he said, she said” aspect of car accidents. When drivers know the pros and cons of having a dashcam in their cars, they can make more informed decisions regarding their use.