Buffalo Car Accident Lawyer
Buffalo Car Accident Lawyer
Buffalo Car Accident Lawyer
Welcome to The Buffalo Injury Law Firm’s comprehensive guide on car accidents. As your trusted Buffalo car accident lawyer, we are here to provide you with vital information to assist you or your loved ones following a car crash in Buffalo, New York. Our mission is to serve as your advocate in seeking justice and compensation. We understand the overwhelming nature of post-accident situations and are committed to safeguarding your rights and securing fair compensation for your family, whether you decide to retain an attorney or not.
How a Buffalo Car Accident Lawyer Helps
When you or a loved one has been involved in a car accident, the aftermath can be overwhelming. Vehicle damage, emergency room bills, insurance companies, police reports, and piles of paperwork. A Buffalo car accident lawyer is your essential advocate during these challenging times, providing guidance and support to navigate the complexities of the legal system. They take the heavy lift in filing the necessary paperwork within all the deadlines, investigating the crash, collecting crucial evidence, and assessing the full extent of your injuries, ensuring you receive fair compensation for your injuries. Moreover, skilled injury attorneys know the value of your case to adeptly negotiate with insurance companies to safeguard your rights and achieve the best possible outcome for your case.
Common Causes of Car Accidents in Buffalo, New York
In 2021, the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles reported that distracted driving or driver inattention was the leading cause of car accidents resulting in injuries. Primary distractions include cellphone use, texting, radio, children, eating, and mind wandering. Distracted driving is followed by:
- Failure to yield the right of way
- Following too closely
- Unsafe speed
- Improper lane change
- Disregarding a traffic control device
- Alcohol
Common Types of Car Accidents in Buffalo
Car accidents are frequent occurrences in Buffalo, New York. Defensive driving and adherence to traffic rules are crucial to preventing accidents. Here are the most common types of car crashes:
Rear-End Collisions
Rear-end collisions are prevalent in Buffalo, often occurring at traffic lights or during slowed or stopped traffic. These accidents can result in whiplash injuries and vehicle damage.
T-Bone Accidents
T-bone accidents happen at intersections when one driver fails to yield the right of way or runs a red light. These accidents can cause severe injuries, especially if the impact is on the driver's side.
Head-On Collisions
Head-on collisions are the most severe type of car accident, often caused by a driver crossing the center line or driving the wrong way. They frequently result in serious injuries or fatalities.
Sideswipe Collisions
Sideswipe collisions occur when two vehicles traveling in the same direction make contact, often due to a failure to check blind spots. While less severe, they can lead to property damage and injuries.
Multi-Vehicle Pileups
Multi-vehicle pileups occur on highways or during heavy traffic when a driver fails to slow down or stop in time. These accidents can cause severe injuries and property damage.
If you're in a car accident, prioritize safety, seek medical attention immediately, and contact the Buffalo Injury Law Firm for legal assistance.
What to Do After a Car Accident?
Car accidents can be traumatic, so knowing what to do afterward is essential. Always take the following steps, and teach them to your children, family, and friends:
- Check for injuries and call 911 if anyone is hurt.
- Move your car to a safe location if possible.
- Exchange information with the other driver.
- Document the scene with pictures.
- Seek medical attention, even if you feel fine.
- Contact an attorney if you're injured.
- Notify your insurance company only after consulting your lawyer.
Remember, the aftermath can be overwhelming, but these steps protect your safety and legal rights.
Who Pays for Vehicle Damage?
Property damage in New York car accidents is usually covered by the at-fault driver's insurance. But if you have a specific type of coverage on your own policy called "collision coverage," you can file the property damage with your own insurance company, and this should get you paid faster. This type of coverage is not required. Unfortunately, many people don't have collision coverage because they think they have "full coverage." If you do, your insurance company will pay to get your car fixed faster, especially if the at-fault driver's insurance company is dragging their feet.
Common Injuries Caused by Car Accidents
Car accidents can result in a variety of orthopedic and spine injuries. The most common diagnoses we see are:
- Whiplash
- Fractures
- Head and Brain Injuries
- Spinal Cord Injuries
- Neck and Back Injuries
- Herniated Discs
- Shoulder Injuries
- Knee Injuries
- Burns
- Psychological Trauma
Seeking appropriate medical attention and legal representation is vital after a car accident.
Common Medical Tests After a Car Crash
Medical tests are critical for understanding, treating, and documenting your injuries after a car accident. The following tests are the most commonly used to help patients injured in a car accident:
- X-rays
- Computed Tomography (CT) Scan
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
- Diffusion Tensor Imaging (DTI) Testing
- Ultrasound
- Cognitive and Neuropsychological Tests
- Orthopedic Exams
- EMG (Electromyography)
- Digital Motion X-ray
Do You Need a Buffalo Car Accident Lawyer?
Not everyone needs an attorney after a car accident. However, if you have serious or permanent injuries, it's advisable to hire a lawyer. They ensure fair compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. An attorney also navigates complex cases, disputes, and inadequate settlements.
How Much Does a Buffalo Car Accident Lawyer Cost?
Buffalo car accident lawyers work on a contingency fee basis. In New York, the contingency fee is 33 1/3 percent of the total recovery. If the law firm takes the case, the may also advance additional costs and expenses (investigation, medical records, experts) usually repaid by the client to the law firm if there's a settlement. Discuss fees and arrangements with your attorney.
