Do You Need CCTV for Personal Injury Claims?
Closed-circuit television (CCTV) provides an extra layer of security and accountability in almost all environments today. As well as security, CCTV footage can serve as a crucial piece of evidence for personal injury claims, potentially strengthening a case significantly.
As a leading Australian law firm with a wealth of experience in personal injury claims, we understand the value of CCTV footage in substantiating claims. With a track record of success in cases involving slips, trips, falls, and public liability injuries, Carbone Lawyers leverages all available resources, including CCTV footage, to ensure our clients receive the compensation they deserve.
The Role of CCTV in Personal Injury Claims
CCTV footage can be a game-changer in personal injury claims. The ability to visually reconstruct the event can prove pivotal in substantiating the claim, providing clear evidence of the incident and the parties involved. So, the question arises, can you use CCTV footage in a personal injury claim? The simple answer is yes. If available and legally obtained, CCTV footage can be presented as evidence in a court of law, often tipping the scales in favour of the claimant in personal injury cases.
How to Request CCTV Footage in Australia
If you’ve been involved in an incident and believe there’s CCTV footage that could support your personal injury claim, it’s crucial to know how to request CCTV footage for a personal injury claim. In Victoria, you have the right to request CCTV footage under the Privacy and Data Protection Act 2014 (Vic) and the Freedom of Information Act 1982 (Vic).
You will need to contact the CCTV operator, typically the owner of the property where the camera is located, and provide them with specific details of the request, such as the date and approximate time of the incident. Be sure to make your request in writing and keep a copy for your records.
CCTV Retention Periods
How long CCTV footage is kept can vary significantly depending on the operator’s policies and the type of system used. In Australia, CCTV footage is often stored for a duration of 30 days, but it can be stored for longer. Consequently, it’s essential to act quickly when seeking to request CCTV footage for a personal injury claim. The sooner you request the footage following the incident, the higher the chances of it still being available.
Dealing with Uncooperative Property Owners
A common concern arises when the property owner refuses to provide the requested CCTV footage. In such a situation, it’s important not to panic. You can seek assistance from the Office of the Victorian Information Commissioner (OVIC) or engage legal professionals, such as Carbone Lawyers, to help you navigate this challenge.
The Power of Legal Support
Navigating the landscape of personal injury claims can be daunting, particularly when it involves procuring evidence like CCTV footage. We’re committed to providing you with comprehensive legal support, contact us to have a trained legal professional guide you through every step of your personal injury claim, including how to request CCTV footage for a personal injury claim.