Are Dashcams Really Worth It?

By Eugene Bruno on April 1, 2024

If you are involved in a car accident, evidence is essential in the courtroom — and in recent years, dashcams have emerged as potentially game-changing evidence. But are they worth the investment? From a legal standpoint, the answer is a resounding yes.

Dashcams continuously record the road ahead, sometimes from multiple angles, and some also have the option to record the interior of the car. These devices have become increasingly popular among drivers for various reasons, so we will discuss how dashcams can provide crucial evidence in the event of a crash.

Benefits of Investing in a Dashcam

Objective Documentation

One of the most significant advantages of owning a dashcam is its ability to provide unbiased, real-time footage of the events leading up to and following a crash. Eyewitness testimony can be unreliable, but video evidence speaks for itself. Dashcams capture crucial details such as the position and speed of vehicles, traffic conditions, and the actions of both drivers involved.

Establishing Fault

In most cases, the at-fault driver tries to avoid responsibility. Without video evidence, these cases sometimes come down to one person’s word against another’s. Dashcam footage is invaluable because it provides a clear record of what happened.

Insurance Benefits

Many insurance companies now recognize the value of dashcam footage in resolving claims efficiently and accurately. Some insurers even offer discounts or incentives for drivers who have dashcams installed in their vehicles. By investing in a dashcam, you help yourself legally and may also enjoy cost savings on your insurance premiums.

Features to Consider When Purchasing a Dashcam

When considering purchasing a dashcam, there are several key features and factors to keep in mind to ensure you get the best possible device for your needs. Here’s what to look for in a dashcam:

• Video Quality: The video resolution of a dashcam is crucial because it determines the footage’s clarity. Look for dashcams that offer at least 1080p Full HD resolution, with higher-end models offering 1440p or even 4K resolution for sharper images. High-quality video is essential for capturing license plate numbers and other details, especially in low-light conditions.
• Wide-Angle Lens: A wide-angle lens allows for a broader field of view, capturing more of the road and surroundings. Look for dashcams with wide-angle lenses, preferably 140 degrees or more, to ensure you capture important details from both sides of the road.
• Night Vision: Crashes can happen at any time, so having good night vision capabilities is essential for dashcams. Look for models with features like low-light sensitivity and infrared LEDs for enhanced visibility in dark or nighttime conditions.
• Loop Recording: Loop recording automatically overwrites the oldest footage on the memory card when it reaches capacity, ensuring that your dashcam is always recording. This feature is essential for continuous recording without the need to manually delete files or replace the memory card.
• G-Sensor: The G-sensor (or gravity sensor) detects sudden acceleration, deceleration, or impact and automatically saves the current recording, protecting it from being overwritten. This feature is crucial for preserving footage of crashes or incidents without user intervention.
• Parking Mode: Parking mode allows the dashcam to continue recording even when the vehicle is parked and turned off. Look for dashcams with motion detection or impact detection in parking mode to capture any incidents while your vehicle is unattended.
• GPS: Some dashcams are equipped with GPS functionality, which can record your vehicle’s speed and location data along with the video footage. This information can be valuable in providing additional context in legal proceedings or insurance claims.

Obtain Dashcam Evidence and Seek Compensation

There’s no denying that dashcam videos can significantly strengthen your car accident case and increase the likelihood of a favorable outcome. A dashcam is worth the investment for any driver. Purchasing one is not just about recording your journeys; you help yourself against unforeseen incidents and ultimately drive with confidence, knowing there’s a reliable witness wherever you go.

By considering the factors and features previously listed, you can choose a dashcam that meets your specific needs and provides reliable and high-quality footage to help you in case of a crash or incidents on the road. However, a dashcam isn’t the only means to help you in a car accident.

A San Diego auto accident lawyer can help you with your car accident case. The attorneys at Eugene Bruno & Associates have been recognized by Expertise as the Best Car Accident Lawyer and Personal Injury Lawyer in San Diego in recent years. If you’ve been involved in a car accident and need legal guidance, contact us at 1-888-BRUNO-88 (1-888-278-6688). With over 40 years of combined experience and a 99.7% success rate, we’re determined to fight for your rights.