What to Do After a Serious Car Accident in Buffalo, NY
If you are seriously injured in a car accident in Buffalo or Western New York, it is important to act quickly. Taking the right steps can protect your health and help you recover compensation for your injuries.
Below are important steps to follow after a car crash in Buffalo, NY or the surrounding Western New York area.
1. Check for Injuries After a Buffalo Car Accident
Your safety comes first. Check yourself and everyone in your car for injuries. If moving could make your injuries worse, stay where you are. Do not get out of the vehicle unless it is safe.
2. Call the Police in Buffalo or Western New York
Always call the police after a car accident, even if the crash seems minor. A Buffalo or Western New York police report is very important for your case.
You may be in shock and not feel pain right away. When officers arrive, tell them what happened, but do not admit fault.
3. Exchange Information With the Other Driver
After a car accident in Buffalo or Western New York, you must exchange information with the other driver. Make sure to get:
License plate number
Make and model of the vehicle
Insurance information
If the other driver leaves the scene, try to get the license plate number. This can help identify the driver and protect your rights.
4. Document the Car Accident Scene
Photos and videos can strongly support a Buffalo car accident claim. If you can, take pictures of:
Injuries like cuts, burns, or bruises
Seatbelt marks or airbag burns
Damage to all vehicles
Broken items inside the car
In New York State, you must meet a “serious injury” rule to recover damages. One category includes significant disfigurement, such as permanent scars. Photos can help show how serious your injuries are.
5. Seek Medical Care in Buffalo or Western New York
If you are injured, seek medical care right away. This helps your health and your case.
You may not feel pain right away after a car crash. Try to visit an emergency room or urgent care within one day. Then follow up with your primary care doctor. You may also need treatment from specialists in Buffalo or Western New York, such as orthopedic doctors or pain management providers.
6. Contact Your New York No-Fault Insurance Company
After a car accident in Buffalo or Western New York, you must file a New York No-Fault insurance application within 30 days.
No-Fault insurance helps pay for:
Medical bills
Lost wages
New York requires at least $50,000 in No-Fault coverage. If you miss the deadline, your insurance company may deny your claim.
7. Contact a Buffalo Car Accident Lawyer
A Buffalo car accident lawyer can help protect your rights after a crash. Vinal & Vinal, P.C., based in Buffalo, NY, helps clients throughout Western New York with:
No-Fault insurance claims
Lost wage claims
Personal injury lawsuits
Hiring a lawyer early can help make sure the insurance company treats you fairly.
Get Help From a Buffalo, NY Car Accident Law Firm
A serious car accident can turn your life upside down. Vinal & Vinal, P.C. has over 30 years of experience helping injured people in Buffalo and Western New York. We handle cases from early settlements through full trials and are not afraid to take on insurance companies.
Let us fight for you and your family.
Call Vinal & Vinal, P.C. today at (716) 832-5900 for a free consultation about your Buffalo or Western New York car accident case.