Motorcycle accidents in New York can result in significant injuries and long-lasting consequences for the victims involved. Given the city’s crowded streets, accidents often happen in high-traffic areas, making it difficult to determine what happened during the incident. In such cases, traffic camera footage can be an invaluable resource in motorcycle accident litigation, offering clear, objective evidence that can help clarify the sequence of events and determine fault.
In any motorcycle accident, the first step is determining liability—the person or party responsible for the crash. Traffic camera footage provides crucial evidence to help establish the facts of the incident. Unlike eyewitness testimonies, which can sometimes be unreliable, traffic cameras offer an unbiased, visual account of what transpired before, during, and after the crash.
In New York, traffic cameras are strategically placed at intersections, highways, and accident-prone areas. These cameras capture images of vehicles and traffic conditions in real-time, providing a clear record of the crash. This is particularly important in motorcycle accidents because motorcycles are often smaller and harder to spot in dense traffic, making them vulnerable to collisions.
Once traffic camera footage is secured, it can be used in several ways throughout the litigation process. Below are some of the key ways this footage can impact a motorcycle accident case:
The primary role of traffic camera footage in a motorcycle accident case is to establish liability. If another driver is at fault, the footage can show their actions, such as running a red light, failing to yield, or driving aggressively. Conversely, if the motorcyclist was at fault, the footage can show whether they were following the rules of the road, such as obeying speed limits and traffic signals.
Hit-and-run accidents are unfortunately common in motorcycle accidents. If the responsible driver flees the scene, it can be difficult for the victim to identify them and pursue legal action. Traffic camera footage can play a crucial role in these cases by capturing the vehicle’s license plate, make, and model. In some cases, it may even capture the driver’s appearance.
Motorcycle accidents often result in serious injuries, such as broken bones, head trauma, and spinal injuries. To seek compensation for these injuries, the victim must prove that the accident was caused by another party’s negligence. Traffic camera footage can help demonstrate the severity of the crash by showing the speed of the vehicles involved and the impact of the collision.
In some cases, the other party involved in the accident may deny responsibility or attempt to shift blame onto the motorcyclist. Traffic camera footage can be a powerful tool in refuting these false claims. For instance, if a car driver claims that the motorcyclist caused the accident by speeding, but the footage shows that the car driver failed to yield, the footage provides objective evidence that supports the motorcyclist’s version of events.
Obtaining traffic camera footage in New York is time-sensitive, as these recordings are often only stored for 30 to 90 days before they are overwritten or deleted. If you’re involved in a motorcycle accident and believe that traffic camera footage could help your case, it’s important to request the footage before it’s gone.
In many cases, a motorbike accident lawyer can assist in obtaining this footage by submitting a formal request to the New York Police Department or the Department of Transportation. If the accident happened near private property, such as a business or residential building, private surveillance footage from security cameras may also be helpful.
An experienced attorney will know how to request this footage and ensure that it is preserved for use in the case. They will also be familiar with the legal processes involved in obtaining this evidence.
Traffic camera footage can significantly affect the outcome of a motorcycle accident case. Having clear, objective evidence showing the events leading to the crash can strengthen the victim’s case and increase the likelihood of a successful outcome. Insurance companies and opposing parties may be more likely to settle if they know that the footage is in the victim’s favor.
In court, judges and juries are often more inclined to trust video evidence over witness testimony, which can be unreliable or inconsistent. The footage can also expedite the case, leading to a faster settlement or trial verdict.
Traffic camera footage is a valuable tool in motorcycle accident litigation in New York. It provides an objective, unbiased record of the events leading up to the crash, helping to establish liability and support injury claims. Whether you’re dealing with a hit-and-run accident or disputing false claims, traffic camera footage can make all the difference in securing a favorable outcome.
If you’ve been involved in a motorcycle accident, consulting with an experienced motorbike accident lawyer can help you obtain the necessary footage and ensure your rights are protected throughout the legal process. Don't hesitate to seek legal help to ensure you get the compensation you deserve.
