The Importance of Dashcam Evidence in Truck Accident Claims
Dashcam footage has become an invaluable asset in the realm of truck accident investigations. One of the primary reasons for its importance is the clarity it provides in determining fault.
The ability to capture traffic violations in real-time makes dashcam footage a powerful tool in accident investigations. This evidence can be used to support claims and refute false accusations, ensuring that the right parties are held accountable.
Also, the presence of dashcams can act as a deterrent for risky behaviors, encouraging drivers to adhere to traffic laws and drive safely. In many cases, the footage captured by dashcams can be the difference between a successful claim and a prolonged legal battle, making it an indispensable asset in the investigation process.
Below, we outline some of the specific ways that dashcam evidence can strengthen your case:
Determining What Led to the Accident
Attorneys and accident reconstructionists can use this footage to piece together the sequence of events that led to the accident, providing a clear and objective account of what transpired. The visual evidence captured by the dashcam can be used to identify key factors such as the speed of the vehicles involved, the timing of traffic signals, and the actions of the drivers.
This information is crucial in determining the cause of the accident and establishing liability. For example, if a truck is involved in a rear-end collision, the dashcam footage can show whether the truck driver was following too closely or if the other vehicle suddenly braked without warning.
The importance of timestamps and GPS data in dashcam footage cannot be overstated. These elements provide additional layers of information that can corroborate other evidence. Timestamps ensure that the footage is accurately synchronized with other data, such as traffic signal timings and witness statements.
GPS data, on the other hand, provides a detailed account of the truck's movements, including its speed and route. This information can be instrumental in verifying the accuracy of the dashcam footage and ensuring that the reconstruction is as precise as possible.
Identifying Traffic Violations
One of the most significant ways dashcam footage is used in truck accident investigations is to identify traffic violations. Dashcams can capture a wide range of traffic infractions, such as running red lights, speeding, and illegal lane changes. For instance, if a truck is involved in a collision due to speeding, the dashcam footage can show the speed of the vehicle, helping to establish whether the driver was exceeding the speed limit.
Determining Driver Behavior
Dashcam footage is also instrumental in analyzing driver behavior, which can be a critical factor in truck accident investigations. The footage can reveal signs of driver fatigue, distraction, or impairment, providing valuable insights into the cause of the accident.
For example, if a truck driver is involved in a collision due to drowsiness, the dashcam footage can show signs of fatigue, such as yawning or nodding off. Similarly, if a driver is distracted by their phone or other activities, the footage can capture these behaviors, helping to establish whether distraction played a role in the accident.
Types of Dashcams Used in Commercial Trucks
Commercial truck drivers are not required to have dashcams. However, many companies are installing them in their trucks to promote safe driving practices. Common types of dashcams include:
- Front-facing dashcams are the most common type of dashcams used in trucks. These cameras are typically mounted on the windshield and are designed to capture everything that happens in front of the vehicle. The primary function of front-facing dashcams is to record the road conditions, traffic signals, and the behavior of other drivers. This type of footage is particularly useful in cases where the truck driver claims that they were not at fault. For instance, if they say the other vehicle suddenly swerved into their lane, the front-facing dashcam can provide clear evidence of whether that occurred or if they failed to notice the driver switched lanes earlier. Dashcams can also show what the truck driver did
- Dual-facing dashcams take the capabilities of front-facing cameras a step further by capturing both the road ahead and the driver inside the cabin. These cameras are equipped with two lenses: one facing outward to record the external environment and another facing inward to monitor the driver's actions. This dual perspective provides a more holistic view of the events leading up to an accident. For example, if a truck accident occurs due to driver fatigue, the inward-facing camera can capture signs of drowsiness, such as yawning or nodding off, which can be crucial evidence in determining the cause of the accident.
- Driver-facing dashcams, as the name suggests, face the driver and record movement within the cabin. These types of dashcams are often installed by companies who wish to monitor their drivers occasionally and make sure they are adhering to safety protocols. However, as we mentioned, this footage can help establish driver behavior.
Injured in a Truck Accident? Contact Us!
At Pierce, Sloan, Kennedy & Early LLC, we understand the critical role that dashcam evidence can play in truck accident investigations. Our experienced team of legal professionals is here to help you navigate the complexities of your case and ensure that you have reliable representation. Let us help you secure the evidence you need to support your claim and achieve a fair resolution.
Get in touch with our team by calling (843) 968-0886.