Dash cams are popular vehicle technology, but are they helpful for filming crashes? The following article explores the use of dash cams in Colorado and the evidentiary value of dash cam footage in Colorado car accidents.
If you have specific questions about dash cam footage and how it may be used as evidence in your car accident claim, contact an experienced Denver car accident lawyer.
What are Dash Cams?
Dash cams or event data recorders are any type of camera mounted on board a vehicle that digitally records images while the vehicle is in motion or the camera is on. Video may be stored in the recorder or sent to another location.
Advanced dash cams monitor vehicle speed and location. The placement of a dash cam affects the images captured by the device.
Dash cams mounted on windshields may or may not record usable video evidence of a car accident. It depends on the angle and location of the oncoming car.
Are Dash Cams Legal in Colorado?
Dash cams are legal in Colorado. However, there are restrictions regarding where they may be mounted. Drivers may not mount a dash cam where it restricts their view of the road or causes a glare or distraction to oncoming drivers.
Police officers may not seize a driver’s dash cam at a traffic stop. However, dash cam footage can be subpoenaed in the event of a car accident.
Subpoenas are court-ordered requests for documentation and must be complied with to avoid serious penalties. Never attempt to tamper with dash cam footage even if it may be used as evidence against you in an accident.
Consult with a car accident attorney to discuss your legal options for compliance.
The Pros of Dash Cams for Filming Crashes
In cases where liability is disputed, dash cams can provide valuable crash scene evidence. A dash cam may capture another vehicle approaching a driver and the angle of impact. It may also record the license plate information of a hit-and-run driver.
Even when a dash cam does not record an accident, it may take vital footage of:
- Weather conditions;
- Road hazards; and
- Visual information after the crash.
Dash cam footage may not be the primary source of evidence for a crash, but a means of reinforcing the testimony of eyewitnesses and police and medical reports.
The Cons of Dash Cams for Filming Crashes
Colorado follows a modified comparative negligence system. This means that both parties to a crash may be assigned a percentage of liability for the accident.
Dash cam footage may be used as evidence to prove an injury victim was partially responsible for the crash. Any compensation the injured party receives will be reduced by their percentage of liability for the accident.
Contact an Experienced Denver Car Accident Attorney Today
Speak with an experienced Denver car accident attorney about dash cam evidence and the evidence-gathering process by calling Dulin McQuinn Young. We offer a complimentary car accident consultation and can help set your mind at ease about your accident claim.
Dulin McQuinn Young is known for success in the courtroom and exceptional results. We want our clients to receive the best legal representation possible and dedicate ourselves to obtaining maximum compensation for their injuries.
Reach out to Dulin McQuinn Young in Denver today to schedule your no-obligation claim review.