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Dashcam footage can be crucial in proving who caused a car accident. Video evidence provides a clear, objective record of events, helping show how the collision happened and whether a driver acted negligently. Insurance companies and courts often rely on dashcam recordings because they capture details that written reports or witness statements may miss.
How Dashcam Footage Helps Establish Fault
Dashcam recordings offer real-time evidence of actions, road conditions, and driver behavior moments before the collision. This is especially valuable when the drivers involved tell conflicting stories. Footage may show:
- Sudden lane changes
- Speeding or aggressive driving
- Failure to yield or stop
- Distracted driving behaviors
- Weather and traffic conditions
Because video is more reliable than memory, insurers may give substantial weight to dashcam evidence when determining fault.
Can Dashcam Footage Be Used in Insurance Claims?
Yes, most insurance companies accept dashcam footage during the claims process. Drivers often submit recordings to:
- Show how the crash occurred
- Disprove accusations of fault
- Counter inaccurate police reports
- Support personal injury claims
Submitting clear, unedited footage as soon as possible enhances its credibility and helps insurers evaluate the claim more quickly.
Is Dashcam Footage Admissible in Court?
In many situations, dashcam footage is admissible in Maryland courts as long as it is:
- Relevant to the accident
- Accurately time-stamped or verifiable
- Unaffected by editing or manipulation
- Obtained legally, without violating privacy or recording laws
Maryland is a two-party consent state for audio recordings, but this rule generally does not apply to video without sound recorded on public roads. If the dashcam captures audio inside the car, the recording may still be admissible, but courts evaluate such cases on a case-by-case basis.
Limitations of Dashcam Evidence
While dashcam footage is robust evidence, it is not perfect. Some limitations include:
- Restricted field of view: Footage may miss side impacts or events outside the camera’s field of view.
- Poor lighting or weather conditions: Nighttime, fog, or heavy rain can reduce clarity.
- Technical issues: Blurry resolution, corrupted files, or camera malfunctions can weaken its usefulness.
- No context for speed: Unless the dashcam includes speed data, insurers may question how fast vehicles were traveling.
Dashcam footage works best when paired with other evidence such as photos, witness statements, vehicle damage reports, and police documentation.
Common Questions About Dashcams and Accident Claims
Does dashcam footage always prove liability?
No. While it can strongly support your side of the story, insurers may argue that the footage is incomplete or doesn’t reflect what happened off-camera. It is one piece of evidence, not the entire case.
Should I show the other driver my dashcam footage?
Generally, no. Sharing video at the scene can spark disputes or allow the other driver to adjust their story. It is safer to provide footage only to your insurer or attorney.
Can dashcam footage hurt my claim?
Yes, if the footage shows risky driving, distraction, or partial fault. Because Maryland follows contributory negligence, even 1% fault can impact your ability to recover damages.
Is it useful to install a rear-facing dashcam?
Yes. Many crashes—such as rear-end collisions or hit-and-run accidents—occur behind the vehicle. Rear-facing cameras provide valuable evidence that front-facing cameras miss.
Why Dashcam Footage Is Becoming More Important
More drivers now use dashcams, and insurers increasingly recognize their value. With the rise of disputed claims, staged accidents, and conflicting statements, video evidence can be the deciding factor in determining fault. For victims, dashcams offer protection and clarity when they need it most.
How a Lawyer Can Use Dashcam Footage to Strengthen Your Case
A skilled attorney can review your dashcam footage, compare it with physical evidence, and use it to build a strong argument for liability. If footage is incomplete or unclear, a lawyer can gather additional evidence—such as witness statements, surveillance video, and accident reconstruction—to support your claim. If you were injured in a Maryland car accident, McGowan & Cecil can evaluate your case, protect your rights, and pursue the compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation.