Are Dashcams Legal in Arkansas and Can They Help Your Injury Case?

Dashcams are becoming increasingly popular among Arkansas drivers, especially after a serious car accident. Many drivers in Conway, Sherwood, and across the state ask whether using a dash cam is legal—and whether dashcam footage can actually help with Arkansas car accident claims.

The short answer is yes: dashcams are legal in Arkansas, and when used correctly, they can be a powerful tool in a car accident case.

Are Dashcams Legal in Arkansas?

Dashcams are legal in Arkansas, but there are important rules drivers must follow.

Windshield and Placement Rules

Arkansas law allows dash cams as long as they do not obstruct the driver’s view. In general:

• Dash cams should not block the driver’s view of the road
  
• Mounting near the rearview mirror is typically acceptable
  
• Placement on the dashboard or near side or rear windows is usually permitted
  

A dash cam must not interfere with safe vehicle operation.

Arkansas Audio Recording Laws: One-Party Consent

Arkansas is a one-party consent state for audio recordings. This means:

• Only one party involved in a conversation must consent to being recorded
  
• If you are part of the conversation, you may legally record audio
  

However, audio recordings raise more legal concerns than video. While video recording of the road is generally lawful, recording audio inside the vehicle—especially passengers—can create disputes. Many attorneys recommend disabling audio recording unless you clearly understand consent rules.

Can Dashcam Footage Be Used as Evidence?

Yes. Dash cam footage is generally admissible in Arkansas courts if it is relevant, authentic, and unaltered.

Dashcam footage may be used to:

• Show how the accident happened
  
• Capture traffic violations such as running a red light
  
• Record the events leading up to the crash
  
• Document road conditions and visibility
  
• Refute false or exaggerated claims
  

Arkansas courts regularly consider dashcam footage and other video evidence when determining fault.

How Dashcam Footage Helps Car Accident Claims

Dashcams can be a valuable asset in injury cases because they provide objective evidence.

Dashcam footage can help:

• Establish fault
  
• Disprove false statements by other drivers
  
• Support police reports
  
• Clarify conflicting stories
  
• Assist insurance adjusters during claims review
  

When insurance companies see clear video evidence, disputes often resolve faster.

Dashcams vs Traffic Cameras and Security Cameras

Dashcam footage often complements other sources of video evidence, such as:

• Traffic cameras at intersections or major highways
  
• Security cameras from nearby businesses or homes
  

Unlike traffic cameras—which may not capture every angle—dash cams provide the driver’s view and real-time context of the crash.

Protecting Dashcam Evidence After an Accident

After an accident happened, it is critical to preserve footage properly.

Best practices include:

• Save multiple copies of the video
  
• Keep the original file in its original form
  
• Upload footage to a cloud storage service
  
• Store backups on an external hard drive
  

Altering or overwriting footage can reduce its value as evidence.

Common Mistakes That Reduce Dashcam Value

Dashcam evidence can be challenged if:

• The camera was illegally positioned
  
• Audio recording violated consent rules
  
• The footage was edited or clipped
  
• The time or date stamp is missing
  
• Chain of custody is unclear
  

A car accident attorney can help ensure footage is preserved and used correctly.

Dashcams and False Insurance Claims

Dashcam footage is especially useful when dealing with:

• False or exaggerated claims
  
• Other drivers lying about fault
  
• Disputes over traffic violations
  
• Conflicting police or insurance statements
  

Video evidence makes it harder for insurance companies to deny valid injury claims.

Do Dashcams Help With Medical Injury Claims?

Dashcams do not replace medical records, but they strengthen injury claims by:

• Showing the severity of the crash
  
• Supporting causation between the crash and injuries
  
• Reinforcing timelines in medical documentation
  

Clear video often supports claims for medical expenses, pain and suffering, and other damages.

Dashcams in Conway and Sherwood Car Accident Cases

Minton Law Firm routinely handles car accident cases in Conway and Sherwood where dashcam footage, traffic cameras, or security cameras play a key role in establishing liability and countering insurance company defenses.

Local knowledge helps identify additional video sources and preserve evidence quickly.

Are Dashcams Required by Law?

Dashcams are not legally required in Arkansas. However, many drivers choose to use them because they:

• Encourage improved driving habits
  
• Provide peace of mind
  
• Offer critical evidence after a crash
  

While optional, they can make a major difference in accident claims.

Why You Should Speak With a Lawyer Before Sharing Footage

Before providing dashcam footage to an insurance company, it is wise to speak with an attorney. Even helpful footage can be misinterpreted or taken out of context.

A car accident attorney can:

• Review footage
  
• Control how evidence is presented
  
• Prevent misuse by insurance adjusters
  
• Protect your legal rights
  

Speak With Minton Law Firm About Your Arkansas Car Accident Case

If you were injured in a car accident in Arkansas and have dashcam footage—or believe video evidence exists—Minton Law Firm can help you understand how it affects your case.

We offer a free case evaluation and work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless compensation is recovered. Call 501.794.0001 today to speak with a personal injury attorney about your legal options and how dashcam evidence may strengthen your claim.