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(281) 587-1111
(281) 587-1111
(281) 587-1111
June 7, 2025 by Greg Baumgartner
Knowing how to get surveillance camera footage after a car accident in Houston can be critical for proving fault and securing fair compensation. Video evidence from traffic cameras, business security systems, and residential doorbell cameras can provide clear visual proof that supports your injury claim. We outline the most effective methods for locating and requesting this footage before it is lost or deleted.
Surveillance footage provides objective, time-stamped evidence that insurance companies and courts recognize as credible and reliable. Unlike witness testimony or police reports, video captures the crash as it happened. It can reveal:
This footage can support your account of the accident, refute false claims, and increase the value of your settlement.
Surveillance footage can originate from various sources, depending on the location and nature of the crash. These include:
Houston has red-light and traffic-monitoring cameras at key intersections. These are often operated by the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT), the City of Houston, or private vendors under contract with the city. However, most are used for traffic management and may not record or retain footage.
Gas stations, retail stores, banks, and office buildings often have exterior cameras that may capture footage of a nearby crash. These systems typically store footage for only a few days unless it is saved.
Homeowners in residential neighborhoods often use Ring, Nest, or similar systems. These may record footage of neighborhood streets, especially if the crash occurred in a subdivision or near a driveway.
Drivers, rideshare vehicles, delivery trucks, and commercial vehicles may have dash cams that captured the incident. This footage is harder to obtain without cooperation, but it’s highly valuable if available.
Time is critical. Most surveillance systems automatically delete video after 24 to 72 hours. Immediate action increases the chance of recovery.
Visit the crash scene as soon as possible. Look for:
Take photos and document addresses and business names for follow-up.
If the camera is on private property, request the footage directly from the owner or manager. Be polite but urgent. Provide:
If they agree to release the footage, get a copy immediately. If they hesitate, have your attorney make a formal request.
Have your attorney send a spoliation letter or preservation request to the party at fault. This letter notifies the recipient and their insurance company that they must preserve any potentially relevant footage for litigation. It should include:
Failing to preserve video after receiving such a letter can lead to legal consequences for the party who destroys it.
If the party refuses to release the video voluntarily, your attorney can issue a subpoena during the discovery phase of your injury claim. This legal document compels them to produce the footage.
To obtain traffic camera or intersection video from public entities, file an Open Records Request under the Texas Public Information Act. Requests should be sent to:
Include precise dates, times, and intersections. Government footage may be limited, so a quick request is essential.
Not all crashes are captured on camera. If no video is available, your attorney can build your case using:
While video is powerful, it is not the only way to prove fault in a car accident. However, acting quickly gives you the best chance to secure critical footage.
An experienced Houston car accident attorney has the tools to obtain surveillance footage before it’s lost. We act fast to:
If you delay, the evidence may be gone forever. Surveillance video can mean the difference between a denied claim and full compensation.
We help crash victims throughout Houston obtain critical surveillance footage to support their claims. If you were hurt in a crash and believe a camera may have captured the incident, contact our office immediately. We will move quickly to preserve and secure all available evidence while protecting your legal rights.
Let our team fight to recover the compensation you deserve.
Contact the Houston personal injury law firm of Baumgartner Law Firm at (281) 587-1111.
Baumgartner Law Firm
Since establishing Baumgartner Law Firm in 1985, Greg Baumgartner has built a reputation as one of Houston’s leading personal injury attorneys, dedicated to representing severely injured victims and families who have lost loved ones due to negligence.
Greg holds two law degrees, a distinction earned by less than 1% of all attorneys, demonstrating his exceptional legal expertise. He is also a prestigious Trial Lawyers College graduate, further enhancing his skills in trial advocacy and litigation.
His relentless commitment to legal excellence and client advocacy has earned him recognition from prestigious organizations, including Super Lawyers, the Top 100 Trial Lawyers, and many others.
With decades of experience, Greg has consistently received top peer reviews. He holds a preeminent rating, a testament to his unwavering dedication to securing justice and maximum compensation for his clients.
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