How to Access Traffic Camera Footage in NYS

When you’re involved in a car accident, traffic video recordings can be essential in proving what happened. At The Barnes Firm, we understand how crucial this evidence is for your case, especially in New York State. Knowing how to access traffic camera footage can strengthen your claim and ensure you have all the necessary evidence. This blog will explain how to find, request, and use traffic surveillance footage in New York State.

Understanding Traffic Cameras and Their Purpose

Traffic cameras are strategically placed at high-traffic intersections and along busy roads to monitor traffic flow, detect violations, and help law enforcement. These devices serve multiple purposes, such as regulating traffic and capturing footage that can be used in accident investigations. For those involved in incidents, traffic camera footage can be invaluable in reconstructing the events leading up to the collision.

How traffic cameras work

Traffic cameras are generally automated and capture still images or videos of intersections or roadways. Some devices are triggered by specific events, like speeding or running a red light, while others continuously record traffic. The footage is typically stored by government entities or private contractors responsible for maintaining the camera systems.

Many traffic surveillance equipment are linked to systems that automatically detect violations, such as running red lights or speeding, and may trigger fines. On the other hand, others simply monitor traffic without recording violations, often operated by local government departments, such as the Department of Transportation.

Traffic cameras in New York

New York State uses various traffic cameras to monitor roadways, including speed, red light, and general traffic cameras. These are often positioned at high-risk intersections, along highways, and in school zones to enhance safety and reduce accidents.

New York Traffic Camera Laws and Regulations

In this state, traffic camera use is governed by specific laws. For example, speed cameras are only operational in school zones and are active during school hours. Red light cameras are used at high-risk intersections and can capture vehicles that run red lights.

The New York State Department of Transportation (NYSDOT) and local municipalities maintain and operate these cameras. It’s important to know that camera footage is subject to New York’s Freedom of Information Law (FOIL), which means you can request footage as part of public records if a government entity stores it. However, the availability and storage duration of this footage can vary.

Traffic Cameras and Car Accident Cases

How Traffic Camera Footage Can Help in Accident Investigations

This footage can serve as compelling evidence in car accident cases. The recording can capture relevant details of an incident, such as the timing of traffic signals, the speed of vehicles, and whether anyone violated traffic laws. This evidence often confirms your version of events and helps establish liability in a catastrophe.

For example, if another driver ran a red light and caused your incident, traffic camera footage from that intersection can clearly show the violation, which can be critical in proving fault. This evidence can also demonstrate whether drivers obeyed speed limits or other traffic signals.

Admissibility of Traffic Camera Footage in Court

This type of proof is generally admissible in court if it meets specific criteria. To be used as evidence, the footage must be relevant to the case and must not have been tampered with or altered. The party presenting the video must also be able to verify its authenticity, usually by obtaining it directly from the government agency or private contractor responsible for the cameras.

Courts typically accept traffic camera footage when it is properly obtained and shows fundamental aspects of the incident. Despite this, having an attorney involved early ensures that all evidence is collected and handled correctly.

Limitations of Traffic Camera Footage in Accident Cases

Although traffic camera footage can be helpful, it has some limitations. Not all intersections or roads are covered by traffic devices; even when they are, cameras may not capture the mishap. The material’s angle, quality, and frame rate can also impact its usefulness in a legal case.

Moreover, this evidence is not stored indefinitely. In most cases, traffic camera recordings are only stored for a limited time, typically between 30 and 90 days, after which they may be automatically deleted unless preserved by request.

How to Request Traffic Camera Videos and Accident Reports If You Were Injured in a Crash

To obtain traffic surveillance footage in New York, you must submit a request under the state’s Freedom of Information Law (FOIL). This law allows you to request government agencies’ public records, including traffic monitoring videos. Here’s a general step-by-step process:

1. Identify the correct agency: Determine which entity operates the traffic camera at the location of your accident. This may be the New York State Department of Transportation (NYDOT), the local police department, or a private contractor.
2. Submit a FOIL request: Visit the agency’s website or contact them directly to submit your request. You can find detailed information on how to file a FOIL request through the NYDOT website.
3. Include accident details: In your request, be sure to include the date, time, and location of the occurrence, as well as any other identifying information that can help locate the footage.
4. Request other relevant documents: In addition to the traffic camera footage, you may want to request police reports and any other public records related to your event.

Types of Traffic Camera Footage

Depending on the nature of your incident and the device in the area, you can request several types of traffic camera footage. These include:

• Red light camera footage: Captures images or video of vehicles running red lights.
• Speed camera video: Catch images or videos of speeding vehicles, usually in school zones.
• General traffic camera recording: Continuous recording of traffic flow at intersections and highways, often used for traffic monitoring purposes.

Visit Continental Camera’s guide for a more detailed breakdown of how to view live traffic cameras in your area.

How Can I See Videos or Images From Speed Traffic Cameras in NY?

If you received a speeding ticket from a school zone camera or suspect speed played a role in your tragedy, you can request speed camera footage by contacting the municipality that operates the device. In New York City, for example, speed cameras are managed by the NYC Department of Transportation. You can use the NYC Traffic Camera Map to locate cameras near your accident site.

How Long Do Traffic Cameras Keep Footage?

Road surveillance recordings are typically stored for a limited time—usually between 30 and 90 days—depending on the agency or contractor managing the camera system. Acting quickly is vital to ensure the footage is still available if you’ve been involved in an incident. Once the footage is deleted, it may be impossible to recover, so time is essential.

Contact The Barnes Firm for Traffic Camera Help

At The Barnes Firm, we have years of experience helping clients obtain vital evidence for their car accident claims, including traffic camera footage. If you need assistance with your case, don’t hesitate to contact us. Call us today at (800) 800-0000 for a free consultation.

Richard Barnes – President of The Barnes Firm

Richard Barnes: “As President of The Barnes Firm, I have dedicated my career to achieving justice in hundreds of cases for the victims of injuries caused through the fault of others. Additionally, I have been honored to have been elected Best Lawyer and a Super Lawyer”

Years of Experience: 30+ years
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