Surveillance footage is a strong tool in accident claims. These videos don’t forget or get emotional, and they show what really happened. But many people don’t know how to find or use this proof.
This article will explain how surveillance footage works in accident cases, whether you’re filing a claim now or just want to be ready. Video evidence can be the key to winning or losing your case.
What is Surveillance Footage?
Surveillance footage refers to any video recording that captures events as they happen. In car accident cases, this evidence comes from multiple sources that might have recorded your crash.
Common sources of surveillance footage include:
- Traffic cameras positioned at intersections that monitor vehicle flow and violations
- Dashboard cameras in other vehicles that record continuously while driving
- Business security cameras from gas stations, restaurants, and shopping centers
- Red light and speed cameras that focus on traffic violations
- Residential doorbell cameras and home security systems
The way footage is recorded varies depending on the source. Some cameras record continuously, while others only activate when motion is detected.
Additionally, many systems automatically overwrite older recordings after a certain period. Because of this, preserving footage promptly is critical to ensure important evidence is not lost.
How Surveillance Footage is Used in Car Accident Lawsuits
Video evidence serves as an impartial witness to what actually happened during your accident. Unlike human witnesses who might forget details, cameras capture objective visual records of the incident.
This footage helps establish fault by showing exactly how the accident unfolded. For example, surveillance video might reveal that one driver was texting or that someone ran a stop sign.
The footage can also document weather conditions, visibility, and traffic patterns at the time of the crash.
Advantages of Surveillance Footage in Car Accident Cases
Video evidence is powerful because it shows exactly what happened. Unlike people, it doesn’t take sides or forget details. It captures the facts, which makes it hard for others to argue against what’s clearly seen on camera.
Because of this, disputes often get resolved faster.
If the footage shows who caused the crash, insurance companies and lawyers are more likely to settle quickly. That means less time, less money spent, and less stress for you.
Today’s cameras also catch details most people miss. You can see how fast the cars were moving, who had the green light, and even what the road conditions were like. Instead of relying on conflicting stories, you have solid proof.
Most importantly, cameras capture moments that happen in a blink, especially the seconds right before impact. These quick details are often key to proving fault but are easy to miss in the confusion of an accident.
Limitations and Challenges of Surveillance Footage
While surveillance footage can be valuable evidence, it has several limitations. Cameras may have blind spots or low resolution, making it hard to see important details. Lighting conditions, weather, or camera angles can also affect the quality of the recording.
Another challenge is access. Some footage may be private or controlled by businesses, making it difficult to obtain quickly. Additionally, many systems automatically delete footage after 30, 60, or 90 days. Some systems overwrite footage even sooner, meaning you need to act quickly before evidence disappears forever.
Finally, interpreting surveillance videos can be complex and sometimes requires expert analysis to accurately understand what happened.
Legal Considerations Around Surveillance Footage
Before you can use surveillance footage, you need to know who owns it.
Most of the time, private businesses own security camera videos. Government agencies are in charge of traffic camera footage. Each group has its own rules for sharing videos, which can make things tricky.
Privacy laws can slow things down too. In some places, you’ll need a court order to get certain types of footage, especially if the video shows more than just the accident scene.
Even if you get the footage, the court won’t always accept it. It has to be clear, legal, and unedited. You’ll also need proof that no one changed the video.
This is called the “chain of custody.” It helps show the video is real and reliable.
How to Obtain and Preserve Footage
Acting quickly after an accident gives you the best chance of securing valuable video evidence. While you’re still at the scene, look around for any cameras that might have captured the incident.
Here are the immediate steps to take:
- Document camera locations with photos showing exact positions and angles
- Contact property owners politely to request surveillance footage
- Keep detailed records of all contacts and responses
- Act within days to prevent automatic deletion of evidence
Take photos of all potential camera locations with your phone. This information will be valuable later when your attorney works to obtain the actual footage. Many business owners are willing to help, especially if you approach them respectfully and promptly.
The Role of a Car Accident Lawyer
An experienced car accident attorney brings crucial expertise to surveillance footage cases. Lawyers understand the legal procedures required to obtain video evidence from reluctant property owners or government agencies.
Legal Expertise and Procedure Navigation
Lawyers know how to draft effective subpoenas and navigate privacy laws when property owners refuse to cooperate. They understand which legal channels to use for different types of footage, whether it’s from private businesses or government traffic cameras.
Evidence Location and Identification
Your attorney can identify potential sources of footage that you might not have considered. They often have relationships with local businesses and understand which cameras in specific areas are most likely to capture useful evidence.
Technical Analysis and Presentation
Legal expertise becomes essential when footage quality is poor or when opposing parties challenge the admissibility of video evidence. Lawyers work with technical experts to enhance footage and present it effectively to insurance companies and courts.
If you’re looking for a Boston Car Accident Attorney, DiBella Law Injury and Accident Lawyers is a trusted option. They offer free consultations and only get paid if they win your case, so there’s no cost to you unless you receive compensation.
Final Thoughts
Surveillance footage can be the proof that decides your car accident case. It shows what really happened, but only if you find and save it quickly. Because of legal rules and time limits, getting help from a lawyer is often the best move.
Important video can be lost in just days or weeks. While you’re healing, that footage could be deleted. Acting fast is the only way to protect it.
That’s why it’s important to call a car accident lawyer right after your crash. A good lawyer knows where to look, how to get the footage, and how to use it to support your case. With the right help, this footage can make a big difference in getting the compensation you deserve.
