Are Dashboard Cameras Legal?
Technology has become a part of our day-to-day lives to such a degree that most of us don’t even think about it. We can take quality videos on our phones just as easily as we can check the security cameras at home and remain connected with loved ones through video calls. It makes sense then that many people would start using this technology in their vehicles in the form of dashboard cameras. Not only is using dashcams legal (when done in compliance with state law), it can actually play a pivotal role in legal proceedings in the event of a car crash.
What are Dashcams?
Dashboard cameras, or dashcams as they are commonly called, have become a popular addition in many vehicles, although in prior years, only commercial vehicles and police officers utilized this technology. Dashcams are small cameras, usually attached to the dashboard that provide video footage of both the interior and exterior of the car. These cameras can connect to a driver’s phone, so that footage becomes accessible immediately after being uploaded, or to a storage card.
The Benefits of a Dashcam
There are a lot of benefits to using dashboard cameras, including:
- Providing evidence in the event of a car crash;
- Encouraging motorists to drive safely; and
- Providing an extra element of security against thefts and vandalism.
Fortunately, besides being beneficial to motorists, dashcams are also perfectly legal in Florida, as long as drivers follow certain rules when installing them.
Florida’s Dashcam Rules
While having a dashcam in your car is legal in Florida, there are certain requirements with which motorists must comply when installing them. For instance, these cameras should always be installed in such a way that they don’t obstruct a driver’s view of the road. Models should be chosen for safety and professional installation is always encouraged. It’s also important to remember that those whose dashcam systems record sounds will need to notify any other occupants of their vehicles that they are being recorded. Finally, motorists who use dash cam recordings to help establish liability for an accident should always avoid cropping, zooming in or out on the footage, or using post-editing software, all of which can make it appear as though a video file was altered. An experienced attorney will be well-versed in how to handle this type of evidence.
Here to Help You Determine the Cause of Your Crash
If you were injured in a car accident and the footage of the crash is contained on your dashcam or you believe that the other driver had such a device installed in his or her vehicle, that recording could be critical in helping you recover compensation after your crash. We can assess your footage, make sure that it is recorded safely, and if necessary present it as evidence in your case. To learn more about the kinds of evidence that could assist you in filing a successful car accident claim, please call Boone & Davis at 954-566-9919 and set up a meeting with one of our dedicated Fort Lauderdale auto accident attorneys today.
Sources:
cars.usnews.com/cars-trucks/features/should-i-get-dashcam
cars.usnews.com/cars-trucks/features/should-i-get-dashcam
