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Introduction: Motorcycle Dashcams in France, an Essential Legal Tool
In France, motorcycle accidents are steadily increasing. According to the French Road Safety Authority , more than 600 motorcyclists lose their lives each year on French roads. In this context, a motorcycle dashcam becomes an essential tool, not only for your safety but also for your rights in the event of an accident.
But a crucial question arises: are motorcycle dashcam videos admissible in French courts? What is their legal value with regard to insurance companies and the justice system? This comprehensive guide explains everything you need to know about the evidentiary value of motorcycle dashcam recordings in France .
Legal Framework in France: What the Law Says
Article 427 of the Code of Criminal Procedure
In France, the Code of Criminal Procedure , specifically Article 427, establishes the principle of freedom of proof in criminal matters. This means that:
- ✅ Any form of evidence is admissible , including video recordings
- ✅ The judge freely assesses the value of each piece of evidence
- ✅ Dashcam videos can be presented as evidence
- ⚠️ The evidence must be obtained lawfully
GDPR and Personal Data Protection
Since the GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation) came into effect in 2018, the use of dashcams in France has been regulated:
- Personal use permitted : You may film for your personal safety
- No public broadcast : It is forbidden to publish the videos on social media without blurring faces and license plates.
- Limited retention : Recordings must be deleted after a reasonable period (usually 30 days)
- Third-party information : A "Vehicle under video surveillance" sticker is recommended.
Case law of the Court of Cassation
The French Court of Cassation has repeatedly confirmed the admissibility of dashcam recordings:
- Ruling of March 14, 2018 : Validation of the use of dashcam videos as evidence in accident cases
- Ruling of May 22, 2019 : Confirmation that recordings can establish a driver's liability
- Established principle : Videos are admissible if they comply with the GDPR and are legally obtained
Conditions for the Admissibility of Dashcam Videos in France
1. Lawful Obtaining of Evidence
To be admissible in a French court, your dashcam video must meet these conditions:
- ✅ Legal installation : The dashcam must not obstruct your field of vision
- ✅ Personal use : Recording for your safety, not to monitor others
- ✅ No manipulation : The video must be authentic and unaltered
- ✅ GPS timestamp : Precise date, time and location (as on the C6 Pro)
2. Respect for Privacy
The right to one's image and the protection of privacy are fundamental in France:
- ⚠️ Only film public roads : No private property
- ⚠️ No distribution without authorization : Except as part of a legal proceeding
- ⚠️ Blurring required : If you need to share the video publicly
- ✅ Handover to authorized authorities : Police, gendarmerie, insurance company, court
3. Quality and Authenticity of the Recording
To have maximum probative value in France:
- Minimum resolution 1080P : To identify license plates
- Precise GPS timestamp : Proves the exact location and time
- Continuous recording : No suspicious interruptions
- Metadata intact : Do not modify video files
- Secure storage : High-quality SD card, instant backup
Use with French Insurance Companies
Main Motorcycle Insurance Companies in France
French insurers are increasingly accepting dashcam videos as evidence:
- Mutuelle des Motards : Encourages the use of dashcams, possible discount on premiums
- AMV (Motorcyclists' Mutual Insurance) : Accepts videos to expedite claims
- MAIF : Takes records into account when investigating claims
- Groupama : Use the videos to determine liability
- Allianz : Accepts video evidence in disputes
Claim Reporting Procedure
Here's how to use your dashcam video with your French insurance:
- Secure the video immediately : Remove the SD card or lock the file
- Make a backup copy : On your computer or in a secure cloud storage
- Fill out the accident report : As usual, the video is a supplement
- Contact your insurer within 5 days : Legal deadline in France
- Mention the existence of the video in your written statement.
- Send the video on demand : Via WeTransfer, USB drive, or secure link
- Keep the original : Do not delete the video before closing the case.
Advantages with Insurance
A dashcam can save you money and time:
- ✅ Expedited processing : Case resolved in a few days instead of several months
- ✅ No unfair penalty : Proof of your non-liability
- ✅ Full refund : No deductible if you are not at fault
- ✅ Premium reduction possible : Some insurers offer -5% to -10%
- ✅ Fraud protection : Prevents false declarations
Evidentiary Value Before French Courts
Police Court and Criminal Court
In France, depending on the severity of the accident, your case may be judged by:
- Police court : Fines (minor injuries)
- Criminal court : Offenses (serious injuries, manslaughter)
In both cases, dashcam videos are admissible and have strong probative value , especially if they are HD quality with GPS timestamps.
