How to Obtain Video Evidence After a Crash

When you’re involved in a car crash in Syracuse, one of the most powerful tools for proving your claim isn’t your memory; it’s video footage. Dashcam footage, surveillance video, or even a bystander’s smartphone can provide an unbiased account of what happened, but only if you act fast.

If you were hurt in a car accident, here’s what you need to know about locating, securing, and using video evidence to support your claim, and how Syracuse car accident lawyers can help.

Sources of Video Evidence After Your Crash

Cameras are everywhere, and there’s a good chance your accident was recorded, but knowing where to look is important. Here are the most common sources of video evidence, from easiest to access to trickier leads:

• Dashcams: Start with your own vehicle and any cars nearby. Dashcams often capture the critical moments before, during, and after a crash. If another driver stopped to help, ask if their camera was recording.
• Surveillance Cameras: Businesses near high-traffic areas like Erie Boulevard, Destiny USA, or East Genesee Street often have cameras facing parking lots or intersections. These locations are prime spots where accidents are frequently recorded.
• Residential Doorbell Cameras: In areas like Eastwood, Westcott, or the Northside, it’s not uncommon for homes to have doorbell or security cameras that may capture footage near stop signs or intersections.
• Traffic Cameras: The City of Syracuse and New York State Thruway Authority operate traffic cams at major intersections and highways, such as I-690 or Hiawatha Boulevard. While not all footage is archived, some may be retrievable with legal assistance.
• Smartphones and Bystanders: If your crash caused a major backup or commotion, someone nearby may have pulled out their phone to record it. Tracking down witnesses quickly is crucial, especially before they leave the scene.

Also, a quick video of the accident scene, vehicle positions, road conditions, and any visible damage can be valuable if it’s safe to do so.

Time-Sensitive Steps to Preserve Video Footage

Many cameras automatically delete or overwrite footage after just 24 hours. Some systems only save footage when motion is detected, which may or may not include the full accident sequence.

To preserve footage:

• Act Immediately: Contact nearby businesses or homeowners and politely ask if their system may have captured the crash.
• Document Locations: Write down the addresses of any buildings with visible cameras.
• Submit a Preservation Letter: An attorney can formally request that property owners or businesses retain relevant footage before it’s deleted.
• Check for Nearby Vehicles With Dashcams: If other drivers stopped to help, ask if their camera may have captured the event.

Challenges in Securing Video Evidence

Obtaining footage isn’t always simple. Some common hurdles include:

• Uncooperative Business Owners: Without legal pressure, a business may refuse to hand over footage, especially if they think it could involve them in a legal issue.
• Poor Image Quality or Obstructions: Low-resolution cameras or poorly angled lenses may not offer useful footage.
• Camera Retention Limits: Many cameras delete footage in a few days unless it is manually saved.
• Identifying Witnesses: If bystanders filmed the crash but left the scene, it can be difficult to track them down later.

Working with an attorney can streamline this process. Syracuse car accident lawyers often have access to investigators or legal channels that can secure footage before it disappears.

How Video Evidence Can Strengthen Your Claim

Video doesn’t lie. It’s one of the most compelling pieces of evidence in a car accident case. Here’s how it can help:

• Prove Fault: Footage can show who ran a red light, failed to yield, or was speeding.
• Clarify Confusing Situations: In multi-car pileups or chain reaction crashes, video helps identify who hit whom first.
• Disprove False Claims: A video can set the record straight if the other party blames you.
• Support Injury Severity: Footage of how your car was hit, particularly at high speed or from the side, can back up your medical claims.

Insurers are more likely to negotiate fairly when faced with clear, objective evidence like a video.

Don’t Go It Alone—Get Legal Help Securing Footage

The process of identifying, requesting, and preserving video footage can be overwhelming, especially when you’re also dealing with injuries and insurance companies.

Experienced Syracuse car accident lawyers know:

• Where to look for potential footage sources
• How to legally compel businesses or agencies to release footage
• When to use accident reconstruction experts to interpret unclear footage
• How to use video in settlement negotiations or trial

Let Us Help Secure the Evidence You Need

If you’ve been in a crash, video evidence could be the deciding factor in your case, but it won’t last forever. Quick action and legal support are essential to preserving this valuable resource.

At Catalano Law, our Syracuse car accident lawyers are ready to help you track down and secure video evidence, build a strong claim, and fight for the compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation and let us start working for you before the footage is gone.