BUFFALO CAR ACCIDENT LAWYERS

Every case is different. But in all personal injury claims, there are a few elements that we look at to see if you have a case. We check to see if:

• There were damages: Personal injury lawsuits are filed to recover “damages.” These include medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. To qualify for a lawsuit, an injury must have significant associated costs, which vary by state.
• Someone else was at fault: To get compensation from someone else’s insurance company in Buffalo, NY, they must have acted negligently in a way that caused or contributed to your injuries.
• There’s enough insurance coverage: Personal injury lawsuits are usually filed against insurance companies, not individuals. The parties responsible must have enough insurance coverage to fully cover the injured person’s medical expenses or compensate them for their injuries.

If you are unsure if you have a case, contact us. We are here to help residents of Buffalo, NY.

After a car accident in Buffalo, your priority should be safety, medical care, and protecting your rights. Taking the right steps early can make a meaningful difference later.

• Check for injuries and secure the scene: Assess yourself and any passengers for injuries. If anyone is hurt, call 911 right away. If it’s safe to do so, move vehicles out of traffic. If not, turn on hazard lights to alert other drivers.
• Contact the police: Even in minor crashes, calling the police is important. An officer will document the scene and prepare an accident report, which can be valuable for insurance claims or legal action.
• Exchange information carefully: Share basic details with the other driver, including names, contact information, driver’s license numbers, license plate numbers, and insurance coverage. Be polite, but avoid discussing fault or making statements that could be misunderstood later.
• Document the accident scene: Take photos or videos of vehicle damage, skid marks, traffic signals, road conditions, and any other relevant details. If there are witnesses, collect their contact information and ask if they’re willing to share what they observed.
• Seek medical attention: Even if you feel okay, it’s important to see a medical professional. Some injuries don’t show symptoms right away, and medical records help document your condition after the crash.
• Notify your insurance company: Report the accident to your insurer as soon as possible. Stick to the facts and avoid admitting fault.
• Speak with a car accident lawyer: If you were injured or the damage is significant, contacting a car accident lawyer at Morgan & Morgan in Buffalo can help protect your rights and guide you through the claims process.

What you do in the moments after a crash matters, and taking these steps can help reduce stress and protect you down the road.

Every state sets legal deadlines for filing car accident injury claims, known as statutes of limitations. These deadlines determine how long you have to take legal action after a crash. If a claim is not filed within the required window, the right to pursue compensation may be lost.

Some injuries or forms of damage are not immediately obvious. In certain situations, the law allows the filing deadline to begin when an injury is discovered, or reasonably should have been found, rather than on the day of the accident. This can be especially relevant in cases involving internal injuries or conditions that develop over time.

Getting medical care as soon as possible after a car accident is important, even if your injuries don’t seem serious right away. A complete medical evaluation helps document your condition and may reveal injuries that aren’t immediately apparent. In some states, prompt medical records are also required to access certain insurance benefits.

Taking action early can also strengthen a potential claim. Evidence can be lost, video footage may be erased, and witness memories can fade over time. Acting quickly helps preserve the details needed to support your case.

Because filing deadlines and possible exceptions can be complex, speaking with a Buffalo car accident lawyer soon after an accident can help protect your rights. An attorney can explain how the law applies to your situation and ensure any claim is handled within the appropriate time limits.

The time it takes to resolve a car accident lawsuit can vary widely depending on several factors, including the case's complexity, the severity of injuries, and the parties' willingness to settle.

After the accident, your lawyer in Buffalo will begin investigating the case, gathering evidence, and calculating damages. Once this is complete, they will file a claim with the insurance company or a lawsuit in court. Depending on the case's complexity, this initial phase can take several weeks to months.

Many car accident cases are resolved through settlement negotiations without going to court. Settlement discussions can begin shortly after the claim is filed and may take several months to resolve. The timeline depends on the willingness of both parties to reach an agreement and the complexity of the damages involved.

