Why A Dashcam is Important 

While a dashcam might not stop an accident from happening, it can serve as a pivotal tool if you’re involved in a collision. If you're curious whether a dashcam is worth it or how it can protect you after a crash, our attorneys break down the various benefits and considerations.  

At Denning Law Firm, LLC, we strive to protect the rights of car accident victims across Missouri and Kansas. Our father-daughter legal team brings decades of combined experience and an unwavering commitment to every case.  

We offer trusted legal guidance with an approachable style that prioritizes your needs. Located in Overland Park, Kansas, we serve clients throughout Missouri and Kansas in Kansas City, Olathe, Shawnee, Leawood, and Lenexa. Reach out today to learn how a dashcam can help your case.

What Is a Dashcam and How Does It Work?

A dashcam is a small, windshield-mounted camera that continuously records your driving. Some models include additional features, like GPS tracking, night vision, or motion sensors, that make them even more versatile. These devices typically connect to your vehicle's power source, turning on automatically when the engine starts.

They record footage onto a memory card, often in a loop, meaning older footage is often overwritten by new recordings unless it is saved manually. Advanced models may also synchronize with your smartphone or cloud storage, making it easier to access and manage your videos. 

The real power of a dashcam lies in its ability to capture real-time footage, often immediately before, during, and after an accident. Think of it as an objective witness that is unfiltered and unbiased. In car accidents, where fault can often be contested, dashcam footage could make or break a case.  

Five Reasons a Dashcam Matters

A dashcam can be a surprisingly impactful tool for drivers. From protecting against false claims to making insurance processes easier, here’s why every driver should consider installing one.  

1. It Helps Determine Fault in Car Accidents  

Deciding who’s at fault is often one of the most contentious aspects of car accidents. Witness statements can conflict, and physical evidence can sometimes be inconclusive.  

A dashcam captures precisely what happened, leaving less room for ambiguity. Footage from a dashcam can strengthen your claim by providing a clear visual timeline of events, especially in rear-end collisions or disputes over red-light violations.  

2. It Protects Against Fraudulent Claims  

Sometimes, accidents can be staged to collect fraudulent insurance payouts. These “accidents” often involve quick, deliberate stops to create scenarios that make the other driver appear at fault. A dashcam protects you by documenting these actions and exposing potential deception.  

3. It Speeds Up Insurance Claims  

Dealing with insurance companies after an accident can often be a massive headache. Dashcam footage can streamline this process by providing clear, indisputable evidence of what occurred. It can also simplify negotiations and help prevent drawn-out disputes, saving you time and stress.  

4. It Monitors Young or New Drivers  

If you’re a parent with a teenager who just got their license, a dashcam offers extra peace of mind. You can objectively review their driving habits or address any concerns related to their trips.  

5. It Records Hit-and-Runs and Parking Lot Incidents  

Most modern dashcams can operate even when your car is parked, protecting against hit-and-run accidents or theft. If someone damages your vehicle while parked, the footage can help identify the perpetrator and assist with insurance reimbursement.  

Missouri Laws Governing Dashcams

In Missouri, you should be aware of the rules concerning video and audio recording. Missouri is a “one-party consent” state, meaning that as long as you are part of the conversation being recorded, you don’t need the consent of the other parties.  For example, if your dashcam records sound during an interaction, as long as you were involved, the recording is generally considered lawful.  

Additionally, Missouri doesn’t restrict dashcam use in personal vehicles. However, the placement of the dashcam must not obstruct the driver’s view.  While dashcam footage can strengthen a personal injury claim, it’s always best to discuss its use with an attorney to determine how it aligns with your case.  

Kansas Laws Governing Dashcams

Dashcam laws in Kansas are slightly different. Kansas is also a “one-party consent” state for audio recording, so you don’t need permission from other parties if you’re involved in the conversation that is being recorded.  

Kansas also does not prohibit installing or using a dashcam in your vehicle. However, drivers must make sure the dashcam’s placement does not block their view of the road. This is critical for safety and compliance with traffic laws.  

Kansas courts often see dashcam evidence as valuable, especially for determining liability. Discussing the footage with an attorney helps ensure it’s presented most effectively for your case.  

Car Accident Attorneys Serving Missouri and Kansas

At Denning Law Firm, LLC, our father-daughter team is committed to standing by you throughout your case. We will fight relentlessly to uphold your rights and amplify your voice, whether through agreeing to a settlement or a trial.

Located in Overland Park, Kansas, we serve clients throughout Kansas City, Olathe, Shawnee, Leawood, and Lenexa by delivering passionate and results-driven counsel. If you’ve been involved in a car accident, contact us today to schedule a consultation.