Car accidents can happen at any time, and no one is ever fully prepared for the aftermath. However, knowing how to react can make all the difference in ensuring your safety, protecting your legal rights, and securing the compensation you may be entitled to. Whether you’ve been in a minor fender bender or a more serious collision, your response after the accident will play a crucial role in the outcome of your case. This comprehensive guide outlines the steps you should take after a car accident in Buffalo to protect your health, rights, and financial future.
Stay Calm and Assess the Situation 
The first step after a car accident is to remain calm. In the moments following the crash, it’s natural to feel a rush of emotions. However, taking a few deep breaths will help clear your mind. Ensure that you and your passengers are safe. If possible, move your vehicle to the side of the road to prevent further accidents, but never leave the scene of the incident. In New York, leaving the scene of an accident can lead to serious legal consequences.
After moving your vehicle, check for injuries. Even if the accident seems minor, it’s always a good idea to seek medical attention. Injuries such as whiplash or internal trauma can sometimes take hours or even days to show symptoms. If anyone is injured, call 911 immediately to request medical assistance.
Contact the Police and File a Report
In Buffalo, New York, it’s mandatory to report accidents that cause injury or property damage. After ensuring your safety and calling emergency services, contact the local police. Officers will arrive at the scene, document the incident, and create an official police report. This report will be invaluable when filing insurance claims or pursuing a personal injury lawsuit.
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While the police are investigating the accident, it’s important to avoid admitting fault or making statements that could be used against you later. Let the police gather all the details and determine who was at fault. Simply provide them with an accurate account of what happened, and let the authorities handle the rest.
Collect Evidence and Information
Collecting evidence at the scene of the accident is crucial for your claim. The more information you gather, the better your chances of a successful resolution. Start by taking clear, detailed photos of the scene. This includes pictures of the damage to the vehicles involved, any injuries, and the surrounding area, including traffic signs and road conditions.
Make sure to exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver(s). This should include names, addresses, phone numbers, driver’s license numbers, and license plate numbers. Additionally, ask any witnesses to provide their contact details. Witness testimony can be valuable in confirming the details of the accident.
If you received medical treatment, keep copies of all medical records and bills. This documentation is essential for proving the extent of your injuries and the medical costs associated with your treatment. It’s also a good idea to keep track of any lost wages if your injuries caused you to miss work.
Notify Your Insurance Company
After gathering information, contact your insurance company to report the accident. Most insurance policies require you to notify them within a certain period, so it’s important to act quickly. When contacting your insurer, provide them with all the necessary details, including the police report, the information from the other driver(s), and any photos you took at the scene.
Be mindful that insurance companies are often more interested in protecting their bottom line than in fairly compensating accident victims. It’s not uncommon for insurance adjusters to downplay the severity of your injuries or try to offer a low settlement. Having an attorney by your side can help ensure that you receive a fair offer.
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.
Seek Legal Assistance from a Buffalo Car Accident Lawyer
If you’ve been injured in a car accident, it’s wise to seek legal representation as soon as possible. The aftermath of a crash can be complicated, especially if you’re dealing with serious injuries or disputes over liability. A skilled car accident lawyer from Andrews, Bernstein & Maranto, PLLC can help protect your interests and ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve.
Your attorney will assist with the claims process, handle negotiations with insurance companies, and if necessary, represent you in court. They will also help you understand your legal rights and advise you on the best course of action moving forward. Personal injury attorneys have the experience and knowledge to navigate complex cases, ensuring that all aspects of your recovery are addressed.
Understand the Statute of Limitations in Buffalo, New York
In New York, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim related to a car accident is three years from the date of the accident. This means you have three years to file a lawsuit if you wish to pursue legal action. However, it’s essential to remember that evidence and witnesses may become harder to obtain as time passes, so it’s always best to contact an attorney as soon as possible to ensure that all necessary steps are taken promptly.
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Keep Track of Medical Treatments and Follow-up Care
Even if your injuries don’t seem serious at first, it’s important to follow through with medical treatments. Some injuries, like whiplash, may not become apparent until hours or days later. By keeping up with follow-up appointments and adhering to your doctor’s recommendations, you ensure that you are taking the necessary steps for a full recovery. It also helps to strengthen your case if you decide to pursue a personal injury claim.
Moreover, medical documentation of your injuries will be critical in determining the amount of compensation you may be entitled to. If you miss medical appointments or fail to follow your doctor’s advice, it may negatively affect your ability to secure the compensation you deserve.
What Compensation Can You Expect After a Car Accident?
If you’ve been injured in a car accident in Buffalo, you may be entitled to several forms of compensation, including:
- Medical Expenses: This includes all costs related to your medical treatment, including hospital bills, doctor visits, surgery, medication, and rehabilitation.
- Lost Wages: If your injuries prevent you from working, you may be entitled to compensation for the income you’ve lost during your recovery.
- Pain and Suffering: This type of compensation addresses the physical and emotional toll the accident has taken on your life.
- Property Damage: If your vehicle was damaged in the accident, you may be entitled to repair or replacement costs.
Every case is unique, and the amount of compensation you can receive will depend on factors such as the severity of your injuries, the degree of fault involved, and the impact the accident has had on your life. Your lawyer will help ensure that all aspects of your case are thoroughly considered.
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Why You Should Choose Andrews, Bernstein & Maranto, PLLC
At Andrews, Bernstein & Maranto, PLLC, we understand the challenges that accident victims face. Our team of experienced car accident lawyers in Buffalo is dedicated to fighting for your rights and helping you secure the compensation you deserve. With years of experience handling car accident cases, we know how to navigate the legal system and work with insurance companies to ensure that you are fairly compensated.
If you or a loved one has been involved in a car accident, contact us today for a free consultation. We will review your case, explain your options, and help guide you through the entire process. Let us handle the legal complexities while you focus on recovering from your injuries.