How To Access Traffic Camera Footage in Pennsylvania

October 28, 2025 | Car Accidents

How To Access Traffic Camera Footage

Knowing how to access traffic camera footage can be crucial after a car accident in Wyomissing, Pennsylvania. Traffic cameras capture critical evidence that shows exactly how accidents happen, who had the right of way, and which drivers violated traffic laws. 

This footage often provides the most accurate account of accident circumstances and can make or break your personal injury claim. Here’s more about what you need to know. 

Why Traffic Camera Footage Is Important

Traffic camera footage provides an unbiased record of what happened during a traffic accident. Unlike witness statements that rely on memory, video shows the actual sequence of events.

This footage can prove who ran a red light, who failed to yield, or who was speeding. It captures details that witnesses might miss or remember incorrectly. Insurance companies and courts give significant weight to video evidence.

Types of Traffic Cameras That May Capture Accidents

Different types of cameras monitor Pennsylvania roadways, and each serves different purposes. Understanding which cameras might have recorded your accident helps you know where to request footage.

Common types of traffic cameras include:

  • Red light cameras at intersections to catch traffic violations
  • Speed enforcement cameras in high-traffic zones
  • Traffic monitoring cameras managed by PennDOT
  • Toll booth cameras on highways and turnpikes
  • Municipal cameras operated by local police departments
  • Private security cameras from nearby businesses

Not all traffic cameras record and store footage. Some only provide live feeds for traffic monitoring without recording. Identifying which cameras record is an important first step.

Time Sensitivity for Requesting Footage

Acting quickly is essential when requesting traffic camera footage. Most systems automatically delete recordings after a short period, typically 30 to 90 days.

Some systems delete footage even sooner, within just a few weeks. Once deleted, this evidence is lost forever and cannot be recovered. Insurance companies and government agencies won’t recreate or restore deleted footage.

Identifying Which Cameras Recorded Your Accident

Before requesting footage, you need to determine which cameras might have captured your accident. This requires identifying camera locations and ownership.

Steps to identify relevant cameras:

  • Return to the accident scene and look for cameras on traffic signals and poles
  • Note the camera directions and whether they face the accident location
  • Take photos of the cameras to document their positions
  • Check nearby buildings for private security cameras
  • Research which agency operates cameras in that area

The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) operates many traffic cameras throughout the state. Local police departments and municipalities also maintain camera systems in their jurisdictions. Identifying the owner determines where you send your request.

Submitting Requests to Government Agencies

Requesting traffic camera or video footage from government agencies in Pennsylvania requires following specific procedures. 

Key steps for submitting requests include:

  • Identify the agency that owns or operates the camera, such as PennDOT, a local police department, or a municipality.
  • Submit a written request using the agency’s required form or online portal.
  • Include the date, specific time, and exact location of the incident.
  • Provide enough detail to help officials locate the correct footage.
  • Include your contact information and preferred delivery method.

Most government agencies offer online forms for record requests. Under Pennsylvania’s Right-to-Know Law (RTKL), agencies must respond within five business days. Requests involving law enforcement recordings under Act 22 require a response within 30 days. 

If approved, the agency will provide information about any fees and how the materials will be shared.

Requesting Footage From Private Sources

Private businesses often have security cameras that capture accidents on nearby roads. Strategies for obtaining private footage:

  • Visit businesses near the accident location personally
  • Ask politely about their camera systems and footage
  • Explain your situation and why you need the video
  • Provide your contact information for follow-up
  • Be respectful if they decline to help voluntarily

Private property owners are not obligated to provide footage to the public. However, many businesses cooperate when approached politely. If businesses refuse voluntary cooperation, attorneys can issue subpoenas requiring them to preserve and produce footage. 

Obtaining traffic camera footage can be complicated and time-consuming. Legal assistance often makes the process more successful.

Benefits of legal assistance include:

  • Attorneys understand public records laws and effective request procedures
  • They can quickly identify camera owners and proper channels
  • Formal preservation demands carry more weight than individual requests
  • Lawyers can appeal denials or file court motions when needed
  • They know how to challenge improper denials and enforce your rights

Time sensitivity makes early legal involvement valuable. Don’t wait until footage is deleted to seek help with your case.

Contact a Car Accident Attorney Today

Traffic camera footage can be the key to proving fault and strengthening your personal injury claim after a car accident in Wyomissing. However, obtaining this evidence requires quick action and a clear understanding of Pennsylvania’s public records process.

If you were injured in a car accident in Wyomissing, Marzzacco Niven & Associates can help guide you through the aftermath. Call us today to schedule your free consultation with a car accident lawyer.

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