When You’re Caught On Camera
It’s nearly impossible to drive anywhere without being caught on camera in today’s world. Whether it’s traffic cameras, business security systems, or personal dashcams, video footage is now a key piece of evidence in many Florida car accident cases. In fact, video can often make or break a personal injury claim.
When you’re involved in a collision, especially in a bustling city like Miami, what the camera captures can quickly tip the scales. Footage can either strengthen your case or challenge your version of events. Contact a Miami personal injury lawyer to protect your rights and explore how video evidence can support your injury claim.
How Footage Helps Car Accident Claims
Surveillance and dashcam footage can provide clear, unbiased evidence about how a collision occurred. Unlike witness statements, which can be inconsistent or influenced by emotions, video tells the story in real time.
There have been several Florida cases where footage played a decisive role.
- Intersection collision captured on a traffic camera. One instance of camera footage impacting a case was when a driver claimed they had the green light when passing through a busy intersection. The other driver disputed this, insisting they had the right of way. Thankfully, a city traffic camera recorded the crash. The footage clearly showed the claimant running a red light. As a result, the claim was dismissed, saving the other driver from paying damages they didn’t cause.
- Dashcam footage and a rideshare driver. In another case, a rideshare driver was accused of sideswiping another vehicle. The other driver claimed the rideshare vehicle drifted into their lane. Through an investigation it came to light that the rideshare driver’s dash cam captured the entire incident, showing the other vehicle merging unsafely without signaling. The dashcam evidence exonerated the rideshare driver and led to a quick resolution in their favor.
- Parking lot crash. There was also a case involving a parking lot collision where both drivers blamed each other. There were no direct witnesses, but security footage from a nearby store showed one driver reversing without looking and striking the other vehicle. This evidence helped the injured driver recover damages for medical expenses and vehicle repairs.
Cameras Can Work Against You, Too
While footage can be your best ally, it can also work against you if it contradicts your statement or shows reckless behavior. For example, if you try to file a claim and there is evidence you were speeding, using your phone, or breaking traffic laws, that footage can be used by insurance companies or opposing attorneys to deny your request for compensation.
When an accident happens, securing video evidence quickly can be crucial. Cameras often record over older footage within days or weeks, so acting fast is necessary. An experienced Miami personal injury lawyer can help obtain footage, preserve it, and present it in a way that strengthens your case.
How does a person involved in a car wreck access camera footage? The lawyers at Spencer Morgan Law can guide you through the evidence recovery process. Call 305-423-3800 to book a confidential consultation.