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In the aftermath of a car accident, evidence can make or break your claim. While witness statements and police reports are important, few tools are as persuasive as dashcam footage. In Georgia, courts and insurance companies often rely on dashcam video to establish fault, confirm traffic conditions, and verify injuries.
But dashcam footage is only valuable if it’s preserved correctly. At Joshua E. Palmer Law Firm, we guide clients in Macon and Warner Robins through the process of protecting and using their dashcam recordings to strengthen personal injury claims. Here are the essential steps you should take.
Step 1: Download the Footage Immediately
Most dashcams operate on a looping system, overwriting old files after a specified period. If you don’t act quickly, crucial footage of the crash could be erased.
- As soon as it’s safe, remove the memory card and transfer the video to your computer.
- Make multiple copies to avoid accidental deletion.
- Label the file with the date, time, and location for easy reference.
Step 2: Use Cloud Backup for Extra Security
Computers and memory cards can be damaged, lost, or stolen. A secure cloud backup ensures your footage remains available even if your devices fail.
- Upload your video to a reputable cloud service (Google Drive, Dropbox, OneDrive, etc.).
- Keep your account secured with strong passwords and, ideally, two-factor authentication.
- Share access only with your lawyer, not with the insurance company directly.
Step 3: Follow Police and Evidence Protocols
If law enforcement investigates your accident in Macon or Warner Robins, officers may request to view or copy your dashcam footage. Cooperate, but remember:
- Provide a copy, not your original device.
- Ask the officer to note in the report that the dashcam video exists.
- Do not alter or edit the video before turning it over. Tampering could compromise your credibility.
Step 4: Work With Your Lawyer
Dashcam footage can be incredibly persuasive, but how it’s handled matters. An experienced attorney can ensure your video is admissible and used effectively. At Joshua E. Palmer Law Firm, we:
- Review footage to assess its strength as evidence
- Preserve original files in compliance with legal requirements
- Use dashcam recordings during negotiations and in court
- Protect clients from improper requests by insurers
Tip: Never send footage directly to the other driver’s insurance company without first consulting your lawyer. Doing so could allow them to misinterpret or misuse the evidence against you.
Step 5: Keep Backup Copies for the Long Haul
Car accident claims in Georgia can take months or even years to resolve. Make sure your dashcam footage lasts as long as your case does.
- Store files on an external hard drive or flash drive in addition to cloud storage
- Verify your copies play correctly on multiple devices
- Do not rely on the dashcam itself as your only storage method
Why Proper Preservation Matters
In many cases, dashcam footage can:
- Prove fault when drivers dispute what happened
- Support medical claims by showing the severity of impact
- Counter false accusations from the other driver or witnesses
- Speed up settlements by providing undeniable evidence
Without proper preservation, this crucial piece of evidence could be lost, and with it, your strongest support for compensation.
Protect Your Claim With Joshua E. Palmer
At Joshua E. Palmer Law Firm, we help car accident victims in Macon and Warner Robins navigate every step of the claims process, from securing dashcam footage to pursuing maximum compensation. Our team ensures your evidence is preserved, presented, and used effectively.
Contact Joshua E. Palmer Law Firm today for a free consultation and let us help you protect your rights after a crash.
