Should I Drive with a Dashcam in My Car?
More now than ever before, Florida drivers are using dashcams in their cars. Maybe you want the security and protection that one can offer if you are pulled over by the police or involved in an accident. Or perhaps you want to be able to help others facing the same or similar situations. Whatever your motivations, you may be undecided as to whether you should add this piece of equipment to your vehicle or not. You're not alone. Our Sarasota car accident attorneys are often broached with this question. Here are some of the most critical factors to consider.
Are Dashcams Legal?
Before doing anything with your vehicle or using a piece of equipment while driving, it's imperative to find out if it's legal. If it's not legal, it's not a good idea. However, dashcams are permitted in the state of Florida with two caveats:
- Windshield Obstruction Law: Drivers can't use their car if their view is obstructed. Suppose your dashcam is in the way of your view of the road. In that case, it's illegal, and you could receive a fine/non-moving violation if caught by local law enforcement.
- Electronic Audio Surveillance Law: Since dash cameras often have the ability to record audio and everyone who is being recorded must give consent to electronic surveillance, this can put you in a tricky situation. You must ensure that anyone in your vehicle is notified that they are being recorded. If you fail to do so, or they state that they don't consent to be recorded, you could be charged with a felony.
If you have questions about whether a dashcam is legal under certain situations, it's best to seek legal counsel from an experienced Sarasota car accident lawyer.
Dash Cameras in Car Accidents
Keep in mind that just because a particular action is legal or you are ensuring that you do it legally doesn't mean that it's always in your best interests. For some, a dashcam will be an invaluable tool that collects evidence in support of their injury claim after a car accident. But, for others, it can be quite the opposite.
Since insurance companies make it their goal to pay as little as possible for accident claims, they will likely attempt to use your dashcam footage against you. For example, suppose a dashcam recording exists of the accident or the moments leading up to and after the accident. In that case, the insurance company has the legal right to obtain a copy. Unfortunately, you don't have the right to withhold it from them, which could harm your claim.
It's also essential to note that the quality of a dashcam video can vary. For example, the video you need may be of poor quality, not have a wide enough angle, or have technical issues. As such, it's not foolproof, and it may not show what you need it to in order to support your claim.
If you already have a dashcam recording of your car accident, bring that to your Sarasota car accident attorney during your initial consultation. They will want to watch it and ask you several questions. After careful review, they can explain how it might help or hurt your case and what can be done about it.
Recently Injured in a Car Accident? Contact the Reputable Sarasota Car Accident Attorneys at Matthews Injury Law
If you need representation from a reputable Sarasota car accident lawyer, look no further than those at Matthews Injury Law. Our attorneys take pride in standing up for your rights so that you receive the best outcome possible in your case. Call 941-877-5800 or contact us online to receive your complimentary car accident case review.