How to Preserve Dashcam and Phone Evidence
Dashcam footage and phone data can be powerful evidence — but they are easy to lose to overwriting, deletion, or a damaged device. Protect them early.
Save dashcam footage now
Remove the memory card or export the clip so it is not overwritten by newer recording, and back it up in more than one place.
Back up phone photos and video
Copy your crash photos and videos to the cloud or a computer so a lost or damaged phone does not take them with it.
Do not edit the originals
Keep the original files with their date information intact, and work from copies.
Note other footage
Identify nearby cameras and, where relevant, request that footage be preserved before it is overwritten.
Keep your messages
Save texts and emails with the other driver, witnesses, and insurers.
The deadlines and rules depend on your state
The steps above apply wherever you were hurt. Filing deadlines, fault rules, and limits on damages differ by state — pick yours for what applies to car accidents.
Keep going
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This is general information, not legal advice. Every situation is different, and the law differs by state.