Can Helmet Cam Footage be Used in a Criminal Case?

Helmet cams offer cyclists and bikers a convenient way to capture their ride, allowing them to relive their most exciting moments on the road. Whether you're freewheeling down the countryside or weaving through city streets, an inclination to preserve those treasured memories is only natural. 

But that's far from the only reason for the skyrocketing popularity of helmet cams. Many people buy them solely because they serve as a valuable tool in situations where the law is involved. Perhaps you can relate to the frustration that comes with being cut off by a reckless driver, or being accused of a crime you didn't commit while riding.

In any case, you'll be glad to know that the helmet cam footage you have recorded can indeed be used as a powerful piece of evidence. Following is some advice to ensure your recordings are put to their best use. 

Claiming Your Innocence

Helmet cam footage can change the dynamics of a case immensely, eliminating the possibility for those involved to play the futile blame-game. Without sufficient evidence to dispute it, the party responsible could have their version of the incident considered, regardless of how untrue it may be. 

Another benefit is that helmet cams serve as better witnesses than people. Most of the latter will be reluctant to come forward in fear of having to spend too much time in court. If your helmet cam recorded the accident, you don't need to spend any time asking witnesses for information or worse, fearing that they side with the other party. 

Filming in public areas is legal, so recording footage with a helmet cam doesn't mean that you're breaking any laws. To use it as evidence, the recording needs to be downloaded and burned to a disc. Then, it will be coupled with a certificate that's countersigned by a solicitor, with a statement verifying that the footage has not been altered in any way. 

Tips for Riders

There are several laws in place especially for cyclists and bikers. On one hand, they're meant to protect you. On the other, they also ensure that you're riding in a responsible manner. 

If you intend on using your footage in a legal case, it's important to ensure that you're on the right side of the law. A reputable legal expert such as Colorado Springs Attorney Andrew Wills II can help you with this matter. Here are some additional tips to consider:

• Your bike needs to be in good condition and sufficiently maintained. 

• If you cycle at night, you should have the appropriate visibility gear to avoid the case being considered as contributory negligence.

• You should also be wearing the legally mandated safety equipment.

Using Footage for Insurance

Finally, can you use helmet cam footage for insurance? The short answer is yes. Just like it can prove your innocence in court, it can also aid in respect to liability to ensure you receive a payout. 

Be sure to keep your helmet cam operational no matter where you ride. It's a valuable tool that can save you from a great deal of financial and legal trouble.

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