The Crucial Role of Surveillance Footage in Personal Injury Claims

When it comes to personal injury cases, surveillance footage can be a game-changer. Whether you’ve experienced a slip and fall or any other accident, preserving surveillance video is essential. Let’s explore why this seemingly mundane footage holds immense importance:

Powerful Visual Evidence

• A Picture Is Worth a Thousand Words: Surveillance video captures the incident in real time. It provides an unbiased account of what happened, how it happened, and who was involved.
• Witness to the Event: Unlike human witnesses, surveillance cameras don’t forget or alter their testimony. They faithfully record the scene, making them invaluable in court.

Establishing Liability

• Source of the Condition: Surveillance footage reveals the condition of the premises at the time of the fall. Was there a wet floor? A broken step? The video tells the story.
• Duration of Hazard: How long was the hazardous condition present before the accident? Surveillance video can show whether it was a momentary lapse or a persistent danger.

Capturing Actions

• Before, During, and After: The footage captures the victim’s actions leading up to the fall, the fall itself, and their immediate response afterward.
• Objective Documentation: No need to rely on memory or conflicting accounts. The video provides objective documentation.

Timeliness Matters

• Preserve Early: Act swiftly to preserve the footage. Most surveillance systems overwrite old data after a certain period. Request preservation as soon as possible.
• One Hour Rule: Ideally, preserve at least one hour of footage before and after the accident. This ensures context and completeness.

Strengthening Your Case

• Putting It in Context: An experienced attorney can present the video in the right context. Was the victim distracted? Did they take reasonable precautions?
• Jury Impact: Jurors respond to visual evidence. A well-presented surveillance video can sway their opinion.

Requesting Preservation

• Notify the Property Owner: If the incident occurred in an area with surveillance cameras (stores, parking lots, public spaces), notify the property owner immediately.
• Legal Request: Ask the property owner or manager to preserve the relevant footage. They should not delete or overwrite it.

Remember, surveillance footage can make or break your personal injury case. Consult with an attorney who understands its significance and can use it effectively to protect your rights. 📜👨‍⚖️

For personalized legal advice or further information, contact Brubaker Injury Law today and let us help you get the justice you need. Call us at (800) 817-9301 or visit our website at www.brubakerinjurylaw.com to schedule your free consultation. Brubaker Injury Law: We are here for you.