How Long Do Businesses Retain Video Footage?

When an accident occurs, whether it’s a slip and fall, a car crash, or another type of incident, nearby businesses may inadvertently capture the event on their security cameras. This footage can be invaluable in supporting a recovery claim, providing clear and objective evidence of what transpired.

Time is of the essence when it comes to securing this video evidence, as businesses do not keep footage indefinitely. If you are in a situation where you believe footage was captured, talk to a Miami personal injury lawyer about how to secure this documentation as soon as possible.

Retention Timelines Vary

There is no set period when it comes to business security video retention. Often the timelines significantly shift depending on the type of business. Some general retention guidelines follow.

• Small retail shops. Many small businesses only retain footage for a short period, typically between 7 to 14 days. Limited storage capacity often dictates these shorter retention times.
• Chain restaurants. National chains may have more resources to store footage for longer periods, so they may keep documentation for up to 30 days, but policies vary.
• Financial institutions. Due to security concerns, banks and other financial organizations typically retain footage for a longer period, often ranging from 90 days to 6 months, and sometimes even longer.
• Hotels and casinos. These establishments typically have extensive surveillance systems and may retain footage for 30 days to several months, depending on their policies.
• Public transportation. Buses, trains, and other public transportation services might retain footage for 30 days, but this can vary by agency and specific regulation.
• Parking garages. These facilities often have surveillance to monitor safety and security. Footage retention can range from 7 to 30 days.
• Convenience stores. Many convenience stores retain footage for about 14 days.

Surveillance footage can serve as crucial evidence in an accident claim because unlike witness testimonies, which can be subjective and prone to inaccuracies, video footage provides an objective record of the incident.

Additionally, footage can clarify critical details, such as the exact sequence of events, the actions of those involved, and contributing factors like weather or road conditions when an auto accident occurred. Clear video evidence helps to establish fault, which is vital for a successful recovery claim.

Importance of Acting Quickly

Given the varying retention periods, it is crucial to act quickly to secure video footage following an accident. An experienced Miami personal injury lawyer can act promptly to identify businesses that may have relevant footage.

Next, your lawyer can send preservation letters to businesses, requesting that they retain and provide the specific footage related to your accident. In addition to video footage, your lawyer can gather other evidence such as witness statements, police reports, and medical records to strengthen your claim as well.

Was a Florida accident you were involved in captured on a nearby camera? The legal team at Spencer Morgan Law will formally request footage and use the video evidence in conjunction with other pieces of evidence to build a compelling case for your recovery claim. Book your confidential consultation today, call 305-423-3800.