Dash Cams and What They Can Mean for Your Personal Injury Claim
When it comes to proving fault in a crash, few things are more powerful than clear video evidence. That’s where dash cams come in.
At Dunnion Law, we’ve seen firsthand how dash cam footage can become the turning point in a personal injury case. These small devices record what’s happening on the road in real time — and when an accident happens, that footage can make or break your claim. We’ve used dash cam evidence to hold negligent drivers accountable and protect our clients from being unfairly blamed.
Let’s break down how dash cams can impact your case, and what you need to know if you’re injured in a crash.
Dash Cam Footage Can Support Your Side of the Story
In a collision, it’s common for the at-fault driver to deny responsibility. Insurance companies often take their side — at least at first — unless there’s hard proof.
A dash cam can give us that proof:
- Showing how the crash really happened, from your point of view
- Confirming you followed traffic laws
- Capturing the other driver speeding, texting, running a red light or swerving into your lane
Instead of relying on memory or witness accounts, we can present solid, time-stamped video that backs up your claim.
Dash Cam Can Protect You Against False Accusations
Unfortunately, some drivers will try to shift blame or exaggerate their injuries.
We’ve had clients falsely accused of causing a crash — until dash cam footage told the real story. In those cases, the camera saved them from unfair financial liability and helped turn the case around.
Even in hit-and-runs or staged accidents, dash cam video can be effective for tracking down the other vehicle or showing that the incident wasn’t your fault.
Insurance Companies Take Dash Cam Evidence Seriously
We deal with insurers every day. When dash cam footage is available, they tend to settle faster — and for a higher amount.
Why? Because they know it will be hard to argue with clear video that shows their driver at fault. The more airtight your evidence, the less they have to deny or delay your claim.
Dash Cams Can Help With Other Legal Details
In some cases, dash cam footage has revealed:
- Dangerous road conditions that contributed to the crash
- Commercial vehicles following too closely or driving aggressively
- Reckless driving patterns leading up to the moment of impact
We’ve even used dash cam evidence to prove the severity of impact, which helps justify medical care or long-term recovery costs.
Be Cautious; Not All Footage Helps
Here’s the flip side: if your dash cam shows you were distracted, speeding or breaking traffic laws, it could hurt your case.
In California, comparative fault rules allow your compensation to be reduced if you’re found partially at fault. That’s why it’s important to let your attorney review the footage first — so we can assess how it might be used and prepare your case accordingly.
Injured in a Crash? Let’s Use Every Tool To Protect You
At Dunnion Law, we fight to make sure our clients aren’t taken advantage of by insurance companies. If you’ve been injured in a car, truck or rideshare accident, and you have dash cam footage, bring it to us. We’ll use every resource — video, witness accounts, expert testimony and more — to build the strongest case possible.
We know the law. We know your rights. We’re on your side. Reach out to us today for a free consultation.