Q: Can I request dashcam footage for a Speeding Ticket?
In Washington State, Kitsap County.
I got a traffic ticket for going 78 MPH in a 60 MPH zone. I know for a fact that I was not going that fast, I would have accepted a ticket for going 68-70 MPH as that is how fast I was going.
A couple moments before I got pulled over by the officer I pulled over into the right hand lane to let someone(more than likely the person he clocked) pass me. After I let him pass I went back into the left hand lane to slowly go by those in the right hand lane. I look up in my rear view mirror and see flashing lights less than a foot behind my vehicle.
Am I able to request the dashcam footage of me being pulled over by the officer to show the court the speed the dashcam shows the moment I was getting pulled over?
A:
Sure, you can request the dash video. Generally speaking, WSP and the cities have dash cameras, the sheriff's office does not. There are some exceptions, but just be aware not every police car has a dash cam. The best way to obtain the video is normally through a public records request, which may easily take 30 days to get. You can also request the officer's written report, which is possibly more helpful to you.
You should also be aware that the dash cam may not show the speed; in fact I would be very surprised if your speed is shown on dash video.
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