Following advancements in technology, you can now get camera footage of your car accident and use the recording to prove negligence when filing for compensation. Smartphones, security cameras, and home surveillance systems have made it possible to capture everything on tape.
If you happen to be a victim of a car accident and you are wondering whether your lawyer can get camera footage of the crash, then the simple answer is yes. An experienced personal injury attorney can help you obtain video footage of your crash as this might make the difference in your lawsuit. Here are a few points that you need to know about getting video footage for your car accident.
Types of Cameras That Might Have Captured the Accident
Recordings by witnesses or bystanders at the scene of the accident can be helpful, but you need to explore other options as well. Finding and convincing witnesses to submit their video recordings to you can sometimes be a challenge. Fortunately, you have so many options as far as obtaining video evidence. These include:
Traffic cameras
The local authorities may set up traffic cameras along busy roads to help monitor traffic flow and identity high accident areas. These cameras also come in handy in reporting about weather conditions and providing vital information related to urban development.
Red light cameras
Red light cameras are very common along busy intersections and they are often used to monitor traffic offenders who fail to stop at red lights. If you are hit by such a driver, footage from the camera can be used to prove negligence.
Dash cameras
Dashboard cameras automatically record all happenings as you drive and Florida is among one of the several states that allow these cameras in personal cars. You can use footage from your dash camera to prove negligence on the part of the at-fault driver or argue your innocence. The best part is that dash cams capture both interior and exterior sounds as well as video, thus giving a thorough breakdown of events.
Surveillance cameras
Nearby businesses and establishments usually install surveillance cameras as part of their security measures. Footage from these cameras can come in handy, relaying areas the at-fault driver visited before the accident. For instance, if the driver visited a liquor store prior to the accident, footage can be used to prove impairment.
Doorbell security cameras
Homeowners are increasingly installing doorbell cameras to improve the security of their homes. These cameras are designed to record all activities within a given range, from the road to the doorway.
Beware of Your Conduct
While video recordings can help prove your case in court, they might also work against you. Remember, the cameras capture all events in real-time, meaning anything you do or say could be used against you.
Your conduct is of great importance as it might be construed as accepting responsibility. With this in mind, you should try to maintain your composure at all times. Moreover, seek medical help and call emergency services if required.
Is Video Evidence Admissible in Florida Courts?
Video evidence may possibly be used in Florida courts if they are authentic, relevant, and available in an unedited format. When the video recordings are gathered lawfully and in accordance with the legal provisions, there are no issues.
Recordings provide valuable evidence for personal injury lawsuits and insurance settlement negotiations. The video can help dispel any myths, untruths, and misconceptions about the opposing party.
Videos that are useful in helping your compensation lawsuit may cover the following:
- Behaviors of motorists and road users
- Causes of the crash like distractions and drug use
- Road conditions prior to the crash
- Obstructions
- Weather conditions
- Level of visibility
- Injuries sustained from the crash
- Point of impact
Contact a Personal Injury Attorney for Help
Talking to an experienced personal injury lawyer can help you get camera footage of your crash promptly. Most establishments usually erase previously recorded footage to create space for other videos. A lawyer can write an immediate request letter to the establishment or authorities for the video to be preserved. This will ensure that you have adequate evidence for a successful compensation lawsuit.
