Buffalo Car Accident Lawyers
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Buffalo experiences thousands of car accidents each year, ranging from rear-end collisions to serious truck and Uber-related crashes. This guide explains exactly what steps you should take immediately after a Buffalo car accident, how New York no-fault insurance impacts your case, types of injuries we handle, your 3-year statute of limitations, and the compensation you may recover. Andrews, Bernstein & Maranto, PLLC specializes in maximizing recovery for car accident victims in Buffalo and nearby areas, offering free consultations to guide you every step of the way.
What to Do Immediately After a Car Accident in Buffalo
Being involved in a car accident can be overwhelming, but acting quickly and correctly can protect your rights and improve your case outcome. Here are the steps every accident victim in Buffalo should take:
- Ensure Safety: Move your vehicle to a safe location, if possible, and turn on hazard lights to alert other drivers.
- Call 911: Contact emergency services for police and medical assistance. Having an official report can help establish fault.
- Check for Injuries: Assess yourself and passengers. Seek immediate medical attention for any injuries, even if they seem minor at first. Delayed symptoms are common.
- Document the Scene: Take detailed photographs of all vehicles, license plates, skid marks, road conditions, traffic signs, and the surrounding area.
- Collect Information: Exchange names, phone numbers, and insurance details with all drivers involved. Also, collect witness contact information when available.
- Notify Your Insurance Company: Report the accident promptly but avoid admitting fault or making statements that could be misinterpreted.
- Contact a Buffalo Car Accident Lawyer: Before signing any settlement or speaking extensively with insurance adjusters, contact Andrews, Bernstein & Maranto, PLLC. Legal guidance ensures your rights are protected.
Taking these steps can prevent errors that often reduce recovery or lead to disputes over fault.
How New York No-Fault Insurance Affects Your Case
New York has a no-fault insurance system designed to cover medical expenses and lost wages regardless of who caused the accident. Here’s how it affects your case:
- Immediate Coverage: Your own insurance policy provides coverage for medical bills, lost income, and certain other expenses.
- Limits to No-Fault Coverage: For severe injuries—like permanent disability, serious disfigurement, or significant impairment—you may be eligible to pursue compensation beyond no-fault insurance.
- Legal Guidance: A Buffalo car accident lawyer can determine when to file a lawsuit and ensure all documentation is submitted correctly, protecting your right to maximum recovery.
- Insurance Company Tactics: Adjusters may attempt to settle quickly or undervalue claims. Having legal representation ensures you do not accept less than you deserve.
Understanding no-fault rules early prevents costly mistakes and helps you navigate the claims process effectively.
Types of Car Accident Injuries We Handle
Car accidents in Buffalo can result in a wide range of injuries. Our team has extensive experience handling cases involving:
- Whiplash and Neck Injuries: Common in rear-end collisions; may require physical therapy or chiropractic care.
- Back and Spinal Cord Injuries: These can lead to chronic pain or permanent impairment, significantly affecting quality of life.
- Head Injuries and Concussions: Even mild concussions can have long-term cognitive effects.
- Broken Bones and Fractures: Often require surgery and extended recovery periods.
- Internal Injuries: May not be immediately apparent but can be life-threatening if untreated.
- Soft Tissue Damage: Sprains, strains, and ligament tears are common and may require long-term treatment.
- Emotional Trauma: PTSD and anxiety resulting from an accident are recognized injuries in New York personal injury law.
Proper documentation and early legal intervention ensure these injuries are fully recognized in your claim.
How Long You Have to File – NY Statute of Limitations
Time is critical in filing a personal injury claim in New York. The statute of limitations for most car accident claims is 3 years from the date of the accident. Key points include:
- Filing after the 3-year period usually prevents recovery entirely.
- Exceptions exist for minors or cases involving government entities.
- Immediate consultation with a Buffalo car accident lawyer ensures compliance with deadlines and preservation of evidence.
What Compensation You May Recover
Victims of car accidents in Buffalo may be entitled to various types of compensation depending on the circumstances:
- Medical Expenses: Includes past and future treatment, hospital bills, therapy, and medication.
