A car accident can leave you disoriented, frustrated, and unsure of what steps to take next. In the immediate aftermath, it’s easy to make decisions that can negatively affect your ability to recover damages or even protect your legal rights. Whether you’re dealing with a fender bender or a more serious crash in Buffalo, avoiding common post-accident pitfalls is crucial.
Here are five critical mistakes to steer clear of after a car accident in Buffalo—mistakes that buffalo car accident lawyer see all too often.
1.Failing to Call the Police
One of the most common mistakes after a car crash is skipping the call to law enforcement. Even if the accident seems minor, it’s essential to report it. A police report provides an official account of the incident, which can become invaluable during insurance claims and legal proceedings.
Buffalo police officers are trained to document the scene, gather witness information, and identify possible violations. Without this report, it becomes your word against the other party’s, making it harder to prove fault later on.
Tip: Always request a copy of the police report and review it for accuracy. If there are any discrepancies, report them to your attorney.
2.Admitting Fault at the Scene
It may feel natural to say “I’m sorry” after a crash, but avoid any statements that could be construed as admitting fault. Even a casual apology could be used against you later.
New York is a comparative negligence state, which means fault can be shared among multiple parties. Admitting guilt prematurely can severely compromise your claim, even if you’re only partially responsible.
Instead, stick to the facts when speaking with other drivers or the police. Avoid speculating about what happened or who was at fault.
3.Delaying Medical Attention
Many people involved in car accidents underestimate their injuries. Adrenaline can mask symptoms, and some conditions—like whiplash or internal injuries—may not present themselves immediately.
Waiting to seek medical care can not only jeopardize your health but also weaken your legal claim. Insurance adjusters may argue that your injuries weren’t serious or were unrelated to the accident if there’s a delay in treatment.
Tip: Visit a medical professional as soon as possible, even if you feel fine. Be sure to follow up on all recommended treatments and keep thorough records.
4.Not Gathering Evidence
The moments following an accident are the best opportunity to collect evidence. Once the vehicles are moved and witnesses leave, important details can be lost forever.
If you’re able, take photos of the scene from multiple angles, including:
- Vehicle damage
- Skid marks
- Road conditions
- Traffic signs or signals
- Injuries sustained
Also, gather names and contact information of any witnesses. If another driver is involved, exchange insurance and contact details, and take note of their license plate number.
Tip: If you can’t collect this information due to injury, ask a passenger or a bystander for help.
5.Talking to Insurance Adjusters Without Legal Counsel
After a car accident, you might receive a call from the other driver’s insurance company. While they may seem friendly and helpful, remember that their job is to minimize the amount they pay out.
Providing a recorded statement or accepting an early settlement without understanding the full value of your claim can seriously hurt your case. These early offers often do not account for ongoing medical expenses, lost wages, or pain and suffering.
Tip: Politely decline to speak in detail until you’ve consulted a Buffalo car accident lawyer. Let your attorney handle communications to ensure your rights are protected.
Bonus Tip: Ignoring Legal Help
Many people believe they can handle car accident claims on their own. But insurance companies have experienced attorneys and adjusters working to protect their interests—and you should too.
An experienced Buffalo Truck Accident Attorney can help you:
- Understand your rights
- Gather and preserve evidence
- Accurately assess your damages
- Handle negotiations with insurers
- File a lawsuit if necessary
Don’t wait until it’s too late. The sooner you involve an attorney, the better your chances of securing fair compensation.
Understanding New York’s No-Fault Insurance Rule
New York operates under a no-fault insurance system, which means your own insurance company will cover medical bills and lost earnings up to a certain amount, regardless of who caused the accident. However, serious injuries may allow you to step outside the no-fault system and sue the at-fault driver.
Your attorney can help determine if your injury meets the legal threshold to pursue additional damages. Serious injuries may include:
- Bone fractures
- Significant disfigurement
- Permanent limitation of a body organ or member
- Full disability for 90 days or more
Final Thoughts
A car accident can upend your life in an instant. By avoiding these five critical mistakes, you position yourself to receive the medical treatment and financial compensation you deserve. From reporting the accident properly to securing legal representation, each step you take after a crash in Buffalo plays a crucial role in your recovery.
If you’ve been injured in a car accident, don’t leave your future to chance. Contact a knowledgeable Buffalo car accident lawyer who can guide you through the legal process and advocate for your best interests. Because when it comes to protecting your health and your rights, experience matters.
Â