How Long Is Car Crash Video Footage Usually Kept?
When you're involved in a car accident, video footage can be a crucial piece of evidence. But how long is this footage kept? The answer varies depending on the source of the footage and local regulations. This detailed article will explore the different types of video footage that might be available after a car crash and how long each is typically stored, complete with illustrative examples.
1. Traffic Camera Footage
Traffic cameras, often installed at intersections and highways, capture footage of accidents as they happen. The duration for which this footage is stored can vary widely:
Example: In City A, traffic camera footage is stored for 30 days. If you were involved in an accident on January 1st, the footage would be kept until January 31st. After this period, the footage is typically overwritten to make room for new recordings.
Example: In contrast, City B stores traffic camera footage for up to 90 days. This longer retention period provides more time for accident investigations and legal proceedings.
2. Dashcam Footage
Many drivers use dashcams to record their journeys. The footage from these cameras can be invaluable in determining fault and providing evidence in insurance claims and legal cases. Dashcam footage is usually stored indefinitely, as long as the camera's memory card has space.
Example: Jane was rear-ended at a stoplight, and her dashcam recorded the entire incident. She reviewed the footage and provided it to her insurance company, which used it to settle her claim quickly and fairly.
3. Surveillance Cameras
Surveillance cameras installed on private properties, such as businesses or residential buildings, can also capture car accidents. The retention period for this footage depends on the property owner's policies and the camera's storage capacity.
Example: A car crash occurred outside a convenience store, and the store's surveillance camera recorded the incident. The store owner keeps surveillance footage for 60 days before overwriting it with new recordings.
4. Police Body Camera Footage
Police officers often wear body cameras that record interactions and incidents, including car accidents. The retention period for this footage is typically determined by department policies and local laws.
Example: Officer Smith responded to a car accident and recorded the scene with his body camera. The police department in his jurisdiction keeps body camera footage for 90 days, after which it is reviewed and archived if necessary.
5. Mobile Phone Videos
Witnesses or involved parties may capture video footage of a car accident using their mobile phones. This footage can be shared with insurance companies, law enforcement, and legal representatives.
Example: Tom witnessed a car crash and recorded the aftermath on his phone. He provided the video to the police, who used it to determine fault and issue citations.
6. Insurance Company Footage
Some insurance companies use video footage from various sources to assess claims and investigate accidents. The retention period for this footage depends on the company's policies and the specific case.
Example: Sarah's insurance company requested traffic camera footage and dashcam recordings to evaluate her claim. The company keeps such footage for up to 180 days to ensure all necessary evidence is reviewed.
7. Legal and Investigative Footage
In some cases, legal teams and private investigators may obtain video footage from multiple sources to build a comprehensive case. The retention period for this footage is determined by the ongoing legal proceedings and the need for evidence.
Example: John's attorney requested surveillance footage from nearby businesses and traffic cameras to support his case. The attorney kept the footage for the duration of the legal process, which took six months.
Conclusion
The length of time video footage is kept after a car crash varies depending on the source and local regulations. Traffic cameras, dashcams, surveillance cameras, police body cameras, mobile phone videos, insurance company footage, and legal investigative footage all have different retention periods. Understanding these timelines can help you gather the necessary evidence to support your claim and ensure a fair resolution.