Video can serve as objective evidence in support of your claim or lawsuit.
Surveillance videos have become ubiquitous in contemporary society, and in certain situations, they can play a critical role in the resolution of a slip and fall accident claim. Video can provide visual evidence of the hazardous conditions that led to the slip and fall, thereby assisting in the handling of the claim.
In such cases, the footage captured by the cameras can serve to corroborate the victim's account of the incident. Furthermore, the video can also provide insights into the duration of the hazardous condition and events preceding and following the accident. These details can be critical in establishing negligence by the business or property owner.
Slip and fall accidents can be devastating and often occur due to negligence. For those seeking compensation, it is important to take immediate action to protect their legal rights. If you were injured in a New Jersey slip and fall, contact Shebell & Shebell, LLC, to see how an experienced attorney from our law firm can help you build a strong case for the compensation you deserve.
How long is surveillance video saved?
The preservation of surveillance footage is a critical aspect of slip and fall cases. Many businesses, including retail stores, hotels, and banks, use closed-circuit television (CCTV) to monitor patrons, but each has its own set of standards for retaining videos. Information on the length of time businesses hold onto security videos is often anecdotal, and it is not uncommon for companies to selectively retain footage for their own purposes.
It is essential to understand that CCTVs have limited storage and typically overwrite older videos or images unless someone intervenes. This is why it is crucial to consult with an experienced slip and fall attorney before such evidence is lost or destroyed. The events leading up to the accident captured by the surveillance footage may hold the key to establishing liability and securing compensation for your damages.
How can a slip and fall accident lawyer help?
If video evidence of your slip and fall exists, obtaining the footage can be an invaluable asset in your case. However, getting access to such footage can be challenging. An attorney can help you by sending a letter to the party that has the footage (typically the owner of the premises) and requesting the preservation of the video footage. This serves multiple purposes, including informing the party that you have legal representation and ensuring that the footage is preserved.
Likewise, if someone recorded your accident using a cellphone, the video could serve as evidence in your case. Your attorney can track down and interview eyewitnesses and may request a copy of the cellphone video as part of the investigation into your accident.
Contact Shebell & Shebell if you've been injured.
Slip, trip, and fall hazards pose a constant threat in public spaces. These hazards can lurk in unexpected places, from bustling shopping centers to cozy dining spots. Poorly maintained floors, inadequate lighting, and trip hazards are just a few examples of the dangers that can lead to serious accidents. Even residential properties, such as apartment complexes or condominium associations, may not take the necessary precautions to ensure a safe environment, leaving residents and visitors vulnerable to dangerous slips and trips.
In the aftermath of a slip and fall accident, it's essential to take steps to protect your legal rights. A crucial part of this process involves determining whether any surveillance cameras captured the incident. At Shebell & Shebell, LLC, our dedicated legal team has years of experience investigating slip and falls and can help you find the facts that matter to your case. To learn how an experienced New Jersey slip and fall accident lawyer can help with your potential legal case, contact us today for a free consultation.