With practically every facet of our lives being digitized and recorded nowadays, it’s not surprising that many people want to know, “How to get camera footage of a car accident in Maricopa County, AZ?” In some cases, it’s possible, but in others, it’s not so easy.

How Video Footage Can Impact a Car Accident Claim

While high-quality video footage is preferred, even a grainy video, still images, or a video recorded from a distant viewpoint can influence a case when there is a discrepancy about what happened. Video can also reveal investigative information for criminal cases, for instance, when drivers leave the scene of an accident. When drivers who weren’t directly involved in a collision do not stop, it can also reveal potential witnesses or other intel that would otherwise go unknown.

In 2024, there were 88,094 car accidents in Maricopa County alone. Having each of these accidents on video would likely be useful in many cases in which liability was questioned or in the case of hit-and-run drivers, as mentioned. However, it’s just not feasible for traffic cams to record and store that much footage. Therefore, we must rely on other forms of video footage in addition to the limited availability of traffic cam footage in Arizona.

Types of Car Accident Footage

Advancements in technology and the ability of anyone with a cell phone to record an event in a matter of seconds give multiple opportunities to get potential video footage of a car accident. Below are some of the most common sources of footage that result in useful evidence:

  • Street cams. Arizona, and Maricopa County, specifically, have installed street cams throughout the major thoroughfares, most of which can be viewed online at any time. However, the AZ DOT does not save recorded footage of their traffic cams. These live cams are mostly only accessible in real time. Some jurisdictions have their own cameras installed and may have recorded images or footage from their cameras. To get footage from a camera mounted at an intersection or over a highway, you have to contact the local agency responsible for the camera. This is not always easy. Once you determine the agency, you’ll have to follow their unique procedure for requesting footage. It’s important to act fast, as digital files are periodically overwritten.
  • Law enforcement body cam footage. This type of video footage may be useful for collecting evidence of the events that followed an accident after police arrived on the scene. Requests for officer body cam footage can be made to the Arizona Department of Safety, Field Video and Records division, or through your local law enforcement agency.

Keep in mind that the release of video records is subject to strict guidelines established in Arizona Revised Statutes § 41-1734.

Other sources for video footage include bystanders’ cell phone footage, a nearby business’s security camera, a local neighbor’s Ring cam, or another vehicle’s dash cam. These options are easier to get, but they may not provide as much value as those mentioned above.

When to Hire a Car Accident Lawyer

If you need video footage of any kind for any reason, it is recommended that you hire a car accident lawyer to assist you. Not only can an attorney potentially help you obtain that footage, but they can also provide the following legal services:

  • Collect evidence
  • Investigate the collision
  • Determine liability
  • Assess damages
  • Estimate compensatory damages
  • File a claim on your behalf
  • Negotiate with insurance providers
  • Litigate, if necessary
  • Advocate for your rights
  • Pursue a better settlement

In some jurisdictions, a car accident attorney can request video footage if it is available. They may have means of collecting video records that the general public does not. For instance, they may be able to subpoena footage in accordance with Maricopa County car accident laws.

Why Choose Us?

For over 30 years, the law firm of Luis P. Guerra, L.L.C., has been assisting clients in getting the most out of their car accident claim settlements. We are familiar with the local courts and law enforcement agencies, including the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office. We understand that evidence goes cold, and video footage can be quickly overwritten. Let us help you obtain the evidence you need to win your accident claim.

FAQs

How to Request Camera Footage from an Accident?

In Arizona, you can visit the Arizona Department of Public Safety and navigate to their Records Request portal. Here, you can request specific records. Some video records may be available, but camera footage from an accident isn’t specifically offered. Check with local law enforcement agencies for potential camera footage or on-body cam video footage from responding officers.

How Do I Get a Video of a Car Accident?

To get a video of a car accident, check if any nearby businesses have security cameras that may have captured the accident on video. Similarly, in residential areas, neighbors may have Ring cam footage or other home monitoring cameras with video or still images. Ask bystanders if anyone happened to get the accident on video, or if any drivers were using a dash cam and happened to get footage of the accident.

How Much Does Video Footage Records Cost in Arizona?

The cost of video footage records varies by agency. For reference, the AZ Department of Public Safety charges $21.33 for each first half-hour of video footage, plus the fee for the method of delivery. A DVD with video records costs an additional $15, and a flash drive with video records costs an additional $20.

Partner With a Maricopa County Car Accident Lawyer Who Gets Results

If you are still unsure of how to get camera footage of a car accident in Maricopa County, AZ, Luis P. Guerra, L.L.C., can help. Get the legal advice that you need to successfully resolve your case. Our commitment to injured victims is our top priority. We are honored to be able to help you fight for your rights and receive the compensation you deserve. Contact our office to schedule a consultation to discuss your case.