How Dashcam Video Can Help Your Insurance Claim After a Car Wreck
Car crashes are traumatic events. In the chaos that follows, it can be hard to remember all the details of what happened. That’s why having solid evidence is critical, especially when dealing with an insurance company. Dashcam footage provides an objective record of the events and can be the definitive proof you need to get the compensation you deserve.
The Power of Dashcam Video in Your Mississippi Insurance Claim
Insurance companies often try to downplay accidents and minimize their payouts. Dashcam video provides nearly irrefutable evidence of the wreck itself, showing exactly what happened and who was at fault. This can be a game-changer for your claim, helping to:
- Expedite the claims process: With clear video evidence, there’s less room for debate about what occurred.
- Establish fault: The video can show the actions of all parties involved, proving that you were not at fault.
- Demonstrate the impact: The footage can show the force of the collision, which can be crucial for proving the extent of your injuries and damages.
Dashcams are no longer just for professional drivers. They are an affordable and essential tool for anyone who drives, as most wrecks happen close to home. Think of a dashcam as an “insurance policy on top of your insurance policy.”
Why a Dashcam is Better Than a Cell Phone
While your cell phone is an important tool for documenting the scene after a wreck (taking photos of the cars, the surrounding area, and your injuries), it cannot provide a recording of the accident itself. A dashcam is a compact video camera that continuously records what’s happening in front of your vehicle while it’s in motion. Some models also record the interior or rear-facing view. This continuous, hands-free recording is the only way to capture the wreck as it happens, providing the most powerful piece of evidence possible. We even wrote another article on how to get video footage from a business or gas station.
What to Do Immediately After a Wreck
In the moments following a crash, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Having a plan can help ensure you collect all the necessary information. Here’s what you should do:
- Check for Injuries: First and foremost, check yourself and your passengers for injuries. If anyone is hurt, call 911 immediately.
- Move to a Safe Location: If possible, move your vehicle to the side of the road or a nearby parking lot to prevent another accident.
- Document the Scene: Use your cell phone to take photos and videos of the damage to all vehicles, the license plates, and the overall scene from multiple angles.
- Exchange Information: Get the other driver’s name, phone number, license number, insurance information, and vehicle license plate number.
- Call the Police: Even if the accident seems minor, calling the police to file a report creates an official record of the event.
- Save Your Dashcam Footage: Make sure to save the footage from your dashcam immediately. Most dashcams have a feature to lock or protect the current video file so it isn’t overwritten.
How to Get Dashcam Footage from a Third Party
If you don’t have a dashcam, there may be other ways to get video of your wreck. If you notice a vehicle with a dashcam at the scene or a nearby business with a surveillance camera, you should act quickly to secure the footage. The best way to do this is to:
- Ask for Contact Information: Politely ask the driver or business owner for their contact information.
- File a Police Report: The police report will officially document potential witnesses and video sources.
- Have Your Attorney Intervene: A car accident attorney can formally request or subpoena the footage, ensuring it is preserved and legally obtained for your case.
Should You Still Get Witness Statements?
Yes! While dashcam footage is invaluable, gathering witness statements is still highly recommended. Witnesses can provide additional context and details that may not be captured on video, such as the actions of the parties before the collision or a broader view of the scene. Their statements can corroborate the video evidence and provide a human element that adds depth to the investigation.
Talking to the Insurance Company After a Wreck
After a car accident, you should be very careful about what you say to the insurance company. Adjusters are trained to find ways to minimize their company’s financial liability. Speaking with them without legal guidance could negatively impact your ability to get fair compensation for your injuries. It is always advisable to consult with a skilled attorney first to understand your rights and protect your interests.
Do I Still Need an Attorney if I Have Dashcam Footage?
Even with clear dashcam footage, an attorney is crucial. Dashcam evidence can strengthen your claim, but an experienced car wreck attorney knows how to properly utilize that footage and handle any challenges that may arise. For example, an insurance company might try to discredit the video by claiming weather conditions or other factors compromised its quality. An attorney will ensure the footage is used effectively to support your case and will also handle all communications with the insurance company, allowing you to focus on your recovery.
Is Intersection Footage Available for My Wreck?
In Mississippi, the Mississippi Department of Transportation (MDOT) does not save intersection footage. It is live-streamed and then deleted. If you believe a state-owned camera was near the scene of your wreck, you should contact a legal professional immediately to discuss your options.
The Jones Law Firm: Your Advocate After a Wreck
If you’ve been injured in a car wreck, the Jones Law Firm is here to help. We work to help you get the financial compensation you need under Mississippi state laws. We offer a complimentary initial case review and are confident that our great reputation within the greater Mississippi area will impress you.
For more on this topic, watch our video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hybY2vfmt2o