In personal injury law, especially in car accident cases, evidence plays a pivotal role in determining the outcome. With its unfiltered view of events, Dashcam footage has emerged as a useful tool for plaintiffs. At Schlesinger Law Offices, we have been able to utilize this (now) common technology to advocate for our clients, ensuring they receive the justice and compensation they deserve.
How Do Dashcams Work?
Dashcams, or dashboard cameras, are small digital video cameras mounted inside a vehicle, typically on the dashboard or windshield. They are designed to record continuously while the car is in operation. These devices capture real-time footage of the road ahead and sometimes even the interior of the vehicle or the view from the back of the car.
Key Features of Dashcams:
- Automatic Recording: Dashcams start recording automatically when the vehicle is turned on and stop when it is turned off.
- Loop Recording: They often use loop recording, where new footage overwrites the oldest files when storage is full, ensuring continuous recording without manual intervention.
- Date and Time Stamp: Videos are usually time-stamped, which is crucial for verifying when an incident occurred.
- High-Quality Imaging: Modern dashcams record in high definition, providing clear, detailed footage that can capture license plates, street signs, and other critical details.
The Rising Importance of Dashcam Footage
Dashcams have become increasingly common in vehicles. For plaintiffs in car accident lawsuits, these devices provide an invaluable source of evidence. The footage can offer clear, unbiased accounts of the events leading up to and during the event. This type of surveillance footage can be highly effective because it is easily understood by a jury and admissible. Furthermore, dashcam footage is factual, and as such, it is not subject to traditional credibility attacks. For plaintiffs, dashcam footage can help our attorneys counter any discrepancies or disputes regarding details of the accident. This objective evidence can be a game-changer in a legal landscape where proving liability and fault is essential.
Empowering Plaintiffs: The Schlesinger Law Offices Approach
At Schlesinger Law Offices, we recognize the value of dashcam footage in substantiating our clients’ claims. Our attorneys use all the available evidence in our thorough investigations to help secure favorable outcomes such as:
- $30.5 Million for a Brain Injury Case: Our attorneys secured this significant compensation for a family impacted by a severe brain injury due to a car accident.
- Roster v. Florida Department of Transportation – $15.7 Million Verdict: Mr. Roster was struck by a drunk driver and was rendered a quadriplegic. Attorneys at Schlesinger law offices meticulously investigated this case, strategically using all available evidence to secure the compensation our client deserved.
- $14.5 Million Against Geico: In this case, the lawyers at Schlesinger Law Offices argued for a sizable verdict to help compensate our clients for lost wages, medical expenses, and pain and suffering.
- $6.8 Million for a Father and Son: This multi-vehicle accident case involving a young child injured as a fetus was complex. Schlesinger Law offices were able to use the available evidence to establish the sequence of events and establish fault, resulting in a substantial verdict for our clients.
- Over $5 Million for a Rear Seat Passenger: In this case, our firm was able to secure compensation for a rear seat passenger injured during a collision with another car.
Understanding Legal Implications
While dashcam footage is highly valuable, it is essential to understand its legal implications. As noted by the Florida Bar, while such footage is easily admissible and often impactful, its discovery and disclosure must align with legal procedures. Our expertise at Schlesinger Law Offices ensures that the use of this evidence complies with all legal standards, maximizing its effectiveness in your case.
Are Dashcams Legal in Florida?
In Florida, the use of dashcams is legal. However, it is important to be aware of certain legal considerations:
- Windshield Obstruction Laws: Florida has laws regarding windshield obstructions. A dashcam should not obstruct the driver’s view of the road.
- Privacy Considerations: Florida is a two-party consent state for audio recordings, meaning you must have consent from all parties being recorded if audio is captured inside the vehicle.
- Evidence in Court: Legally obtained dashcam footage is generally admissible in court and can be an invaluable asset in a car accident case.
The lawyers at Schlesinger Law Offices understand these legal nuances and will ensure that your dashcam footage (and other evidence) aligns with state laws and is legally sound and admissible.
Can Dashcams Hurt My Case?
While dashcams can provide beneficial evidence in car accident cases, there are instances where they could potentially harm your case:
- Contradictory Evidence: If the dashcam footage contradicts your account of the accident, it can weaken your case. For instance, if you claim you were hit from behind, but the footage shows otherwise, it could be damaging.
- Partial Fault Evidence: Florida follows a comparative negligence system, meaning your compensation can be reduced by your percentage of fault. If dashcam footage shows you were partly at fault for the accident, it could reduce the amount of compensation you receive.
- Illegal or Reckless Behavior: If the dashcam captures you engaging in illegal or reckless driving behavior at the time of the accident, this footage could be used against you.
At Schlesinger Law Offices, we thoroughly analyze all available evidence, including dashcam footage, to build a robust case. Our experience allows us to use all evidence, including dashcam footage, to your advantage while mitigating any potential negative impact it may have on your case.
The advent of dashcam technology has significantly altered the dynamics of presenting evidence in car accident cases. At Schlesinger Law Offices, we are committed to utilizing this technology to its fullest potential, advocating tirelessly for our clients. Whatever your situation, our team is prepared to leverage every piece of evidence, including dashcam footage, to secure the justice and compensation you deserve.
