- January 5, 2024
Dashboard cameras, or dashcams as they are commonly known, have seen a surge in popularity in recent years. In the event of a car accident in Charlotte, the dashcam footage captured by these cameras can be instrumental in determining who was at fault.
Below, we explain the key facts about this topic. Don’t hesitate to contact our law firm for help with your case.
Dashcam Footage in Car Accident Cases
Establishing fault in the aftermath of a car accident can be a complex task. This is where dashboard cameras prove their worth. Dashcam footage can provide unbiased evidence to establish the cause of the accident. It can also shed light on other factors that may have contributed to the accident.
In the event of a hit-and-run accident, a dash cam can help identify the make, model, color, and license plate of the offending vehicle. The footage can also reveal crucial information about the other driver’s behavior post-accident. It could capture them admitting fault, displaying signs of intoxication, or behaving aggressively.
However, it’s important to remember that a dash cam has a limited field of view and may not capture an accident that occurs outside its range. While a dash cam can be helpful, and in some cases even conclusive, it may not always provide a clear answer to who was at fault.
Car Accident Laws in North Carolina
North Carolina follows the traditional “fault”-based system for determining financial responsibility for losses resulting from a car accident. This means that if you cause a car accident in North Carolina, you can be held liable for all injuries and property damage.
North Carolina law stipulates a three-year statute of limitations for filing a car accident claim. This means you have three years from the date of the accident to initiate your case.
According to North Carolina law, a car accident must be reported to the police if it resulted in injury or death, or if it caused property damage exceeding $1,000.
Using Dashcam Footage As Evidence in North Carolina
In our technologically advanced era, dashcams have become an essential gadget for motorists. They offer a visual chronicle of incidents on the road, which can be crucial in certain circumstances. But how do they stand in terms of legality and their use as evidence in North Carolina?
Is It Legal to Use Dashcams in North Carolina?
Yes, the use of dashcams is legal in North Carolina. Unlike some states, North Carolina does not have specific laws governing the installation or use of dashcams. However, it is advisable to consider safety when setting up your dashcam. Make sure it does not block your view or distract you while driving.
Can Dashcam Recordings Be Used as Evidence?
Yes, in most instances, dashcam recordings can be used as evidence in car accident cases. The footage can significantly enhance the understanding of what transpired in a car accident, particularly when the insurance company or the driver at fault denies responsibility.
However, the acceptance of dashcam footage in court is not guaranteed. It must meet certain evidentiary criteria such as relevance, authenticity, and absence of potential prejudice or bias.
Privacy Considerations
While dashcams are legal and their footage can be used as evidence, there are privacy considerations to bear in mind. Courts must ascertain if privacy rights have been infringed before admitting such evidence in a trial.
Generally, you can legally record anything that occurs on public roads. But if you are recording audio of your private conversations with passengers in the car, you should inform them that your dashcam is recording.
Dashboard Cameras and Insurance Claims
A dash camera can help keep your insurance rates low. While savings may not be directly offered — Progressive, for example, does not offer a dashcam discount — there may be insurance benefits from installing cameras in your car. For example, dashcam recordings may be useful in capturing videos to provide supporting evidence for insurance claims.
Legal Considerations of Dashboard Cameras in North Carolina
In most cases in North Carolina, dash cam video footage is admissible evidence in car accident cases. Dash cams have dramatically improved North Carolina car accident attorneys’ and juries’ ability to understand exactly what happened in a car accident, especially when the insurance company or at-fault driver denies liability.
Call Our Charlotte Car Accident Lawyers Today
While dashboard cameras can provide valuable evidence in the event of an auto accident, they are just one piece of the puzzle. It’s important to contact an experienced Charlotte car accident attorney who can gather all the relevant evidence and build a strong case.
Contact our law firm at 704.706.2689 today for a free consultation.
