Cyclists Use Video Cameras to Document Collisions
Bicyclists are utilizing small head cameras when they cycle, which document rides and also serve as reliable evidence in contested personal injury matters.
October 06, 2012
In the fall of 2012, a 21-year-old cyclist was struck by a vehicle as she biked upon Highway 29 in Alexandria, Minn. After the accident, local police immediately investigated the matter. Unfortunately, little information was available regarding the details of the incident.When someone is injured in a cycling accident, many questions come to mind. Was the biker abiding by local traffic laws? Was the motorist reckless or inattentive? What is the extent of any injuries? In a perfect world, these questions could be resolved quickly if every collision was digitally recorded and documented. However, a personal injury dispute can turn into a long game of he-said, she-said.
The New York Times reports that video evidence in bicycle strikes is finally becoming a reality. With smartphones and other advanced technology playing a role in our daily lives, it is no surprise that cyclists are jumping on the technology train. Specifically, bikers are utilizing small head cameras when they cycle, which document rides and also serve as reliable evidence in contested personal injury matters.
Legal Evidence: Cycling Cameras
The New York Times notes that these cameras play an important role in police investigations of hit-and-runs and other crashes. Attorneys who specialize in representing cyclists say they expect the use of cameras to increase as bicyclists become aware of these high-tech devices. Currently, the cameras are being sold for approximately $200; however, many believe that the price will drop with increased use.
In most cases, experts must conduct thorough accident investigations to determine what occurred. If an investigation concludes that a motorist was negligent, a victim could potentially recover from the driver noneconomic damages like those for emotional distress (recovery beyond the measurable economic damages collected from no-fault insurance).
For example, when a motorist passes a cyclist on Minnesota roads, the driver must maintain at least three feet of distance between the biker and car. If a driver does not follow this law and an accident occurs, the motorist could be found negligent. Video from a head-mounted camera can assist with such an investigation, thus aiding experts and attorneys in the assessment of accident liability.
Cameras Help Solve Investigations and Encourage Safe Driving and Cycling
The cameras have been helpful in tracking down reckless drivers. For example, two cyclists were climbing the steep hills of Berkley, Calif., when they were knocked down by a hit-and-run motorist. One cyclist wore a head camera during the event, and the documented incident helped investigators identify the license plate number of the vehicle involved in the collision. The owner of the car was tracked down immediately.
Accidents happen in a matter of seconds. Even the most attentive biker experiences difficulty in recalling details of a crash -- especially when injuries are severe. Ultimately, this technology can not only serve as viable evidence in personal injury cases, but also can encourage bikers and motorists to obey traffic and riding laws.
If you or a loved one has been injured by a motorist in a biking accident, you may want to speak with a knowledgeable personal injury attorney about your options for recovery.
Article provided by McSweeney & Fay, P.L.L.P.
Visit us at www.mcfay.com