Calling a personal injury lawyer is not the first thing you should do following a car accident in Buffalo or elsewhere in Western New York. After a motor vehicle accident, the most important thing to do is check on the safety of both those involved in the collision and other drivers on the road. Contacting a personal injury attorney — like Steve Boyd — can wait until after traffic safety is assured for everyone involved in a car crash.
New York State law and City of Buffalo ordinances require any driver involved in a car accident to stop at the scene of an accident, even if a personal injury has not occurred. You should not move your car unless leaving it where it is can create a hazard for other drivers. If you have suffered a personal injury, in most cases you should remain where you are. If you are not injured but other people are, you should immediately dial 911 and request an ambulance.
Everyone who may be injured should head to the hospital or local doctor’s office immediately. Motor vehicle crashes can often result in broken bones, such as broken ribs, or traumatic brain injuries. Checking any head injuries and other accident injuries is always the best course of action to take. This way, you know that you and everyone involved in the collision is well, and no long-term problems will arise without warning.
New York State Law for Motor Vehicle Accidents
New York State, like most places in the United States, requires all drivers in auto accidents to exchange their names and addresses, along with the names and identification numbers of their insurance company. Aside from exchanging this information, it is usually best not to have any discussion with the other driver. Wait for the police to arrive and tell them how the motor vehicle accident occurred. You should note the law enforcement agency involved and the officer’s name. This may make it easier for a personal injury lawyer or accident attorneys to obtain a copy of police records.
Contact Your Insurance Company ASAP After the Accident
You or your attorney also should contact your insurance company shortly after the accident. If the insurance company is not notified of an accident in a timely fashion, they may deny your claim, and leave the economic costs of the accident to you.
If you have been involved in a motor vehicle accident and have any questions about how to proceed, please feel free to call us at 585-600-0000 or 716-600-0000 for a free consultation.