CCTV Footage Won’t Override Witness Testimony
Here’s the situation: I found some CCTV footage that supports my claim that another driver forced my car off the road.
You can view the video here: https://imgur.com/a/LzHM3FJ
In the footage, you can see the other driver’s white SUV move into my lane, pushing my sedan into the snow. While the angle of the video isn’t perfect, it clearly shows that their vehicle intruded into my lane and caused me to lose control. Despite this evidence, the insurance adjuster insists on siding with the witness, who claims that I was the one who changed lanes.
As a result, I am being held at fault due to the witness’s statement. Isn’t video evidence supposed to carry more weight than just a verbal account?
I’m looking for advice on how to handle this situation with my insurance company. Is there any way to contest this decision, or am I stuck with an at-fault record?
It can be incredibly frustrating when you believe you have clear evidence to support your claim, but the insurance adjuster isn’t accepting it. Here are some steps you can take to strengthen your case:
Document Everything: Make sure you keep a detailed record of all communications with your insurance company and any other relevant parties. Note dates, times, and what was discussed.
Get Legal Advice: Consider consulting with a legal expert who specializes in auto accidents or insurance disputes. They can provide advice tailored to your situation and may be able to advocate on your behalf.
Gather More Evidence: If possible, try to find additional evidence that supports your claim. This could include more CCTV footage from nearby cameras, photos of the scene, or even gathering statements from other potential witnesses.
Request a Review of Your Claim: You can ask your insurance company for a review of your claim, emphasizing the CCTV footage and how it contradicts the witness statement. Present your evidence clearly and concisely.
Formal Complaint: If your insurance adjuster continues to dismiss your evidence, you might consider filing a formal complaint with your insurance company. Most companies have a process for this, and it can sometimes prompt a closer review of your case.
Insurance Ombudsman: If you feel your insurer is not handling your case fairly, you can escalate the matter to your provincial insurance ombudsman. They can provide guidance and may intervene if they find your insurer has acted improperly.
Understand Your Policy: Review your insurance policy to understand how fault is determined in your specific situation and what provisions you have regarding disputes.
Ultimately, while eyewitness accounts can carry weight, video evidence should also be considered seriously. Stay persistent and don’t hesitate to seek out the necessary support to challenge this decision.