Dash cams can be helpful tools for all drivers. These devices record your surroundings as you drive, providing footage of what happened during an accident. It can also provide evidence showing you didn’t commit a traffic violation. Imagine driving to work one day when you get into an accident. Thankfully, no one gets hurt, but the other driver claims you caused the wreck. In reality, the other driver was responsible for the accident, but the police officer doesn’t believe you. If you have a dashboard camera, you will have dash cam footage showing that the other driver was at fault, not you. If you don’t have dash cam video, it would be your word against theirs, which means you could face the consequences of an action you didn’t cause. Continue reading this article to learn more about dashboard cameras and how they can help you deal with an auto accident claim or a traffic violation.
What is a Dash Cam?
A dash cam is a small camera that is connected to your car. Most dash cams are easy to mount on your dashboard, windshield, or rear-view mirror. Dash cams work by capturing the road ahead and other drivers around you as you drive. Dash cams are helpful because you can use video footage as evidence when fighting a ticket or even a car accident claim. You can also have your camera mounted to face your rear window, giving you a different point of view. Many dash cams are relatively inexpensive, and most are easy to use. Gadgets like the Garmin Dash Cam Mini are affordable and record high-resolution footage on a camera the size of a car key. Some even have built-in GPS. Even the best dash cams with the highest price tags can save you thousands of dollars if you ever receive a traffic ticket or get in a car wreck.
Why You Should Get a Dash Cam
The main benefit of using a dash cam is it provides footage of what happened when an incident occurred. All too often, drivers get wrongfully accused of an accident. Usually, police officers will create an accident report and decide who was at fault, but sometimes the fault isn’t clear. This leads to instances where the officer determines that you were responsible for what happened, even if the other driver was at fault. Dash cam videos can prevent this from happening since they show footage of what actually occurred to insurance companies in the case of a car crash or moving violation. Due to this, these many dash cams can save you time and money. Another benefit is that they can clear your record. If you have proof that you didn’t commit a traffic violation or that you didn’t cause an accident, you won’t have those infractions on your driving record or increased premiums from your insurance company.
What Are the Disadvantages of a Dash Cam?
While dash cams are helpful tools, there are also some disadvantages. For example, a front-facing camera might not always be able to provide complete coverage of what happened or show the full extent of car accidents or instances of reckless drivers, for example. Still, an attorney can use your video evidence to fight your charges. Another disadvantage is that since a dash cam records everything, your actions can be caught on tape, even while in a parked car. Be mindful of your behavior because your footage can also be used against you. For example, if you did cause an accident or commit a traffic violation, your dash cam will show that you were at fault. Always remember to drive safely and follow the Louisiana traffic laws to avoid causing a crash or committing a traffic infraction.
Protect Yourself Against Louisiana Traffic Violations
Dash cameras are beneficial devices that can protect you from wrongful accusations in vehicle accidents, traffic violations, and other vehicle-related issues. You can use the footage on your dash cam to prove your innocence, saving you time, money, and effort. You don’t have to face the consequences of a crime you didn’t commit if you have solid evidence to show that you were not at fault. Of course, another helpful resource is to consult with a Louisiana traffic violation attorney. The Law Office of Heather C. Ford will help you fight your ticket to get your case dismissed or your penalties reduced.