Do Insurance Companies Review Street Cameras?
The reliability and widespread use of street cameras have led many to wonder if and how these devices are used by insurance companies during claims investigations. This article explores the factors influencing how and when insurance companies, particularly in the United States and the United Kingdom, utilize street camera footage.
Why Do Insurance Companies Review Street Cameras?
Insurance companies may review street camera footage as part of their investigation process for claims, especially in cases involving accidents, theft, or vandalism. This footage can provide valuable evidence regarding the circumstances of an incident, such as determining fault in a car accident or confirming the timeline of events. However, access to and availability of this footage can vary based on local laws, privacy regulations, and whether the cameras are publicly or privately owned.
Access and Requirements for Reviewing Street Camera Footage
The availability and access to street camera footage are significant factors in determining whether and how an insurance company reviews this evidence. In the United Kingdom, where there are cameras everywhere, obtaining footage is relatively easy. Conversely, in the United States, where street cameras are few and far between, obtaining the footage can be a long and expensive process.
Insurance companies typically cooperate with law enforcement or other authorities to obtain the necessary footage when needed. This is particularly important in disputes where the facts of the collision are unclear, and the footage could resolve these differences and provide significant cost savings in the defense of the claim. However, unless the loss is known and there is a reason to believe the footage will be useful, insurance companies usually do not make the effort to obtain such footage as it is retained for only a short period.
Frequency and Utility of Street Camera Footage in Claims
Video from CCTV cameras is often used to investigate claims, but this usage varies depending on the circumstances. For instance, in the case of an accident occurring at a busy intersection, it is more likely that street camera footage will be considered. However, if you are involved in an accident near but not at an intersection, the likelihood of the footage being useful decreases.
Collaborative Efforts Between Insurance and Local Authorities
Local authorities, particularly the police department, can request footage from security cameras, including those facing the streets. This is especially useful when investigating incidents such as accidents. Insurance companies may also seek this footage, as was the case when an insurance company inquired about footage of an accident next to a gas station after the local police requested it.
Overall, while insurance companies do review street camera footage in certain situations, the process is not always straightforward. The availability, accessibility, and specific circumstances of the claim significantly influence whether and how these cameras are utilized. As technology advances and privacy laws evolve, we can expect the landscape of how insurance companies gather and use evidence from surveillance to continue changing.