If you have been injured in a car accident that was not your fault, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries, pain, and financial losses. However, one of the biggest challenges after an accident is proving exactly what happened. Drivers and insurers rarely accept blame straight away, and disputes about fault are common.
This is where CCTV footage can make a real difference. Video evidence can clearly show how the accident occurred, who was responsible, and what happened in the moments leading up to the collision. In many cases, it can prevent long arguments and help your claim move forward more quickly.
This guide explains, in simple terms, how you can obtain CCTV footage after a car accident, what your legal rights are, and how this evidence can support your compensation claim.
Why CCTV footage is so important after a car accident
After a road traffic accident, different people often remember events in different ways. Statements from drivers and witnesses can be challenged, especially if they conflict with each other. Insurers may argue that your recollection is mistaken or incomplete.
CCTV footage avoids this problem. Cameras capture events exactly as they happened. When available, footage can show:
- The position and speed of vehicles
- Traffic signals and road conditions
- Who failed to give way or broke traffic rules
- The exact moment of impact
Because of this, CCTV footage is often one of the strongest forms of evidence you can use. If you are wondering about obtaining CCTV footage for an insurance claim, acting quickly and correctly is essential.
Common places where CCTV cameras record car accidents
You may be surprised by how many cameras are operating in public and private spaces. Car accidents are often captured without drivers even realising it at the time.
CCTV cameras are commonly found in:
- Public car parks
- Supermarket car parks
- Busy high streets
- Major roads and junctions
- Multi-storey car parks
- Outside shops and offices
- On buses and other public transport
- Private homes with external security cameras
In some cases, another road user’s dashcam may also have recorded your accident. Footage from these sources can be just as valuable as traditional CCTV recordings.
Act quickly – CCTV footage is often deleted
Time is critical when it comes to CCTV recordings. Many systems do not store footage for long periods.
Some organisations manually delete recordings every few weeks, while others have systems that automatically overwrite footage after a short time. In many cases, data may only be kept for around 30 days, or even less.
If you delay your request, there is a real risk that the footage will be lost permanently. This is why it is important to take action as soon as possible, even if you are still recovering from your injuries.
Can I request CCTV footage of an accident?
A common question after a collision is: can I request CCTV footage of an accident?
In the UK, the answer is yes – in many situations, you have the legal right to request footage that shows you.
Under data protection law, you are entitled to access personal data held about you. This includes CCTV images or recordings in which you can be identified.
To make this request, you must first establish who owns or operates the camera that captured the incident.
How to identify the owner of a CCTV camera
The first practical step is to identify who controls the camera. Sometimes this is obvious, but in other cases it may take a little investigation.
You can try:
- Looking for signs near the camera showing ownership details
- Asking staff at nearby businesses
- Checking with the local council if the camera is in a public area
- Speaking to your insurer, who may already know which authority operates local cameras
For example, if the accident happened in a supermarket car park, the camera is likely operated by the supermarket. If it occurred on a main road, the footage may belong to the local authority or a national highways body.
How to request CCTV footage after a car accident
Once you have identified the camera owner, you can make a request for the footage. This can be done in writing or verbally, although written requests are usually better as they create a record.
When requesting footage, you should provide clear and specific details to help the organisation locate the correct recording. This includes:
- The date of the accident
- The exact time (as accurately as possible)
- The precise location
- Your vehicle’s registration number
- The make, model, and colour of your vehicle
- A brief description of the accident
- A description of yourself
You will also need to provide proof of identity. This helps the organisation confirm that the footage contains your personal data.
Making a Subject Access Request (SAR)
The formal way to request CCTV footage is by making what is known as a Subject Access Request, often shortened to SAR.
Under the Data Protection Act 2018 and UK GDPR, you have the right to request access to personal data held about you. CCTV recordings fall within this definition.
When submitting a SAR:
- You can make the request verbally or in writing
- The organisation usually cannot charge a fee
- They are normally required to respond within 30 days
However, because CCTV footage may be deleted before this period ends, it is important to explain that your request is urgent. Following up with a phone call can help ensure your request is dealt with quickly.
Organisations you may request CCTV footage from
Depending on where your accident occurred, you may need to submit a SAR to different organisations.
Common examples include:
- Your local council
- National highways authorities
- The police
- Transport operators
- Private businesses such as shops or car parks
Each organisation has its own process, but your legal rights remain the same across all of them.
When access to CCTV footage may be refused
Although you have strong rights under data protection law, access to CCTV footage is not guaranteed in all cases.
Your request may be refused if:
- Other individuals can be clearly identified and their identities cannot be obscured
- Providing the footage could damage an ongoing criminal investigation
- The footage no longer exists because it has already been deleted
If your request is refused, the organisation should explain the reasons. If you are finding it difficult to obtain footage, a solicitor may be able to assist by making the request on your behalf.
Using solicitors or insurers to request CCTV footage
In many cases, it can be more effective to ask your insurer or solicitor to request the footage.
They are familiar with the legal process and often receive quicker responses from organisations. This approach can reduce stress for you, especially if you are dealing with injuries or ongoing medical treatment.
If your claim is already underway, your solicitor can also use the footage strategically to support your version of events and challenge any disputes about liability.
Using CCTV footage as evidence in a compensation claim
CCTV footage is rarely used on its own. It works best when combined with other supporting evidence.
Alongside CCTV recordings, you may also need:
- Witness details and statements
- Photographs of the accident scene
- Medical records and reports
- Evidence of financial losses, such as lost earnings or travel expenses
Together, this evidence helps show how the accident happened, who was responsible, and how the injuries have affected you.
How CCTV footage can strengthen your claim
Video evidence often makes the question of fault much clearer. Insurers are less likely to argue liability when the events are shown clearly on camera.
By securing CCTV footage early, you:
- Reduce the risk of disputes
- Speed up the claims process
- Strengthen your position in negotiations
- Improve your chances of receiving fair compensation
This is why obtaining CCTV footage for an insurance claim should be treated as a priority after a car accident.
Claiming compensation after a car accident
If you decide to pursue a compensation claim, expert legal support can make the process easier. A solicitor can assess your case, gather evidence, and handle communication with insurers and third parties.
If your case is accepted, the solicitor will use CCTV footage and other evidence to build your claim. Many work on a No Win No Fee basis, which means you do not pay upfront and only contribute if the claim is successful.
Final thoughts
After a car accident, it is natural to feel overwhelmed and unsure about what to do next. Evidence plays a crucial role in any compensation claim, and CCTV footage can be one of the most powerful tools available.
By acting quickly, identifying the camera owner, and making a clear request, you improve your chances of securing vital footage before it is deleted. If you are unsure or face difficulties, professional guidance can help protect your rights.
Understanding how to access CCTV recordings puts you in a stronger position and gives you clarity at a time when you need it most.