When drivers are reckless and ignore traffic signals, it’s not only frustrating – it’s also dangerous. The rules of the road exist for a reason, and when they’re violated, it can lead to serious accidents with extensive injuries and property damage.

If you are ever hit in an accident, a dash cam can help prove fault and expedite an insurance claim. This article dives into more detail about how a dash cam can help you in an accident.

Reckless Driving Defined

We all know reckless driving when we see it, but Florida actually defines what reckless driving is in a statute. This allows a police officer to cite someone for reckless driving, and a reckless driving charge can also help prove the other driver caused the accident.

Examples of reckless driving include:

• Speeding
• Distracted driving
• Texting while driving
• Expressing anger and aggression (road rage)
• Tailgating
• Failing to use turn signals
• Ignoring traffic lights
• Unsafe lane changes

If the driver is cited, the incident becomes part of that person’s driving record, and that could be used as evidence of prior risky behavior on the road. However, it’s also a good idea to collect evidence of reckless driving at the scene by having a dash cam.

Using a Dash Cam as Evidence of Reckless Driving

You might be wondering if it’s legal to have a dash cam record other people’s behavior, especially since these drivers have not given consent to be recorded.

There are two things to be aware of:

1. In Florida, dash cam video footage is admissible as evidence if it is related to the incident and can be authenticated. However, it is illegal to record someone speaking without their consent. For this reason, you may want to use a dash cam that does not record audio. If your dash cam does have audio, consider turning off that feature when driving. 
2. You can have a dash cam if it does not obstruct your view of the road. This means you must take care when mounting your dash cam to ensure it does not impair your driving. There are several ways to safely install a dash cam, including using your vehicle’s cigarette lighter port to install a USB.

Other Benefits of Owning a Dash Cam

Dash cams can provide drivers with the following benefits:

• Submit evidence about an accident to your insurance company
• Use your dash cam to protect your vehicle from theft or vandals
• Monitor teenage drivers in your household with dash cam surveillance
• Help identify and locate the driver in a hit-and-run incident
• Prevent insurance fraud if someone intentionally causes an accident to collect money

How an Experienced Florida Accident Attorney Can Help Your Case

For a minimal investment, a dash cam can help you prove your innocence in an accident or even help catch a thief. If you’ve been involved in an accident, attorney Shannon J. Sagan, P.A. offers experienced legal guidance. Contact us at 561-DASHCAM (352-5299) for a free consultation.