- Lost Wages and Lost Earning Capacity: Compensation for income lost due to recovery or long-term inability to work.
- Pain and Suffering: Emotional and physical distress resulting from the accident.
- Property Damage: Repair or replacement of vehicles and personal property damaged in the collision.
- Emotional Distress: PTSD, anxiety, and trauma are recognized claims under New York law.
- Punitive Damages: In cases of extreme negligence or reckless behavior, additional damages may be awarded.
Our Buffalo car accident lawyers tailor claims to maximize recovery, considering both economic and non-economic damages.
Why Choose Andrews, Bernstein & Maranto, PLLC
Choosing the right attorney can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case:
- Local Expertise: Deep knowledge of Buffalo and Erie County roads, courts, and insurance practices.
- Trial Experience: Proven success in negotiating settlements and litigating cases when necessary.
- Personalized Guidance: Each client receives individualized attention to navigate the claims process.
- Free Consultation: Speak with an attorney at no cost and understand your options before making decisions.
Mistakes to Avoid After a Car Accident in Buffalo, NY
Being in a car accident can be scary and confusing. What you do after a crash can make a big difference in your case. Many people make mistakes that hurt their chances of getting the money they deserve. At Andrews, Bernstein & Maranto, PLLC, we help people in Buffalo understand their rights and avoid these common errors.
Hiring the Wrong Lawyer
Not all lawyers handle trials. Insurance companies know which lawyers go to trial and which ones usually settle cases. If you hire a lawyer who has little trial experience, the insurance company may not take your case seriously. This can lead to lower settlement offers.
A Buffalo car accident lawyer from our firm can handle your case from start to finish. We know how insurance companies work and can make sure your claim is taken seriously.
Waiting Too Long for Medical Treatment
Some people think their injuries are minor and wait to see a doctor. This is a mistake. Injuries can get worse over time, and insurance companies may claim that your injuries were not caused by the accident. Seeking medical care right away documents your injuries. Our Buffalo car accident lawyers can help you understand what treatments to start and how to track your recovery.
Not Following Your Doctor’s Orders
It is important to follow your doctor’s instructions exactly. Skipping appointments, therapy sessions, or not taking medicine can make it look like your injuries are not serious. Insurance companies may use this to lower your settlement. We guide our clients to follow their treatment plans and make sure the insurance company knows you are getting proper care.
Talking to Insurance Companies Without a Lawyer
Insurance adjusters often call right after a car accident. They may ask questions about what happened or try to get you to agree to a quick settlement. Anything you say can be used against you later. Our Buffalo car accident lawyers handle all communication with insurance companies. We make sure you do not say anything that could hurt your claim.
Frequently Asked Questions About Car Accidents in Buffalo, NY
1. What should I do immediately after a car accident in Buffalo?
After a crash, your safety comes first. Move to a safe area, call 911 for police and medical help, and document the scene with photos. Collect contact and insurance information from other drivers and witnesses. Avoid admitting fault or making statements about the accident. Contact Buffalo Car Accident Lawyers as soon as possible to protect your rights.
- Do I need to see a doctor if I feel fine?
Yes. Injuries from car accidents, such as whiplash or internal injuries, may not appear immediately. Medical documentation helps support your injury claim and ensures your health is protected. Our Buffalo Car Accident Lawyers can guide you on the types of medical evaluations to get after a crash.
3. How does New York no-fault insurance affect my claim?
New York requires drivers to carry no-fault insurance, which covers medical bills and lost wages regardless of who caused the accident. For serious injuries, you may be able to pursue additional compensation beyond no-fault limits. A Buffalo Car Accident Lawyer can explain your rights and help you file claims properly.
4. How long do I have to file a car accident claim in New York?
Most personal injury claims must be filed within three years from the date of the accident. Filing after this statute of limitations may prevent you from recovering compensation. Our Buffalo Car Accident Lawyers ensure your claim is filed on time and all evidence is preserved.
