How To Recover Security Camera Footage for a Personal Injury Claim

In the modern age of technology, security cameras have become invaluable tools in various legal cases, especially personal injury claims. These cameras often capture crucial evidence that can significantly impact the outcome of a lawsuit, and video evidence is often is undeniable in court. If you have been involved in an accident and are pursuing a personal injury claim, obtaining security camera footage can be a game-changer.

Essential Steps to Legally Recover Video Footage

1. Identify Relevant Cameras

First, you need to identify the cameras that might have captured footage of the incident. You or your lawyer will need to locate cameras within the vicinity of the accident site. Some common sources of video evidence include vehicle dashcams, cell phone videos, indoor or outdoor security cameras, and even traffic cameras. Consult an attorney for guidance on identifying potential sources of footage that may be useful to your case.

2. Act Quickly

Time is of the essence when it comes to obtaining security camera footage. Many businesses have retention policies that lead to the automatic deletion of footage after a certain period of time. You need to reach out to the relevant parties as soon as possible to preserve the footage before it is overwritten.

3. Obtain Legal Permission

It is essential to navigate the delicate legal aspects of obtaining security camera footage, like acquiring permission from property owners to access the footage and adhering to privacy laws. If a private party wishes to give someone video footage, they can do so. Thus, there is no harm in asking. Additionally, a business may be more likely to help if you are a customer – either to keep your patronage or because the incident occurred on their grounds and they might hold some level of liability. However, when the owner denies access, an experienced attorney could produce a subpoena to force the owner to release the footage.

4. Preserve the Evidence and Use It Wisely

Upon obtaining the footage, you need to preserve it in its original format. Secure multiple copies and store them safely to prevent loss or tampering. It is crucial to maintain the integrity of the evidence for your personal injury claim.

Once you have the footage, consult your attorney on how to best utilize it in your lawsuit or in settlement negotiations. The footage can serve as compelling evidence to establish liability and support your case’s credibility.

Consult an Attorney on Recovering Camera Footage for Your Injury Claim

Recovering security camera footage for a personal injury claim can significantly strengthen your case and improve your chances of obtaining a favorable outcome. By identifying relevant cameras, acting swiftly, understanding legal permissions, and seeking legal guidance, you can put yourself in a good legal position.

There is more that goes into the preservation and acquisition of video footage than you might think. A qualified personal injury attorney can provide invaluable assistance, ensuring all legal procedures are followed and advising you on the best course of action. Give us a call and learn more about how we could help.