Hit-and-Runs vs. Speeding Tickets: Should You Report Incriminating Dash Cam Footage?

Introduction

Recently, a user shared their_dash cam_capture which documented a hit-and-run incident on the interstate, including the license plates of the fleeing driver. Interestingly, the footage also revealed that the user was speeding. The question remains: Would reporting this video to the police result in a citation for speeding? Let's dive into the details and explore what typically happens in such situations.

The Concerns

Your understandable hesitance is valid, but let's address your concerns by drawing upon my experience as a former traffic investigator. Reporting hit-and-run incidents directly impacts public safety and can help apprehend dangerous drivers. However, it's natural to wonder if admitting to speeding could result in consequences.

The Perspective of Law Enforcement

Think about it from the perspective of law enforcement. They are more concerned with catching the fleeing driver who committed the hit-and-run. Speeding, while against the law, is a minor infraction compared to the life-threatening incident of a hit-and-run. It's not in their interest to penalize someone who is willingly providing evidence and helping to catch a dangerous driver.

The Unspoken Rule

From my many years on the job, I never witnessed a single instance where a helpful witness was penalized for minor offenses, such as speeding, when they willingly provided evidence that helped solve a hit-and-run case. It's a common understanding that the public relies on such individuals to come forward, and police are more likely to focus on the primary offender.

Practical Tips for Reporting

Here are some practical tips for reporting hit-and-run incidents and sharing your dash cam footage:

Focus on the Incident: When submitting your video, make sure to emphasize the hit-and-run and the license plates of the fleeing driver. This will help the police prioritize and act quickly. Separate Footage: Modern dashcams typically record in short clips, usually 30 seconds to 2 minutes each. For instance, if you encounter a hit-and-run, you can send just the relevant part containing the crash footage to the police. This way, you avoid having to send your entire recording. Privacy and Convenience: You can save memory by transferring only the necessary segment of the video to a mini SD card or attaching it to an email. This minimizes the burden on you and streamlines the process for law enforcement.

The Bottom Line

The potential consequences of a speeding ticket are negligible compared to the life-changing consequences of a hit-and-run. You are doing the right thing by helping to catch a dangerous driver. Chances are, you will not face any additional penalties for your speeding, and your action could help prevent similar incidents in the future.

If you are still hesitant, consider seeking advice from a local traffic lawyer for peace of mind. However, based on my experience and the vast majority of cases I've handled, you have nothing to worry about. Turning in that footage could make a significant difference in public safety.