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After a motorcycle crash, proving what really happened can be one of the hardest parts of a personal injury claim. A lawyer, like a motorcycle accident lawyer, knows that video evidence can play a major role in supporting your side of the story, but tracking it down is not always easy. A lawyer can take the lead in locating, preserving, and using video footage that helps strengthen your claim.
Identifying Where To Look For Footage
One of the first steps an attorney may take is figuring out where cameras might have recorded the accident. This often includes nearby traffic cameras, security cameras at local businesses, and even private doorbell or home security systems. Some intersections have city-operated traffic cameras, while certain stretches of highway are monitored by transportation departments. Businesses such as gas stations, restaurants, or stores often have cameras facing parking lots or streets.
A person without legal experience might not know which places to check or how to request access. Attorneys can quickly identify possible sources and know how to contact the right people to make a formal request.
Making Timely Requests For Video Files
Most video systems donât keep recordings for long. Some delete files after just a few days. Because of this, acting fast is key. A lawyer will usually send a written requestâsometimes called a preservation letterâto ask that the footage be saved and not erased. This letter is often sent to a business, city department, or property owner who may have relevant footage.
Without this step, potentially useful video could be lost forever. Acting quickly and knowing where to send these requests can make a big difference in the outcome of a motorcycle accident case.
Contacting Witnesses Who May Have Footage
These days, many people have dash cams in their vehicles. If the crash happened on a busy street, itâs possible another driver recorded the collision without realizing it. A lawyer may contact witnesses listed in the police report or posted online and ask if any of them have video from the time and location of the crash.
In some cases, nearby residents may have doorbell camera footage that caught the crash or events leading up to it. A lawyer can reach out to these individuals in a professional manner to request a copy.
Reviewing And Preserving The Footage
Once video footage is gathered, it must be handled properly. That includes making secure copies and preserving the original file for use in negotiations or trial. A lawyer can also review the footage alongside other evidenceâsuch as police reports, photographs, and witness statementsâto build a strong, consistent case. Clear footage can show fault, disprove false statements, and confirm details such as road conditions, traffic signals, or vehicle speed.
Helping Present The Footage Clearly
Video on its own isnât always enoughâit needs to be presented clearly. Lawyers may work with professionals to slow the footage down, highlight key moments, or freeze frames that show what happened. This makes it easier to explain the evidence during settlement talks or in court. Even strong video can be overlooked or misinterpreted if not used the right way. A lawyerâs help can give you the best chance of making that footage work for your case.
Reach Out For Help Early
The sooner a lawyer gets involved after a motorcycle crash, the better the chances are of preserving important video evidence. Our friends at Mitchell & Danoff Law Firm, Inc discuss how helpful early action can be in building a strong claim. If youâve been injured in a motorcycle accident, donât wait. Talk to a personal injury attorney who can help gather and use the evidence needed to support your case.
