Dashcams, or dashboard cameras, have been becoming increasingly popular in recent years. Some insurance companies now even offer monthly discounts for customers who will agree to use a dashcam, and most people agree without a second thought, though it is a decision that deserves consideration. Dashcam footage of an accident can be helpful or incriminating, depending on whether you were at fault in the accident. Many people do not consider that the flip side to the dashcam providing evidence in the event of a car crash is that the evidence can work against them. This is particularly true in Florida, which is a comparative negligence state. The information in this article is intended to be general, but in reality, no two car accidents or cases are alike. The only way to get reliable information about your case is to speak one-on-one with a qualified personal injury attorney. To receive personalized feedback from a Orlando personal injury attorney, contact the Florida lawyers at HAWM Law to schedule a consultation.

Legal Impact of Dashcam Footage in Florida

In Florida, dashcams are legal provided that they do not obstruct the driver’s view through the windshield. Additionally, you must have the consent of anyone that you are recording in the car or outside the car who would have a reasonable expectation of privacy. However, dashcam footage is legally admissible as evidence and can be used to determine liability in a car accident by police, insurance, or the court. As noted above, Florida is a comparative negligence state, which means that even if you were not at fault for the accident, your recovery can still be reduced by any percentage by which you are determined to have contributed to the accident and/or the harm you suffered. Dashcam footage significantly increases the chances of smaller instances of negligence being caught on film, so it could potentially decrease your recovery. However, it could also seriously expedite the determination of liability and investigation process, especially if the footage supports your account of events. It is important to weigh the factors and make the decision that is best for you.

Obtaining Dashcam Footage

If you have dashcam footage of your accident, police officers may choose to seize it as evidence when they respond to the accident if the cause is not clear cut. If it is not seized by officers immediately, you may still face additional legal charges later if you attempt to delete, discard, or alter any of your dashcam footage and it is subpoenaed by the court. If you become aware that another driver has dashcam footage of the accident, it is important to let your attorney know as soon as possible so that they can work to get the footage before anything happens to it.

Schedule a Consultation with HAWM Law

If you have been in an accident in the Orlando or greater Florida area, contact the experienced personal injury attorneys at HAWM Law to schedule a consultation and find out how we can help you get the recovery that you deserve.