The Role of Dashcams in Car Accident Claims
Car accidents can leave you shaken, confused, and unsure of how to protect your rights. When the dust settles, one of the most important questions becomes: how do you prove what actually happened?
While police reports, witness statements, and physical evidence all play a role, dashcam footage is increasingly being recognized as a powerful tool in car accident claims. Whether mounted on your windshield or dashboard, dashcams capture events as they unfold in real time—and in many cases, they can make a huge difference in how an accident claim is handled.
This article explains the role of dashcams in Texas car accident cases, how insurers and courts view dashcam evidence, and what you need to know about using dashcam footage to protect your claim.
What Is a Dashcam?
A dashcam, or dashboard camera, is a small recording device typically mounted on the windshield or dashboard of a vehicle. Most dashcams record video continuously while you drive, and some also capture audio, GPS data, and speed information.
Dashcams are growing in popularity in Texas and across the United States. According to Statista, the global dashcam market is expected to grow to over $5 billion by 2026, largely due to rising consumer awareness of how dashcams can protect drivers against false claims and support legal cases.
Why Dashcam Footage Matters After a Car Accident
After an accident, your word may be pitted against another driver’s, and even police reports may not fully capture the events leading up to the crash. This is where dashcam footage can be invaluable.
Benefits of Dashcam Evidence
Clear Visual Record – Video footage can show exactly how the accident occurred, including speed, traffic signals, lane changes, and impact.
Objective Evidence – Unlike human memory, which can fade or become distorted, dashcam recordings provide a neutral, time-stamped record.
Protection Against Fraud – Dashcams can help defend you against staged accidents or false liability claims.
Supports Insurance Claims – Insurers often rely heavily on evidence. Clear footage can speed up claims processing and reduce disputes.
Courtroom Value – If your case goes to trial, dashcam footage can be presented as evidence to help a jury understand what really happened.
Are Dashcams Legal in Texas?
Yes, dashcams are legal in Texas, provided they do not obstruct your view of the road. Texas law allows drivers to use dashcams as long as they are mounted in a way that does not interfere with safe driving.
It’s important to:
Place the dashcam in a discreet location, such as behind the rearview mirror.
Ensure that audio recording complies with Texas’ “one-party consent” law, which allows you to record conversations as long as one person involved consents (in this case, you).
How Insurance Companies View Dashcam Footage
Insurance companies are increasingly open to reviewing dashcam evidence. While they are not legally required to accept it, many adjusters find it useful because it provides direct insight into the accident.
However, dashcam footage can cut both ways. If the video shows you were speeding, distracted, or otherwise negligent, the insurance company may use that against you.
This is why it is important to have a personal injury lawyer review any dashcam evidence before you submit it to an insurer.
Dashcams and Comparative Negligence in Texas
Texas follows a modified comparative negligence rule in car accident cases. This means:
You can recover compensation as long as you are less than 51% at fault for the crash.
Your damages may be reduced by the percentage of fault assigned to you.
For example, if your damages total $100,000 but you are found to be 30% at fault, you could recover $70,000.
Dashcam footage can be critical in establishing fault percentages. A clear recording of another driver running a red light or making an unsafe lane change could reduce the share of fault assigned to you, strengthening your claim for compensation.
Common Accident Scenarios Where Dashcams Help
Intersection Accidents – Proving who had the right of way.
Rear-End Collisions – Showing whether the lead driver stopped suddenly or if the following driver was tailgating.
Hit-and-Run Crashes – Capturing license plate details or identifying features of the fleeing vehicle.
Distracted Driving – Documenting cell phone use, weaving, or other signs of distraction.
Drunk Driving Accidents – Providing visual evidence of erratic driving prior to impact.
Limitations of Dashcam Evidence
While dashcams are powerful, they are not perfect. Some limitations include:
Angle of View – The camera may not capture side or rear impacts.
Lighting Conditions – Nighttime or bad weather can obscure details.
Footage Retention – Some cameras overwrite old recordings unless saved promptly.
Partial Story – Dashcam video shows what happened but may not capture every relevant factor, such as road conditions or mechanical failures.
Preserving Dashcam Evidence After an Accident
If your dashcam recorded your crash, preserving that footage is crucial. Here’s what you should do:
Save the File Immediately – Transfer the video to a secure device or cloud storage.
Create Backup Copies – Keep at least one backup in case of device failure.
Do Not Alter the Video – Edited or modified files may be inadmissible in court.
Provide It to Your Lawyer – Let an experienced attorney decide how and when to submit it to insurers or the court.
Should You Invest in a Dashcam?
For many Texas drivers, the answer is yes. The cost of a reliable dashcam is relatively low compared to the potential value it provides in protecting your rights after an accident. A quality dashcam can range from $50 to $300 depending on features like dual-facing cameras, GPS tracking, and high-definition recording.
Think of a dashcam as a small investment in peace of mind—evidence that can protect you from false claims and help secure fair compensation if you’re involved in a crash.
How a Personal Injury Lawyer Can Help With Dashcam Evidence
Even the clearest dashcam video doesn’t guarantee a fair settlement. Insurance companies may still try to minimize payouts, argue about fault, or dismiss your injuries. A personal injury lawyer can:
Review your dashcam footage to determine how it supports your claim.
Ensure the video is properly preserved and authenticated.
Use it strategically in negotiations with insurance adjusters.
Present it effectively in court if necessary.
At Carrollton Injury Law, we understand how to use technology, evidence, and the law together to pursue the compensation you deserve.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dashcams in Car Accident Claims
Do I have to share my dashcam footage with the insurance company?
Not immediately. You should consult with a personal injury lawyer first. Footage may help your case, but if it shows you in a negative light, it could harm your claim.
Can dashcam footage be used in Texas courts?
Yes, dashcam footage can be admissible as evidence, provided it is authentic and relevant to the case.
What if my dashcam shows me making a small mistake?
Texas’ comparative negligence system means you can still recover damages if you are less than 51% at fault. A lawyer can help present the footage in the best possible light.
Will a dashcam lower my car insurance rates?
Not typically in Texas. While some countries and insurers offer discounts, most U.S. insurance companies do not. However, dashcams can help resolve disputes faster, which may prevent premium increases after an accident.
Should I buy a front and rear dashcam?
Yes, if possible. Dual-facing dashcams capture a broader view, which can be especially helpful in rear-end or side-impact crashes.
Conclusion: Dashcams as a Silent Witness
When it comes to car accident claims, evidence is everything. A dashcam acts as a silent witness, recording events as they happen and protecting you from false claims or unfair blame.
While dashcam footage is not a substitute for skilled legal representation, it can strengthen your case and improve your chances of pursuing maximum compensation.
If you’ve been injured in a Texas car accident, whether or not you have dashcam footage, don’t face the insurance company alone. An experienced attorney can review your case, protect your rights, and help guide you through the claims process.
At Carrollton Injury Law, we put the personal back into personal injury law. If you or a loved one has been injured, now is the time to take action.
