Accessing Surveillance Footage After a Private Property Vehicle Crash [SUFFOLK, VA]

In today’s world, it feels like there are cameras everywhere, capturing our every move. However, after a private property vehicle crash, accessing that footage is not always guaranteed. This is a lesson that Janice Spangenberg is learning the hard way as she tries to navigate the complex insurance process following an accident on private property.

Spangenberg’s experience began when she had just gotten into her truck, intending to leave the parking lot of Sentara Family Medicine in Suffolk, Virginia. As she recalls, “I had just gotten in the truck, and then I, you know, turned to go out of the parking lot, and then it wasn’t two seconds later, I felt like I was knocked forward.” Her vehicle sustained significant damage to the passenger door, nerf bar, and side mirror. The impact shocked her, leaving her to wonder just how serious the collision was. “When I saw the damage, I thought, ‘Wow, that’s pretty bad,’” she said.

Challenges in Accessing Surveillance Footage

Despite the presence of surveillance cameras in many parking lots, gaining access to this video footage is often more challenging than expected. In Spangenberg’s case, the surveillance footage from the private property where the crash occurred is not easily accessible. Many businesses have policies in place that restrict the release of such footage unless requested by law enforcement or subpoenaed as part of a legal process.

This lack of access can be frustrating for victims of private property vehicle crashes who are trying to prove what happened. While it may seem that surveillance footage would provide an indisputable record of the event, private property owners are not always obligated to share the footage. Businesses cannot be held responsible for accidents on their premises unless direct negligence on their part contributed to the incident. This means that, even if cameras captured the accident, getting access to the video may require legal action or a formal request from an attorney.

The Importance of Acting Quickly

Accidents on private property, like in parking lots, happen more often than we realize. Spangenberg’s advice to others is to ensure you have proper insurance coverage and to act quickly after a crash. Timely action can make a significant difference in gathering evidence, including surveillance footage, before it’s potentially erased or overwritten. In many cases, surveillance footage is kept for a limited period, so the sooner a request is made, the better the chances of obtaining it.

Additionally, documenting the scene with photos and gathering witness statements can be critical. Surveillance footage is helpful, but having a well-documented case from the start is equally essential.

Compensation and Legal Support

For victims of private property vehicle crashes, the type of compensation at stake can vary depending on the extent of the injuries and property damage involved. If the accident results in medical bills, lost wages, or long-term pain and suffering, victims may be entitled to compensation from the at-fault party’s insurance company. However, navigating the claims process can be complicated, especially when surveillance footage is difficult to obtain.

At Breit Law Attorneys, we specialize in helping victims of private property vehicle crashes secure the compensation they deserve. Our team understands the legal complexities surrounding these cases, including accessing critical surveillance footage. We work diligently to gather evidence, advocate for your rights, and ensure that you are fairly compensated for your injuries and damages.

When surveillance footage is inaccessible, we explore all available legal avenues to obtain it, ensuring that the full scope of the accident is documented. Our attorneys are skilled in negotiating with insurance companies and pursuing legal action when necessary to hold the responsible parties accountable. At Breit Law Attorneys, we are committed to helping our clients navigate the aftermath of an accident with confidence and peace of mind.

Conclusion

Accessing surveillance footage after a private property vehicle crash is not always straightforward, as Janice Spangenberg discovered. While cameras may be present, gaining access to the footage can require legal intervention. Acting quickly and securing proper insurance coverage are essential steps for victims of private property crashes. At Breit Law Attorneys, we are here to help victims like Spangenberg pursue justice, gather evidence, and secure compensation for their injuries and losses.

It’s important to have experienced wrongful death lawyers on your side when you lose a loved one in a car accident. Call us at 757-330-4108 for a free and confidential case evaluation. You can reach us by phone, text, and online chat 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Note: Our law office relies on external sources for the content of this post. Although we aim for accuracy, we have not independently verified all facts related to this incident. Should you identify any inaccuracies, please notify Breit Law Attorneys for corrections. Posts will be removed upon request.

Disclaimer: The content of this post is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute a solicitation for business. The information contained herein is not intended to offer legal or medical advice. If you or someone you care about has been injured in an accident, it is recommended to seek immediate medical assistance. The photo featured in this post was not taken at the actual scene of the accident

Source: WTKR