Serena Ortiz
When a car accident occurs, it’s often your word against the other driver’s, and without solid evidence, proving fault can be challenging. That’s why more Michigan drivers are installing dashcams to protect themselves and document what really happened on the road. In many cases, this video footage becomes a critical piece of evidence that can strengthen your car accident claim.
Whether you’re seeking compensation for medical bills, vehicle repairs, or lost income, dashcam footage can play an important role in building a compelling personal injury case. A skilled Troy car accident lawyer from Khamo Law can review the footage and use it strategically to pursue the compensation you deserve.
Why Dashcam Footage Matters After a Car Accident
Dashcams are small dashboard-mounted cameras that continuously record the road ahead, the interior, or the rear view of your vehicle. After an accident, this footage can offer an unbiased account of the incident. It may show how the crash occurred, the behavior of the other driver, or even nearby traffic conditions. When memories fade or drivers tell conflicting stories, video evidence can help set the record straight.
How Dashcam Footage Can Strengthen Your Michigan Accident Claim
Whether it’s a rear-end collision, intersection accident, or a sideswipe on the highway, dashcam footage can serve as proof of fault. The video may show the other driver texting, speeding, or failing to yield. It might also capture important pre-crash details, such as turn signals or brake lights, that help clarify how the accident unfolded.
In cases where there are no witnesses or if the police report lacks detail, dashcam footage can fill in the gaps. For victims who are seriously injured and unable to give a statement right away, having the crash recorded is often the strongest form of evidence available.
Michigan’s No-Fault Laws and the Role of Evidence
Michigan follows a no-fault insurance system, meaning your own insurance typically covers your medical expenses and lost wages, regardless of who caused the crash. However, if your injuries are serious enough (i.e., resulting in permanent impairment or disfigurement), you may be eligible to file a lawsuit against the at-fault driver for additional compensation.
In these cases, dashcam footage becomes crucial in proving negligence. If you’re seeking non-economic damages like pain and suffering, your attorney must show that the other driver was responsible for the crash. A dashcam video can offer clear, timestamped evidence that supports your version of events.
Legal Considerations for Using Dashcam Footage in Michigan
In Michigan, it’s legal to use a dashcam in your vehicle, as long as it doesn’t obstruct your view through the windshield. Audio recording is generally allowed as long as at least one party (for example, you) consents to the recording. That said, the footage must be relevant, properly preserved, and legally obtained to be admissible in court.
If your dashcam captures something useful, don’t share or alter it. Let your car accident lawyer review the footage first to decide how it should be used.
Tips for Using Dashcam Footage to Support Your Claim
- Save the video immediately and make multiple backups.
- Record the date and time to verify when the footage was captured.
- Avoid posting clips online, as this can affect your case.
- Provide the footage to your car accident attorney as soon as possible.
Even a few seconds of video can help reconstruct what happened and refute false claims from other parties or insurance companies.
When to Speak With a Car Accident Lawyer in Michigan
If you’ve been injured in a crash and believe your dashcam captured something important, speak with a legal professional. A knowledgeable car accident attorney can review your footage, preserve it correctly, and use it to support your claim during negotiations or litigation. If you’re unsure how to use your dashcam footage effectively, consult an experienced lawyer in Michigan who can guide you every step of the way.
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