Civil Court (Damages and Interest)
For actions seeking damages before the French civil court:
- ✅ Videos can prove the harm suffered
- ✅ They establish the responsibility of the other party
- ✅ They can increase the amount of damages and interest
- ✅ They speed up the legal process
Case Studies in France
Case 1: Failure to Yield Priority on the Right (Paris, 2023)
A motorcyclist equipped with a dashcam was hit by a car that failed to yield the right of way. The video footage allowed:
- ✅ Conviction of the offending driver by the police court
- ✅ Full reimbursement by the other party's insurance
- ✅ No penalty for the motorcyclist
- ✅ Case resolved in 3 months instead of 12-18 months
Case 2: Hit and Run (Lyon, 2024)
A dashcam filmed a hit-and-run after an accident. The video allowed:
- ✅ License plate identification
- ✅ Driver arrested by the police
- ✅ Conviction for hit-and-run (2-year suspended sentence)
- ✅ Full compensation for the victim
Practical Advice for French Motorcyclists
Choose a Dashcam that complies with French legislation
To maximize the legal value of your recordings in France:
- Minimum resolution 1080P : To read French license plates
- Integrated GPS : Time stamp and geolocation (like the C6 Pro)
- Night vision : 60% of motorcycle accidents occur at night
- Dual cameras : Front and rear for complete coverage
- G-sensor : Automatic locking of accident videos
- IP67 certification : Resistance to French weather conditions
Best Practices for Use
- Check regularly : Test your dashcam every week
- High-quality SD card : Class 10 minimum, 128GB recommended
- Automatic backup : Enable loop recording
- Visible sticker : "Vehicle under video surveillance" (recommended by the CNIL)
- Time synchronization : Check that the GPS time is correct
- Limited storage : Delete videos after 30 days (GDPR)
In the Event of an Accident on a French Road
- Secure the area : Turn on your hazard lights and warning triangle.
- Call emergency services : 15 (SAMU - Emergency Medical Service), 17 (Police), 18 (Fire Department) or 112
- Do not move the motorcycle : Except in cases of immediate danger
- Lock the video : On your dashcam immediately
- Take photos : Complement to the video
- Fill out the accident report : Even if you have a video
- Note the witnesses : Name, surname, contact information
- Contact your insurance company : Within 5 business days
Limits and Restrictions in France
What You Cannot Do
- ❌ Sharing on social media : Without blurring faces and license plates (fine up to €45,000)
- ❌ Filming private property : Violation of privacy
- ❌ Using to monitor others : Misuse of purpose
- ❌ Store indefinitely : Maximum 30 days unless a procedure is underway
- ❌ Modifying videos : Loss of probative value
- ❌ Filming the interior of other vehicles : Violation of privacy
Possible Sanctions
In the event of non-compliance with the GDPR or image rights in France:
- CNIL fine : Up to 20 million euros or 4% of turnover (for companies)
- Criminal fine : Up to €45,000 and 1 year in prison (invasion of privacy)
- Damages and interest : If a person filmed files a complaint
- Inadmissibility of evidence : If obtained illegally
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do I need to register my dashcam with the CNIL?
No, for personal use (security for your motorcycle), no declaration to the CNIL is required. Declaration is only mandatory for businesses (vehicle fleets).
Can I use my dashcam as my sole evidence?
Yes, but it is recommended to combine it with other elements: accident report, witness statements, photos, police report. The French judge considers all the evidence.
Can my dashcam be used against me?
Yes, if the video proves you are at fault (speeding, failing to stop at a stop sign, etc.). However, you are not obligated to provide it if it incriminates you, unless required by a court order.
Do French insurance companies offer discounts for dashcams?
Some do: Mutuelle des Motards and AMV offer discounts of 5% to 10% on the premium if you install a certified dashcam.
What should you do if the other driver refuses to complete the accident report?
Call the police or gendarmerie immediately. Your dashcam video will then be a crucial element in establishing the facts in the report.
How long should the videos be kept?
According to the GDPR , a maximum of 30 days is allowed for videos without incident. In case of an accident, keep the footage until the case is closed (insurance or legal proceedings).
Can I film continuously even when stationary?
Yes, if your dashcam has a parking mode . But be aware: your motorcycle's battery must be able to handle it, and GDPR regulations still apply (no monitoring of private property).
Can the police confiscate my dashcam?
Yes, as part of a judicial investigation , the police or gendarmerie can seize your dashcam or request the videos. You must cooperate or risk prosecution for obstruction of justice.
Conclusion: The Motorcycle Dashcam, a Legal Ally in France
By 2025, motorcycle dashcams are fully recognized by the French legal system as valid and effective evidence. Whether in court or with insurance companies, video recordings carry significant probative value , provided they comply with French law.
Key Points to Remember
- ✅ Admissibility confirmed : The videos are accepted by French courts
- ✅ GDPR compliance required : Personal use only, no public distribution
- ✅ Essential quality : 1080P minimum with GPS for maximum value
- ✅ Favorable insurance : Expedited processing and possible discounts
- ✅ Legal protection : Proof of your non-liability
- ⚠️ Limitations to be respected : Privacy, limited storage, no distribution
Our Recommendation
For French motorcyclists, investing in a quality dashcam like the C6 Pro (dual 1080P cameras, integrated GPS, IP67 certification) is a wise choice. At €229, it's an investment that can save you thousands of euros in the event of an accident and protect you legally.
Drive safely, drive protected!
