Securing Video Footage Before It’s Erased
Securing evidence is crucial for supporting an injury claim following a car accident. While there are a range of documentation types that could prove your right to monetary funds, one of the most valuable pieces of evidence could be video footage collected by nearby businesses. This is because footage provides an unbiased account.
If camera footage would fortify your claim, timely acquisition of this footage is essential. It is common for businesses, in Florida and around the country, to have policies for erasing or overwriting video footage after a certain period of time has lapsed. The sooner you speak to an Orlando personal injury attorney about the possibility of securing video evidence the better. It could make a significant difference in the outcome of your claim. Evidence can disappear and have an impact on your possible monetary recovery.
Business Do Not Retain Footage Indefinitely
Video footage from security cameras, dash cams, or traffic cameras can be pivotal in proving liability after a car accident. This footage could underscore your version of a vehicular collision in the following ways.
- What happened at the moment of the collision. Capturing details such as the speed of vehicles, traffic signal status, and the actions of drivers leading up to the accident.
- Witness behavior and bystander accounts. Providing additional context, as well as identifying possible witnesses and corroborating witness statements.
- Environmental conditions. Recording weather conditions, lighting, and other factors that may have contributed to the accident.
The retention period for surveillance video can vary widely depending on the business’s policies and storage capacity. In many cases, footage is automatically erased or overwritten within days or weeks. Acting quickly to secure this footage is vital.
For example, retail businesses often retain footage for a short period, typically between 7 to 30 days. This is due to limited storage capacity and the high volume of daily recordings. Financial organizations, such as banks, may retain footage for several months, as they are often subject to stricter security regulations and need to keep detailed records. Hotels often have longer retention rates as well because they adhere to the high security and regulatory requirements of the hospitality industry.
An Orlando Injury Lawyer Can Submit Formal Requests
As soon as you share the details of your Florida car, truck, or motorcycle accident with an attorney, they can begin the process of investigating the accident, potentially identifying sources of video footage. Should captured imagery support your case, your lawyers will then draft and submit formal requests to obtain and preserve video footage as evidence in your case. They can use legal channels, such as subpoenas, to ensure businesses comply with evidence preservation requests.
Once obtained, your Orlando personal injury attorney will ensure the video footage is properly documented and handled as evidence. This includes securing copies, maintaining the chain of custody, and presenting the footage effectively in negotiations.
Are you considering talking to a lawyer because you believe an area business or traffic light camera recorded an accident you were involved in? Video footage can be a powerful tool. Many businesses have short retention periods for their surveillance videos. so connect with the attorneys at Israoui Law without delay. To access the personal attention you deserve, call 407-381-4529. Always speak to an experienced accident injury attorney before speaking to any insurance company.
