5 Reasons to Install a Dash Cam Before Your Next Drive
No one gets in their car expecting to be involved in an accident. But the reality is, accidents happen every day on Illinois roads, often when you least anticipate them. While you can’t always avoid an accident, you can take steps to protect yourself in the event of one. Installing a dash cam in your vehicle is a simple yet highly effective way to do just that.
At Onward Injury Law, we’ve seen firsthand how valuable dash cam footage can be in the aftermath of a car accident. Here are five reasons why we believe every driver should consider adding this small but mighty device to their vehicle.
1. Prove Fault and Liability in a Car Accident
Determining who’s at fault in an accident can be complicated. Without clear evidence, it often comes down to one driver’s word against another’s. This is where dash cam footage can be a game-changer.
A dash cam acts as an objective, impartial witness, capturing exactly what happened leading up to and during an accident. This footage can provide indisputable proof of fault by capturing key details like:
- Another driver running a red light or stop sign
- A motorist swerving recklessly into your lane
- A distracted driver rear-ending your vehicle
- A pedestrian or cyclist darting out into the road
- The exact point of impact and positioning of the vehicles
When you have dashcam evidence on your side, it can significantly strengthen your case and help you get the compensation you deserve for your medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.
2. Shield Yourself from Fraudulent Accident Claims
Unfortunately, there are dishonest people who try to exploit the chaos and confusion of an accident scene for personal gain. From staged “cash for crash” collisions to exaggerated injury claims, fraudulent accident schemes are a very real threat on Bloomington roads.
Without concrete evidence to disprove them, these fraudulent claims can lead to legal battles, skyrocketing insurance premiums, and undeserved payouts.
But with a dash cam rolling, you have a powerful defense against fraudulent accident claims. The footage can expose inconsistencies or outright lies in the other party’s story, shielding you from unwarranted blame or liability.
3. Expedite the Car Insurance Claim Process
Dealing with insurance companies can be a long, frustrating process. Insurers are often quick to minimize or deny claims to protect their bottom line. But with dash cam footage, you have compelling evidence to back up your claim and expedite the process.
The recording can clearly show the extent of the damage to your vehicle. This can be especially valuable evidence in proving the severity of any injuries and justifying your compensation demands.
4. Strengthen Your Car Accident Lawsuit
While no one wants to think about their car accident case ending up in court, sometimes filing a lawsuit is the only way to get the full compensation you deserve. If you do have to pursue legal action, dash cam footage can be an incredibly powerful piece of evidence to have in your corner.
Your car accident attorney can use the dash cam recording to build a compelling case demonstrating the other driver’s negligence and the extent of your damages. Video evidence can be far more impactful than still photos, police reports, or witness statements alone.
In our experience at Onward Injury Law, car accident cases with clear and conclusive dash cam footage can lead to larger settlements and quicker resolutions than those without video evidence. When a defendant and their insurer can see their liability laid bare on camera, they’re often more motivated to offer a fair settlement rather than risk a trial.
5. Drive with Greater Peace of Mind
Beyond all the practical legal and financial benefits, having a dash cam can provide invaluable peace of mind every time you get behind the wheel.
We all like to think we’re safe drivers. But the truth is, we can’t control the actions of others on the road. With a dash cam, you have the reassurance of knowing that if the worst happens, you’ll have a powerful ally to help you prove your case and get your life back on track.
Protect Your Rights with a Dash Cam
At the end of the day, a dash cam is about empowering and protecting yourself as a driver. It’s a small investment that can make a world of difference if you’re ever unfortunate enough to be involved in an accident.
If you’ve recently been in a car accident and have questions about your rights or legal options, our experienced car accident attorneys are here to help. Don’t let someone else’s negligence derail your life. Reach out to us for a free, no-obligation consultation. We’ll review your case, help you understand your options, and fight for the full and fair compensation you deserve.
Stay safe out there.