Using Traffic Camera Footage as Evidence in a Car Accident

Car accidents can be traumatic, leaving victims with injuries, financial burdens, and emotional distress. Establishing fault and securing fair compensation can be challenging, especially when conflicting accounts of the accident happen. In such cases, traffic camera footage can be invaluable in providing clear, unbiased evidence. Today, we want to help you understand the importance of traffic camera footage and how it can be used to support your claim. The Boston car accident attorneys at Breakstone, White & Gluck can help.

What is the role of traffic cameras?

Traffic cameras in Boston are strategically placed at intersections, highways, and busy streets to monitor and manage traffic flow. These cameras serve multiple purposes:

• Enhancing traffic safety: By monitoring traffic conditions, cameras help authorities manage congestion and respond to incidents promptly.
• Enforcing traffic laws: Traffic cameras help to enforce red light violations, speeding, and other traffic infractions.
• Providing evidence: In the event of an accident, traffic camera footage can provide critical evidence to determine fault and liability.

What are the benefits of traffic camera footage?

Using traffic camera footage as evidence in a Boston car accident case offers several advantages:

• Unbiased evidence. Traffic camera footage provides an objective account of the events leading up to and during the accident. Unlike witness statements, which can be influenced by personal biases or faulty memories, video footage captures the incident in real time.
• Detailed documentation. Footage from traffic cameras can show important details such as the position and speed of vehicles, traffic signal status, weather conditions, and the actions of drivers and pedestrians. This level of detail can be essential in reconstructing the accident and establishing fault.
• Supporting or contradicting testimonies. Witnesses and involved parties may provide conflicting accounts of the accident. Traffic camera footage can corroborate accurate testimony, helping to clarify the facts of your case.
• Expediting claims. Clear and compelling video evidence can expedite the claims process by providing indisputable proof of fault. This can lead to quicker settlements and reduce the need for prolonged litigation.

How can I obtain traffic camera footage?

Securing traffic camera footage is essential for using it as evidence in your case. Here are the steps to follow:

• Identify the location of the cameras. Determine the location of traffic cameras near the accident scene. Look for cameras at intersections, traffic lights, and along the roads where the accident occurred.
• Act quickly. Traffic camera footage is often overwritten or deleted after a certain period, typically ranging from a few days to a few weeks. Acting promptly to request the footage increases the likelihood of obtaining it before it is erased.
• Contact the appropriate authorities. Request the footage from the agency responsible for the traffic cameras. This may include local law enforcement, the Department of Transportation, or other municipal agencies. Provide specific details about the date, time, and location of the accident to assist in locating the relevant footage.
• Legal assistance. An experienced car accident attorney can help you navigate the process of obtaining traffic camera footage. At Breakstone, White & Gluck, we have the knowledge and resources to obtain footage promptly and handle any legal obstacles that may arise.

How do I use traffic camera footage in my case?

Once we have obtained the traffic camera footage, we can use it to strengthen your case in several ways:

• Analyzing the footage. Your attorney will thoroughly review the footage to identify key details that support your claim. This step includes analyzing the movements of the vehicles, the behavior of the drivers, and any contributing factors such as traffic signal status or road conditions.
• Accident reconstruction. Traffic camera footage can help you create a detailed reconstruction of the accident. Accident reconstruction experts can use the footage to produce simulations and diagrams that illustrate how the accident occurred and who was at fault.
• Demonstrating fault and liability. The footage can clearly show violations of traffic laws, such as running a red light or failing to yield, that contributed to the accident. This evidence is important in proving the other party’s fault and liability.
• Negotiating settlements. Clear and compelling video evidence can be a powerful tool in settlement negotiations. Insurance companies are more likely to offer fair settlements when presented with indisputable evidence of their policyholder’s fault.
• Presenting evidence in court. If your case goes to trial, traffic camera footage can be presented as evidence in court. The footage can support your account of the accident and demonstrate the other party’s negligence.

Possible obstacles to using traffic camera footage

While traffic camera footage can be a powerful tool in car accident cases, there are some challenges and considerations to keep in mind:

• Availability of footage. Not all areas are equipped with traffic cameras, and footage may not always be available for the specific location of your accident. Additionally, some cameras may not capture clear or relevant footage due to their angle or viewing distance.
• Quality of footage. The quality of traffic camera footage can vary. Poor lighting, weather conditions, or technical issues can affect the clarity and usefulness of the footage.
• Legal and privacy issues. Obtaining traffic camera footage may involve navigating legal and privacy issues. Some agencies may require subpoenas or other legal documents to release the footage. Your attorney can help you address these challenges.
• Interpretation of footage. Interpreting traffic camera footage requires special skills. While the footage provides an objective view, understanding and presenting it effectively in a legal context requires the resources of an experienced personal injury attorney and possibly expert witnesses.

Quick steps, practical steps if your accident is caught on a traffic camera

If you are involved in a car accident and believe traffic camera footage may be available, here are some practical tips to follow:

• Act quickly. Acting promptly to request the footage increases the likelihood of obtaining it.
• Gather information. Collect as much information as possible about the accident scene, including the location, date, time, and any visible cameras. This information is crucial when requesting footage.
• Document the scene. In addition to seeking traffic camera footage, document the accident scene yourself by taking photographs, gathering witness statements, and making notes about the conditions and events leading up to the accident.
• Seek legal assistance. Consult with an experienced car accident attorney who can guide you through the process of obtaining and using traffic camera footage. At Breakstone, White & Gluck, we can handle the legal aspects of your case and ensure that all relevant evidence is gathered and presented effectively.

If you’ve been injured in a car accident, obtaining traffic camera footage can be vital to proving your case. Contact the experienced Boston car accident attorneys at Breakstone, White & Gluck today to ensure that this vital evidence is preserved to support your claim. We’re dedicated to fighting for your rights and securing the compensation you deserve. Don’t delay—reach out now for a free consultation and let us help you navigate the path to recovery and justice. Call or contact us today for a free consultation. We serve all of Massachusetts from our Boston offices.