As of October 1, 2024, several automated Iowa traffic cameras in Buffalo, Davenport, Muscatine, and LeClaire were deactivated per a new state law signed into effect by Gov. Kim Reynolds on May 15, 2024. In addition to the deactivation decree enacted across the state, House File 2681 requires that Iowa cities and towns must now request permits for traffic cameras and await approval by the DOT.
Those defending the deactivation of automated traffic cameras claim that local law enforcement agencies were using the cameras more for revenue generation than public safety. Along those assumptions, a new act section (321P.8) of House File 2681 clearly defines how local authorities may not use revenue from an automated camera system.
Conversely, the other side argues that traffic cameras help prioritize traffic safety as a public health issue. The Gazette reported that Iowa’s 2023 traffic death stats (377) were the highest in the state since 2016. Furthermore, the Federal Highway Administration (FHA) released research findings that camera use has helped reduce intersection crashes by up to 40%.
With both arguments in mind, let’s delve deeper into the what, how, and why of automated traffic cameras across Iowa and the role captured footage may play in a personal injury claim.
What Are Iowa Traffic Cameras and How Do They Work?
According to the Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA), automated traffic enforcement systems use camera technology to spot and document traffic violations. These systems commonly focus on detecting speeding and red-light infractions. When a traffic violation occurs, a digital image of the vehicle is taken, and a citation is sent to the vehicle’s registered owner.
For reference, only 11 fixed automated traffic cameras were approved for use out of 139 applications. As a result, there are now only four in Davenport and one in LeClaire.
The Role of Iowa Traffic Cameras in Personal Injury Claims
Now that we understand the general purpose of speed and red light automated Iowa traffic cameras, let’s examine their pros and cons in relation to a personal injury claim.
Pros
- Objective evidence of fault or negligence.
- Timestamped footage for accurate timelines.
- Visual proof for insurance companies or courts.
- Refute false claims or exaggerations by the opposing party.
Cons
- Footage may contradict your claim.
- Limited coverage or unclear footage.
How to Obtain Iowa Traffic Camera Footage
You can obtain a copy of the recording by filling out the DOT Camera Video Request Form. However, before you request traffic camera footage from the Iowa DOT, you should know:
- Iowa DOT records and retains video footage for only seven days. After that, recordings may only be available if they were previously requested.
- Not all Iowa DOT cameras can record video.
- The traffic camera may point in the opposite direction than you want.
- Iowa DOT does not guarantee that cameras are always fully operational.
- The video quality may not be acceptable for your needs.
A personal injury attorney at Winstein, Kavensky & Cunningham can also help you request video footage from other sources, such as law enforcement agencies, public businesses, and private properties.
Contact an Iowa Personal Injury Attorney Near Me
In summary, traffic cameras can be a double-edged sword in personal injury cases. After reviewing the footage, an Iowa personal injury lawyer can advise you if traffic camera footage would benefit or hurt your case. Without or without video, our experienced team can help you uncover the evidence and pursue the compensation you deserve.
Contact us today at (309) 794-1515 to schedule a free initial consultation. Our office hours are 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. For more than 60 years, our experienced legal team has achieved the best possible outcomes for personal injury clients in cities across Iowa, including Bettendorf, Davenport, Clinton, and LeClaire.
The information on this blog is for general information purposes only. Nothing herein should be taken as legal advice for any individual case or situation. This information is not intended to create, and receipt or viewing does not constitute, an attorney-client relationship.