Choosing the right legal team in Buffalo can have a meaningful impact on how your case unfolds. With more than 35 years of experience handling car accident claims, our attorneys understand state and federal traffic laws, insurance practices, and what it takes to build a compelling case from the ground up.

When you work with Morgan & Morgan in Buffalo, you’re backed by more than a single attorney. Your case is supported by a full legal team that may include paralegals, investigators, and medical professionals, each playing a role in developing strong evidence and presenting your claim clearly and effectively.

There’s also no added financial pressure. Morgan & Morgan works on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing upfront and no legal fees unless compensation is recovered. That’s the Fee Is Free™ promise: you only pay if we win.

As the nation’s largest personal injury law firm, Morgan & Morgan brings substantial resources and a reputation recognized across the country. With more than $30 billion recovered for clients, choosing Morgan & Morgan in Buffalo sends a clear message that you’re serious about protecting your rights and pursuing accountability.

You don’t have to face this challenging time alone. At Morgan & Morgan, we are committed to helping car accident victims in Buffalo navigate the complexities of their claims and achieve the justice and compensation they deserve. Remember, our services are free unless we win your case, and we’re here to fight for you every step of the way.

If you’ve been injured in a car accident in Buffalo, don’t delay. Fill out our free case evaluation form today to learn how Morgan & Morgan can help you take the first step toward recovery and justice.

Morgan & Morgan represents clients in Buffalo on a contingency fee basis, often referred to as a “no win, no fee” arrangement. This means there are no upfront costs to hire a lawyer or begin a car accident claim.

Under this arrangement, you do not pay attorney’s fees unless compensation is recovered through a settlement or court verdict. If the case is not successful, you owe nothing for legal services.

This fee structure is designed to make legal representation accessible after a car accident, allowing injured individuals to pursue accountability without taking on additional financial stress.

If your lawyer wins the case, their fee is typically a percentage of your compensation. The specific percentage may vary depending on the complexity of the case and the amount of work involved.

The “no win, no fee” arrangement aligns the lawyer's interests with yours, as they only get paid if you win. This strongly incentivizes your lawyer to work diligently on your behalf and seek the maximum possible compensation for your case.

At Morgan & Morgan, we believe justice should be accessible to all, so we operate on this same contingency fee system and have made it our motto that the Fee Is Free™; you only pay if we get you compensated.

If you’ve been injured in a car accident in Buffalo, you may be entitled to various types of compensation, depending on the specifics of your case.

• Medical Expenses: This category of compensation addresses the full cost of medical care tied to your injuries, including past, current, and anticipated treatment. It may cover hospital stays, physician visits, surgical procedures, prescription medications, physical therapy, and required medical devices. If ongoing or future care is necessary, those projected expenses are also considered.
• Lost Wages: If your injury has led to missed work, you may be entitled to compensation for lost wages. This includes income already lost and potential future earnings if your injury impacts your ability to work. For permanent disabilities, this may also cover compensation for diminished earning capacity.
• Pain and Suffering: Car accident injuries can cause significant physical pain and emotional distress. Compensation for pain and suffering is intended to address the non-economic impact of your injuries, such as chronic pain, anxiety, depression, and the overall decrease in your quality of life.
• Emotional Distress: Severe accidents can lead to emotional trauma, including PTSD, anxiety, and depression. Compensation for emotional distress aims to provide financial relief for the psychological impact of the accident.
• Disability and Disfigurement: If a crash causes permanent disability or lasting disfigurement, such as the loss of a limb or significant scarring, additional compensation may be available to reflect the long-term and life-altering effects of those injuries.
• Loss of Consortium: If your injuries have affected your relationship with your spouse or family, you may be entitled to compensation for loss of consortium. This can cover the loss of companionship, affection, and support resulting from your injury.
• Punitive Damages: In certain cases, when the at-fault party’s behavior was especially reckless or intentional, punitive damages may be available. These damages are designed to punish the wrongdoer and discourage similar conduct in the future.
• Property Damage: You can also seek compensation for any damage to your vehicle or other personal property. This includes repair or replacement costs and any rental car expenses while your vehicle is being repaired.

