How Traffic Cameras Aid Hit-and-Run Cases

Traffic cameras can provide critical information about a hit-and-run accident. Footage can be used by the police and your car accident attorney in Phoenix to gain an unbiased account of the before, during, and after a crash, as well as help identify any driver who flees the scene.

Most traffic cameras are owned by state, county, or local authorities. It’s important that you request a copy quickly because footage is often overwritten every few days. However, not all traffic camera footage is easy to get your hands on.

You may need your attorney to file a subpoena to get the recordings you need before the statute of limitations on hit-and-run claims runs out. For most car accidents, a claim needs to be made within two years. However, if you have a claim against a state or local government, you need to send a notice to officials within 180 days of the accident.

Types of Video Evidence in Hit-and-Run Case

Traffic Cameras Explained

Take a look at a busy intersection, and you’re bound to find at least one (if not many) closed-circuit TV (CCTV) cameras. Authorities often use CCTV to monitor traffic conditions and activities at major intersections. The video footage is transmitted to off-site monitoring stations rather than to a public broadcasting site.

Some municipalities install red-light cameras that take photos or videos of vehicles at intersections when the lights are changing. Footage from these cameras may also be helpful in hit-and-run cases, especially if the driver fled after running a red light.

Other Sources of Video Footage

These days, cameras are everywhere. In addition to traffic cameras, your attorney may search for private surveillance cameras from nearby businesses or homes that captured the accident. This footage may be easier to get and of better quality than public traffic camera footage.

Dashcams from cars in or near the accident may have recorded the events leading to the crash. Some newer model cars come with cameras installed on the dashboard, the rearview mirror, or other places on the vehicle.

Motorcycle riders and bicyclists who witnessed the accident may have been wearing miniature cameras attached to their helmets that could be helpful with your case, as well. Even bystanders may have captured the hit-and-run with their cell phones while recording something else. 

Gage Mathers, Your Hit-and-Run Expert

Because hit-and-runs are notoriously difficult to solve, video footage from traffic cameras could play a critical role in getting justice for the victims of these types of accidents. Personal injury attorneys from Gage Mathers are well-versed in the hit-and-run accident settlement process and the strict deadlines for making a claim in Arizona. 

We can file requests for public and private video footage, evaluate the usefulness of these recordings, and work with accident reconstruction experts to build a strong case to prove fault, resolve disputes, and support your claims for compensation. Contact us today for a free consultation!

About the Author

Joseph D'Aguanno

Guided by the belief that being a highly skilled specialist in a narrow field is better than being ordinary in everything, Joseph “JD” D’Aguanno leads Arizona’s best personal injury law firm in Phoenix, AZ. Having extensive cross-training in pre-litigation negotiations and trial lawyer skills, with decades of experience, JD strives to provide clients with the most valuable legal services a personal injury lawyer can provide. Under his direction, Gage Mathers Law Group is an award-winning personal injury law firm providing aggressive representation to victims of a car accident, medical malpractice, dog bite, motorcycle accident, and other injurious events. Gage Mathers is trusted by thousands of lawyers and clients throughout the country because of their reputation for getting clients the maximum compensation they deserve.

Years of experience: Over 24 years
Bar number: 020421
Location: Phoenix, AZ
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