Should I have a Dash Cam?
YES, AND YOU SHOULD GET A REAR-FACING ONE, TOO.
A dash cam preserves what really happened when people disagree about a collision, and it can mean the difference between having all your medical bills paid for you, and being on the hook for someone else’s mistake.
EVEN EXPENSIVE MODELS WILL PAY FOR THEMSELVES.
Most consumer-grade dashboard cameras are fairly cheap and reliable these days. You may go several years without an incident, but your dash cam has your back every time you drive. All it takes is one collision, and the dash cam is invaluable. Make sure you inspect it regularly and ensure the footage is being properly stored and that the camera has a clear view.
Dash cam footage can make confusing cases and claims clear-cut, and may be able to quickly prove liability. The video could show a hit-and-run vehicle’s license plate, cars merging improperly, traffic signals, road conditions, and even entire events before impact.
If you have been in a traffic incident, make sure to preserve the original recording as soon as possible, since dashcams commonly overwrite and erase their own data so they can continue recording. Make sure to save the full relevant sequence or time period (plus a little extra). It’s also smart to save a backup file.
At the end of the day, all footage (and any other case evidence) should be reviewed in context, including anything unfavorable.
