Imagine driving along minding your own business when suddenly, you’re pulled over by a police officer. Maybe they say you were speeding, or they accuse you of making an unsafe lane change. It’s your word against theirs—or worse, another driver’s. Now imagine you have the perfect witness: your dashcam. According to attorney Andrew Flusche, that small camera on your dashboard can make all the difference when it comes to proving your case in court.

Protect yourself against false claims

Flusche shared a case in which a driver in Virginia was charged with reckless driving. The officer claimed to have “paced” the driver’s speed by following closely behind and watching their speedometer. But the driver argued that the officer had tailgated him, forcing him to accelerate to create a safe distance.

Without a dashcam, this kind of defense rarely works. “The judge actually believed the citizen in this case,” Flusche said, “but video evidence would have been the nail in the coffin.” Dashcam footage can show exactly how close another vehicle—whether it’s a fellow driver or a police car—was following, leaving little room for doubt.

Stay safe from other motorists

Even outside of court, a dashcam can protect you on the road. Accidents are often “he said, she said” situations, with both parties telling conflicting stories to the police. Flusche recalled a case where a motorcyclist accused a driver of an unsafe lane change, while the driver insisted the motorcyclist had sped past him illegally. With no footage, the judge had to decide based on verbal testimony alone.

“A dashcam removes all that guesswork,” Flusche explained. It provides a clear, unbiased record of what actually happened, whether it’s a fender bender or a major crash.

Shield your car—even when you’re not in it

Dashcams with parking mode can even protect your car when it’s parked. If someone hits your car and drives off or a thief breaks in, parking mode captures everything. Flusche noted that this feature requires hardwiring the dashcam to your car’s electrical system but is a small investment for the peace of mind it brings.

Features to look for

Not all dashcams are created equal. Flusche recommends these key features:

• Dual cameras: Cover both the front and rear of your vehicle. Ride-share drivers might consider a third camera for the interior.

• GPS logging: Records your speed and location, which can serve as critical evidence.

• Parking mode: Monitors your car while it’s unattended, capturing any suspicious activity.

Dashcams are more than just gadgets; they’re tools to protect your rights and your wallet. Whether you’re dealing with an officer’s accusation, a reckless motorist, or a hit-and-run, having clear evidence can save you from costly fines or insurance hikes. As Flusche puts it, “A dashcam is one of the best investments you can make for your car and your peace of mind.”

You can see the rest of Flusche’s advice in the video below: