Alpert Schreyer Personal Injury Lawyers | April 28, 2025 | Legal Guidance
Traffic cameras monitor roads and capture evidence after accidents across Maryland. Knowing how long agencies keep this video matters when you need to gather proof. The information below explains how Maryland uses traffic cameras, who controls access, how long footage remains available, and what legal steps to take when video no longer exists.
How Maryland Uses Traffic Cameras in Accident Cases
Traffic cameras record accidents and provide objective views of what occurred. Law enforcement uses this footage to assess liability and clarify disputes. Video can show speed, lane usage, and traffic signal compliance. This footage helps investigators determine fault without relying on conflicting witness reports. Traffic cameras also enforce laws and improve traffic flow across the state.
Maryland agencies rely on this evidence to evaluate conduct, identify violations, and review accident scenes. Footage often reveals dangerous maneuvers, such as sudden lane changes or red-light violations. This clarity strengthens legal arguments in court and during settlement negotiations.
Who Controls Traffic Camera Footage in Maryland?
Local police departments and the Maryland Transportation Authority manage most traffic cameras across the state. These agencies oversee placement, operation, and access. Only authorized staff, such as investigators, can review recorded video.
Strict protocols protect the privacy of those recorded. Footage remains secure and only becomes available for legitimate reasons. Accident victims and their attorneys may submit formal requests to obtain this video. Agencies evaluate each request based on legal standards and privacy rules.
How Long Authorities Store Traffic Camera Video
Most Maryland jurisdictions keep traffic camera video for 30 to 90 days. Retention periods vary based on policy and available resources. Some systems delete footage after a few weeks, while others maintain longer archives. After the retention window closes, video files usually disappear permanently.
Because storage time remains short, quick action matters. You must act soon after the accident to request a video. Delays could result in lost footage and reduced evidence options. Agencies delete files automatically unless preservation requests arrive before the expiration date.
Factors That Affect Video Retention Periods
Each agency follows its own policy on retention. Some counties store footage longer after severe crashes or open investigations. Requests from legal representatives may also prompt preservation. Cases with lawsuits or insurance disputes may lead to extended retention.
Storage capacity and system type also shape these policies. Older systems hold less video and may overwrite data sooner. Budget limits often restrict the expansion of storage infrastructure. These limitations mean you should request footage immediately after the crash.
What Happens When Footage No Longer Exists
If the video no longer exists, evidence options narrow. Without footage, you must rely on witness testimony, police reports, and photographs. These sources often provide less clarity or include inconsistencies. This gap may weaken legal arguments or delay the claim process.
You may need to search for other recordings. Security cameras or dashcams on nearby buildings may offer additional views. These alternatives often fill gaps left by missing traffic camera footage.
Legal Options If You Cannot Obtain Video Evidence
Even if the video you need disappears, you still have legal options. Collect alternate evidence such as photographs, police reports, medical records, or witness statements. Each source contributes to your claim and helps explain what happened.
You should contact a personal injury attorney immediately. We can review your case and determine the next steps. We can also request any available footage before deletion. Our team uses every tool to strengthen your claim, even without traffic camera video.
Schedule a Consultation with a Personal Injury Attorney
If you suffered injuries in a crash and believe traffic cameras recorded the event, a personal injury lawyer can help by requesting video and assessing other available evidence. A good attorney will understand the urgency and know how to act before footage disappears.
Contact the Personal Injury Lawyers at Alpert Schreyer Personal Injury Lawyers in Maryland for Help Today
For more information, please contact Alpert Schreyer Personal Injury Lawyers to schedule a confidential consultation with a personal injury lawyer. Our team is available to assist clients in Lanham, Frederick, Rockville, Waldorf, Maryland.
We proudly serve Charles County, Prince George County its surrounding areas. Visit our law offices at:
Alpert Schreyer Personal Injury Lawyers Waldorf
8 Post Office Rd Waldorf, MD 20602
(301) 932-9997
Available 24/7
Alpert Schreyer Personal Injury Lawyers Lanham
4600 Forbes Blvd Ste #200 Lanham, MD 20706
(301) 936-0011
Available 24/7