Traffic incidents occur in a second and can leave the driver stressed and flustered about what went bad. Clear and indisputable evidence may be vital for insurance claims, litigation processes, or justice. Here is an elaborate guide on how to capture evidence in case of a traffic incident.
1. Install A High-Quality Dash Cam
Generally, one of the most helpful tools in capturing evidence is a high-quality dashcam (HD Mirror Cam). Check out some key points to look for:
- HD Resolution: The dash cam should record at a minimum resolution of 1080p HD for crystal-clear videos.
- Wide FOV— a wide-angle lens of at least 140 degrees will see more around the scene.
- Night Vision: Records clear videos during low-light conditions.
- Loop Recording—Recording of old footage is overwritten to ensure continued recording.
HD Mirror Cam offers high-definition video recording, a wide field of view, and night vision, ensuring you never miss crucial details.
2. Know The Features Of Your Dash Cam
Familiarize yourself with your dash cam’s features and functionalities. This includes understanding how to:
- Access Recorded Footage: Quickly retrieve and review video files.
- Adjust Camera Settings: Optimize resolution, exposure, and other settings for the best recording quality.
- Utilize GPS: Track your speed and location, which can be vital in disputes.
3. Position Your Dash Cam Correctly
Proper positioning is crucial for capturing comprehensive footage in an HD Mirror Cam. Mount your dash cam behind the rearview mirror, ensuring it has an unobstructed view of the road. The angle should be adjusted to capture both the road and the surrounding environment.
4. Ensure Continuous Power Supply
For a dash cam to be effective, it must always be powered. Consider using a hardwiring kit to connect your dash cam directly to your vehicle’s fuse box. This setup ensures the dash cam powers on with the car and can also enable parking mode to capture incidents when your vehicle is stationary.
5. Capture Additional Evidence with Your Smartphone
In addition to utilizing dash cam footage, it is advisable to capture supplementary evidence using your smartphone. Here are key steps to follow:
- Photos: Ensure that you take clear and comprehensive photographs of all vehicles involved, including license plates, the surrounding area, and any visible damages or injuries.
- Videos: Record a video of the scene to provide a broader context beyond what can be captured in still photographs.
- Voice Notes: Use your smartphone to record statements from witnesses or to document your account of the incident while details remain fresh.
6. Document Important Details
Immediately following the incident, it is essential to document the following information:
- Time and Date: Accurately note the exact time and date of the incident.
- Location: Record the precise location of the incident, including street names and prominent landmarks.
- Weather Conditions: Document any relevant weather conditions at the time, such as rain, fog, or other atmospheric factors.
- Traffic Signals: Make a note of the state of any traffic light stop signs or other traffic control devices that were present at the time of the incident.
7. Gather Witness Statements
If there are witnesses to the incident, request their contact information and obtain a brief statement regarding their observations. You can provide an impartial account that may corroborate your version of events.
8. Inform Authorities and File a Report
Contact the police to report the incident, especially if there are injuries or significant damage. Obtain a copy of the police report, which can be valuable evidence for insurance claims and legal proceedings.
9. Preserve Evidence Safely
Ensure all collected evidence is stored securely:
- Backs-Up Dash Cam Footage: Transfer important video files to a computer or cloud storage to prevent loss.
- Organize Photos and Videos: Keep all photos and videos in a dedicated folder with clear labels.
- Keep Documentation Handy: Store all written notes, witness statements, and police reports together for easy access.
10. Use Advanced Features of Your HD Mirror Cam
The HD Mirror Cam offers several advanced features to enhance evidence capture:
- Rearview Mirror Turns Into A Camera: Capture incidents without any hassle; data retrieving is also very easy.
- Parking Mode: Record video while your car is parked, triggered by motion or impact.
- Auto Sensing: Automatically saves footage when a collision is detected, preventing important files from being overwritten.
Wrap-up
Capturing clear and comprehensive evidence in the event of a traffic incident can significantly impact the outcome of insurance claims and legal disputes. By installing a high-quality dash cam like the HD Mirror Cam, positioning it correctly, ensuring continuous power, and supplementing footage with smartphone evidence, you can build a robust case. Remember to document all relevant details, gather witness statements, and preserve all evidence securely. By following these steps, you can ensure you are well-prepared to handle any traffic incident effectively.
