Can a Dashcam Help Your Personal Injury Case in Washington?

Dashboard cameras, commonly known as dashcams, are becoming more common across Washington State. Whether installed by cautious drivers, rideshare operators, or commercial fleet managers, dash cameras serve as a silent witness to the events that unfold on the road. In the aftermath of a car accident, dashcam footage can play a critical role in verifying what happened and supporting a personal injury claim.

But dashcams aren’t just about proving fault. They can also help clarify liability, document property damage, and resolve disputes with insurance companies. At the same time, the use of dashcam video raises questions about legality, privacy, and how such footage may influence the outcome of a personal injury case in Washington.

In this post, we’ll explore the legal implications of using dashcams, how to get the most value out of your device, and when dashcam evidence is most likely to affect your car accident case.

Are Dashcams Legal in Washington?

Yes, dashcams are legal in Washington State, but certain privacy laws must be observed. Washington is a two-party consent state under RCW 9.73.030, meaning all parties to a private conversation must consent to audio recording. If your dashcam captures audio of conversations inside the vehicle, this may create legal concerns unless everyone being recorded is aware and has consented.

Video recording in public areas, including roads and highways, is generally permissible. Recording the outside environment through your windshield, such as traffic conditions, red light violations, or license plates, is allowed because there is no reasonable expectation of privacy in public spaces. However, always ensure your dashcam setup complies with both federal and state laws to avoid unintended legal issues.

Best Practices for Using Dashcams

To ensure your dashcam recording is clear, reliable, and admissible if needed, consider these best practices:

• Proper Placement: Install the camera near the center of your windshield without obstructing your view. Washington law prohibits windshield obstructions that impair the driver’s line of sight.
• Clear Video Footage: Choose a dashcam that records in at least 1080p resolution with night vision to capture critical details like road signs or license plates.
• Maintain the Device: Regularly check your dash camera for functionality. Replace memory cards periodically, update firmware when available, and test recording features to prevent data loss.
• Audio Considerations: If your device records audio, inform any passengers and secure their consent. Alternatively, disable the audio recording feature to avoid legal complications.
• Secure Storage: Save important video evidence immediately after an incident. Dashcams with loop recording may overwrite old footage within days.

Adhering to these guidelines helps ensure your video evidence is both clear and legally defensible.

When Dashcam Evidence is Most Valuable

Dashcam video is particularly helpful in personal injury cases involving:

1. Hit-and-Run Accidents

In hit-and-run situations, capturing the other vehicle’s license plate or identifying features is often key to tracking down the driver. Dashcam evidence can support police reports and assist law enforcement in locating the at-fault party.

2. Red Light and Stop Sign Violations

When someone runs a red light or fails to stop, resulting in a car crash, your dashboard camera can offer irrefutable video footage of the incident. This may be especially useful if the other driver denies responsibility or gives conflicting statements.

3. Disputed Rear-End Collisions

While rear-end collisions often seem straightforward, liability can still be challenged. Dashcam recordings may show unsafe lane changes, sudden stops, or other contributing factors that clarify fault.

4. Conflicting Witness Testimony

In personal injury lawsuits, witness testimony can vary significantly. Having clear video evidence allows attorneys, judges, and insurance companies to rely on objective proof rather than differing recollections.

5. Bad Weather or Obscured Conditions

If the road was slick or visibility was poor, video footage can support your version of events and show that you were driving responsibly under the conditions.

Dashcam evidence can tip the scales during insurance claims, settlement negotiations, or even a full-blown personal injury lawsuit. When admissible, this footage can serve as strong evidence that supports your side of the story.

Case Examples of Dashcams Influencing Settlements

Case Example 1: Rear-End Crash in Seattle
A Seattle driver was rear-ended on I-5 during rush hour. The other driver claimed the victim had slammed on the brakes without warning. However, dashcam video revealed consistent traffic speed, showing the other driver was following too closely. The insurance company accepted liability, and the injured driver received a fair settlement for medical bills, property damage, and time missed from work.

Case Example 2: Disputed Red Light Violation
In Bellevue, a motorist ran a red light and collided with a vehicle lawfully entering the intersection. The at-fault driver denied the accusation, but the victim’s dashcam video clearly showed the green light in their favor and the impact moments later. This video evidence led to a quicker resolution and full compensation without the need for court.

Case Example 3: Hit-and-Run Incident
A driver in Tacoma was sideswiped by a speeding vehicle that fled the scene. Thanks to their dashboard camera, police were able to identify the license plate. The dashcam footage was instrumental in locating the driver and recovering compensation through their auto insurance policy.

Potential Downsides of Dashcam Footage

While dashcams can help build a strong case, they can also present risks:

• If the footage shows the driver was distracted, speeding, or partially at fault, it may hurt a car accident claim.
• Dashcam video might be subpoenaed by the opposing party if it’s relevant to the case.
• In some cases, failing to disclose relevant dashcam footage may raise credibility issues.

For this reason, always speak with a personal injury attorney before sharing any footage with insurance companies or third parties. A lawyer can assess whether the video strengthens or complicates your case.

Conclusion: Are Dashcams Worth It?

Dashboard cameras are a valuable tool for many Washington drivers. Whether you’re dealing with a car accident, a hit-and-run, or facing an uphill battle with insurance companies, dashcam evidence can provide clarity, peace of mind, and potentially a better outcome during the claims process.

Still, dashcams are not without legal considerations. Between state laws, privacy concerns, and audio recording rules, it’s important to know the rules before relying on your device in a personal injury case.

At Brumley Law Firm, we assist clients across Washington with the legal issues that follow auto accidents. Our attorneys are familiar with using tools like dashcam footage to help pursue compensation for clients in car accident cases. We take a client-focused approach and are always here to offer support and guidance, starting with a free consultation.

If you’ve been involved in a car crash and are unsure whether your dashcam video can help your claim, consider speaking with a car accident lawyer. You don’t have to go through this alone. Speak with our team to better understand your legal options after an accident.

Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only and does not establish an attorney-client relationship. Always seek legal advice from a licensed professional regarding your specific situation.