Slip and fall accidents can be challenging to prove, especially when it comes to establishing liability and demonstrating the extent of injuries. One of the most valuable pieces of evidence in these cases is surveillance footage. This visual documentation can significantly influence the outcome of a slip and fall claim. Below, a slip and fall lawyer explores how surveillance helps slip and fall cases and why it’s crucial for both plaintiffs and defendants.
Providing Objective Evidence
Surveillance footage serves as an objective witness that can provide an unbiased account of the events leading up to and following a slip and fall incident. Unlike human witnesses, who may have varying recollections or potential biases, video evidence offers a clear, consistent record of what happened. This can be crucial in establishing the facts of the case, such as the exact time and location of the accident, the condition of the premises, and the actions of both the injured party and any employees or other individuals present at the scene.
Establishing Liability
One of the primary challenges in slip and fall cases is proving who is at fault. Surveillance footage can be instrumental in demonstrating negligence or a lack thereof. For instance, if the video shows that the property owner or their employees failed to address a hazardous condition, such as a wet floor or a loose carpet, it can serve as strong evidence of negligence. Conversely, if the footage shows that the injured party was engaging in reckless behavior, it might indicate that they share some or all of the responsibility for the accident. An attorney can take a look at the footage and let you know how it will affect your case.
Documenting Hazardous Conditions
Surveillance cameras often capture the state of the premises at various times, which can be vital in demonstrating the presence of hazardous conditions. For example, if a slip and fall occurred due to a spill that wasn’t cleaned up in a timely manner, the video might show how long the hazard existed before the accident. Or, it can also establish that proper signage was not put up to address hazards. This can help establish whether the property owner or manager had sufficient time to address the danger but failed to do so, thereby reinforcing the claim of negligence.
Corroborating Witness Testimony
Witnesses can play a significant role in slip and fall cases, but their statements are sometimes called into question. Surveillance footage can corroborate or contradict witness testimony, adding credibility to the account of events. If a witness claims to have seen the hazard or the fall, the video can confirm their presence and perspective. This dual layer of evidence — human and video — can strengthen the overall case and provide a more comprehensive picture of the incident.
Demonstrating The Impact Of The Fall
Surveillance footage not only helps establish the cause of the slip and fall but also illustrates the impact of the accident. The video can show the severity of the fall and the immediate reaction of the injured party. This can be particularly useful in demonstrating the extent of the injuries sustained, which is essential for determining appropriate compensation. Additionally, if the footage shows the injured party immediately seeking help or displaying signs of pain, it can support their claims regarding the seriousness of their injuries. Other surveillance videos can show what happened around the area at the time as well such as how store managers react to the incident.
The Role Of Legal Representation
Attorneys like those at The Andres Lopez Law Firm can attest to the importance of surveillance footage in slip and fall cases. Having an experienced lawyer who understands how to obtain, preserve, and interpret video evidence is crucial. They can request footage from property owners or subpoena it if necessary, ensuring that this critical evidence is not overlooked or tampered with.
Surveillance footage is a powerful tool in slip and fall cases, providing clear, objective evidence that can establish liability. For anyone involved in a slip and fall accident, securing this type of evidence can make a significant difference in the outcome of their case.
If you have been involved in a slip and fall accident, consider reaching out to a qualified attorney to discuss your case and explore your options for securing vital evidence like surveillance footage.