5. What kinds of injuries do Buffalo car accident lawyers handle?
We handle a wide range of injuries, including:
- Whiplash and neck injuries
- Back and spinal injuries
- Head injuries and concussions
- Broken bones and fractures
- Internal injuries
- Emotional trauma and pain and suffering
Documenting these injuries with proper medical care is essential for your claim.
6. What compensation can I recover after a car accident?
Depending on your case, compensation may include:
- Medical bills (past and future)
- Lost wages and lost earning potential
- Pain and suffering
- Property damage
- Emotional distress
- In severe cases, punitive damages
A Buffalo Car Accident Lawyer can review your situation and help you pursue all available compensation.
7. Should I talk to the insurance company?
It is not recommended to speak with insurance adjusters without legal guidance. They may try to settle quickly or minimize your claim. Our Buffalo Car Accident Lawyers handle all communication to protect your rights and ensure any settlement reflects your true damages.
8. Why should I hire a trial-ready lawyer?
Insurance companies pay closer attention to attorneys who are willing to take cases to trial. If your case requires litigation, having a lawyer who can confidently represent you in court strengthens your position and often leads to higher settlements.
9. How can Andrews, Bernstein & Maranto, PLLC help me?
We guide clients through every step after a Buffalo car accident. We explain your rights, help you document injuries, communicate with insurance companies, and work to secure fair compensation. We offer free consultations to answer your questions and create a clear plan for your claim.
Benjamin J.
Andrews
Partner
Robert
Maranto
Partner
Tom
Kotrys
Partner
Robert J.
Maranto, III
Attorney
Thanon
Rezvi
Attorney
Rea Marcelo
Roxas
Attorney
Contact Buffalo Car Accident Lawyers Today
If you were seriously injured in a car accident in Buffalo, NY, you do not have to face the insurance companies or the legal process alone. Andrews, Bernstein & Maranto, PLLC is here to guide you every step of the way.
We offer free consultations, so you can speak with a Buffalo Car Accident Lawyer and learn your options without any cost. We also work on a contingency fee basis, which means you never owe any money unless we secure a successful result on your claim. This ensures you can focus on your recovery while we handle the legal work.
How the Legal Process Works
- Initial Consultation: We review your accident, injuries, and insurance coverage. We explain your rights and the potential compensation you may be entitled to.
- Investigation and Documentation: We gather evidence, medical records, and accident reports to build a strong claim.
- Negotiation with Insurance: Our team communicates with the insurance company to seek a fair settlement that covers medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
- Filing a Lawsuit if Needed: If the insurance company refuses a fair settlement, we are prepared to take your case to court.
- Settlement or Trial: We aim for the best possible outcome, whether through negotiation or litigation, to ensure your recovery is protected.
Your recovery is our priority. Every step of the process is handled with care, attention, and a focus on securing the compensation you need to move forward.
Do not wait to get the help you deserve. Contact Buffalo Car Accident Lawyers at Andrews, Bernstein & Maranto, PLLC today to schedule your free consultation. Let us guide you through this challenging time and help you get back on the road to recovery.
The team is very personable, patient and empathetic with their clients. They are upfront with you and will explain the entire process with you, they never lead you to believe otherwise, they tell you like it is and will not sell you a million dollar dream. Trust in Andrews, Bernstein & Maranto, PLLC, they work for you and he looks out for your best interest.”
- Jane D.
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Client Reviews
“Couldn’t be happier with the way my case was handled. A very thorough, encouraging , professional and hands-on firm to work with. You are treated with respect, and not merely as a number here.”
– Todd Hannel
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Client Reviews
I can’t say enough about Bob Maranto and his team! They truly helped me through one of the most difficult times of my life. They were always so positive, accessible, and communicative. I highly recommend this firm if you are looking for a team that will go above and beyond, and will take some of the load off of dealing with a personal injury. I felt like Bob and his team allowed me to have some peace of mind while I was recovering. Definitely hire this firm, you won’t regret it!