The Role of Surveillance Footage in Proving Fault in Slip and Fall Cases

When navigating a slip and fall claim, every piece of evidence is important. Surveillance footage can be one of the most valuable pieces of evidence in your claim. From businesses to street corners, cameras are in most public places, constantly recording and often capturing vital proof of accidents and injuries.  

Here's a closer look at how security footage can help prove liability in slip and fall accidents. 

Unbiased Witness 

Humans are flawed. Our memories might become unclear, and our recollections can become unintentionally distorted. Surveillance cameras, on the other hand, simply capture events as they occur, providing an unedited and unbiased account of the situation. This "digital witness" can be an effective tool for confirming or rejecting allegations made by both parties. 

Establishing Negligence 

A key aspect of a slip and fall lawsuit is proving that the property owner or manager was negligent, resulting in unsafe conditions. Surveillance footage has the ability to reveal: 

  • Wet or slippery floors without warning signs. 
  • Tripping hazards left unattended. 
  • The time span a hazard was present before the accident, indicating the owner's awareness (or lack thereof). 

Clarifying Sequence of Events 

It isn't just about the slip and fall. The events preceding and following the tragedy can be equally crucial. Surveillance can provide answers to questions such as: 

  • Was the injured party acting carelessly? 
  • Did the property staff react appropriately post-incident? 
  • Were there other witnesses present? 

Corroborating Injury Severity 

Sometimes, the extent of the injuries reported is called into question. Video footage can support claims of how bad the injury was by showing the injured person struggling, asking for help, or showing signs of concern after the accident. 

Countering Fraudulent Claims 

While many slip-and-fall claims are true, sometimes they are overstated or made up. Surveillance video can help disprove these kinds of claims by showing what really happened and making sure the process is fair. 

What if the Footage is Deleted or Unavailable? 

Surveillance can be very helpful, but sometimes footage gets lost, erased, or isn't available. In California, you need to act quickly. A lawyer can send a protection letter to the property owner to make sure that important footage is retained so that it can be studied. If the footage truly isn’t available, a strong case can still be made with other types of evidence and witness comments. 

Speak to a California Slip and Fall Attorney Today 

Slip and fall accidents are typically complicated, but surveillance footage can help support your claims and strengthen your case in California's personal injury court system. Whether you're an injured party or a property owner, understanding and valuing surveillance ensures a clear and reasonable response. 

Harris Personal Injury Attorneys has represented California slip and fall victims for decades. We can provide aggressive representation and dependable guidance throughout the process, helping you secure the evidence you need to build a successful claim. Call 1-800-GO-HARRIS or visit our contact page to schedule a free case assessment with a California slip and fall attorney.