How to Get Car Accident Video Footage from WV DOT Cameras

Getting video camera footage from the West Virginia Department of Transportation (WV DOT) cameras can be critical for your car accident case. Accident footage can make the difference between receiving compensation for your injuries, or failing to get justice following an accident. If you have been injured in an accident, call the West Virginia car accident lawyers at Miley Legal. We can help you gather evidence, build a case, and seek the compensation you deserve. 

How to Request Car Accident Footage from WV DOT

Determine if a Camera was Present at the Accident Location

First, determine if a camera was present at the accident location.You can check the WV DOT traffic camera map or call the DOT. Next, you’ll need the specifics of the accident, including the date, time, and location. Having that information ready will make the process easier. You can then call WV DOT’s Traffic Operations Center and ask for the footage. They’ll tell you if it’s available and how to get it. You can also request the footage formally by submitting a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request.

Why is DOT Video Camera Footage Important for Car Accident Cases?

Provide Objective Evidence of the Accident

DOT camera footage is an unbiased record of what happened before, during, and after the accident. This footage can take most of the guesswork out of proving your claim.

Help Determine Fault

The footage will show precisely how the accident happened, which can help determine who was at fault. That’s important for both insurance claims and lawsuits.

May Capture Details Not Noticed by Witnesses

The footage may capture details that witnesses didn’t see, such as traffic light changes, road conditions, and other drivers involved in the accident.

Where are DOT Cameras in West Virginia?

Major Highways and Interstates

DOT cameras are located along major highways and interstates to monitor traffic and improve road safety.

High-Traffic Intersections

High-traffic intersections are where you’ll find DOT cameras. Those areas are prone to congestion and accidents.

Accident-Prone Areas

The WV DOT also puts cameras in areas with high accident rates to monitor and improve traffic safety. See the WV DOT Traffic Camera Map.

How Long Do I Have to Request Footage?

When asking for DOT video camera footage after a car accident, time is of the essence. 

Timeframe

DOT cameras only store footage for a limited time, so it may be overwritten or deleted within 30 days. Act fast, and the footage will still be there.

Evidence

Timely action helps preserve the evidence that supports your case. Delaying means losing that evidence and potentially hurting your case.

Insurance Claims

Insurance companies need thorough documentation, including video camera footage, to process claims. Act fast, and you’ll have all the evidence to support your claim and avoid delays in getting paid.

Statute of Limitations

In WV, you have only two years from the date of the accident to bring your car accident claims to court. Getting traffic footage promptly will help you meet this stringent deadline. Read our blog regarding the statute of limitations on personal injury in West Virginia for more information.

Accurate Reconstruction

Getting the video camera footage early allows for a more accurate reconstruction of the accident scene. This helps investigators and reconstruction experts working on your case.

Witness Memory

Act fast, and the footage can corroborate witness statements while their memories are still fresh. This aligns the footage with witness accounts.

Preventing Tampering

Requesting immediately reduces the chance of the footage being altered or tampered with, so the evidence is pure.

Case Building

Get the footage early, and your lawyer can build a strong case. The lawyer can then use the footage to prove liability and support your claims.

Bureaucratic Red Tape

Requesting early helps navigate any bureaucratic hurdles in getting the footage so you have it when needed. Act fast and request DOT camera footage.

How Can a Lawyer Help Obtain Video Camera Footage?

Experienced injury attorneys in Charleston, WV are familiar with obtaining accident footage. Using an attorney to help you get car accident footage can take the guesswork out of the equation. An experienced attorney knows precisely what steps to take and won’t waste time taking action. A lawyer handling car accident matters will be able to quickly follow proper procedures, will have experience with FOIA requests, and has the ability to overcome particular obstacles when seeking footage.

Other Sources of Accident Footage to Consider

In addition to DOT camera footage, there are other sources to consider when seeking footage of your accident.

• Businesses and homes near the accident scene may have security cameras that catch the accident.
• Other drivers involved in or who witnessed the accident may have dashcam footage.
• Eyewitnesses may have recorded the accident on their smartphones.

Contact Us for Assistance with Your Car Accident Case

Have you been in a car accident and need help getting DOT footage or other evidence? Contact the experienced West Virginia injury firm at Miley Legal for a free consultation. Our car accident lawyers will help you build your case and seek the compensation you deserve. We have Morgantown, WV injury lawyers on call waiting for you, and we serve clients throughout the state of West Virginia.