Every car accident case in Buffalo is different, and the compensation available depends on the nature of your injuries, how they affect your daily life, and the specific circumstances of the crash. A Morgan & Morgan attorney in Buffalo, NY, can evaluate the full scope of your damages and advocate for compensation that reflects what you’ve experienced.

After a minor car accident, hiring a lawyer may not seem necessary. However, even low-impact crashes can create complications that aren’t immediately obvious, especially when insurance companies become involved.

Insurers often move quickly in smaller claims, sometimes offering early settlements that fail to reflect the full scope of medical costs, lost income, or other damages. A Buffalo car accident lawyer can review any offer, explain what it truly covers, and negotiate for compensation that accounts for both current and future losses.

It’s also common for injuries to appear days or even weeks after a crash. Conditions such as whiplash, concussions, or soft tissue injuries may not cause symptoms right away. Without legal guidance, injured drivers may accept a settlement before the full impact of their injuries is known. An attorney can help ensure potential ongoing treatment and related costs are not overlooked.

At Morgan & Morgan in Buffalo, our trial-ready attorneys and established reputation make it clear that unfair or rushed settlement offers won’t be accepted. We approach every case with a focus on protecting our clients’ interests, even when an accident initially appears minor.

While some crashes may seem manageable at first, having an experienced car accident lawyer in Buffalo can help you avoid costly mistakes and pursue compensation that truly reflects the impact of the accident.

No. Consultations at Morgan & Morgan are completely free. We believe everyone deserves access to legal advice, regardless of their financial situation. Hiring one of our car crash lawyers in Buffalo is easy, and you can get started in minutes with a free case evaluation on our site or by phone.

When you hire Morgan & Morgan in Buffalo, NY, you don’t just hire a lawyer; you hire the largest personal injury law firm in the country with an army of over 1,000 lawyers and offices in all 50 states and Washington, D.C. Your case will be handled by a dedicated team of professionals, including personal injury lawyers, paralegals, and support staff. You will be assigned a care team that includes a primary attorney overseeing your case and ensuring you receive personalized attention throughout the process.

After your initial consultation in Buffalo, your legal team will set up regular check-ins to discuss your case, share updates, and help you prepare for what comes next. We prioritize clear communication so you always know where things stand.

Depending on your needs and availability, meetings can take place in person, over the phone, or virtually, making it easier to stay involved in your case throughout the process.

There is no single “average” settlement amount for car accident claims, as outcomes vary based on several factors, including the nature of the injuries, the extent of property damage, and the circumstances of the crash.

One of the most significant factors is the severity of the injuries involved. Cases with minor injuries, such as bruising or whiplash, typically result in lower settlement values, while serious injuries, such as spinal cord damage, traumatic brain injuries, or multiple fractures, often lead to substantially higher compensation.

Medical expenses also play a major role in settlement calculations. This includes the cost of emergency care, surgeries, hospital stays, physical therapy, and any ongoing or future treatment. In general, higher medical costs are reflected in higher potential settlement values.

Establishing fault is a critical part of pursuing compensation after a car accident. Doing so requires gathering and presenting evidence that shows the other party acted negligently or caused the crash.

In many cases, a police officer responds to the scene and prepares an accident report. This report often includes observations, statements from drivers and witnesses, and sometimes an initial assessment of how the crash occurred. While a police report is not conclusive on its own, it can be strong supporting evidence.

Eyewitness testimony can also play an important role. People who saw the accident happen may provide accounts that support your version of events and help clarify disputed details.

Photos and videos taken at the scene can be especially valuable. Images of vehicle damage, skid marks, traffic signals, road conditions, and surrounding areas can help reconstruct how the accident occurred and demonstrate contributing factors.

Fault may also be shown through traffic violations. If the other driver was cited for speeding, running a red light, failing to yield, or another violation, that citation can help establish responsibility for the crash.

In more complex cases, accident reconstruction experts may be brought in to analyze physical evidence, vehicle damage, and crash dynamics. Their findings can help explain how the collision happened and identify the party at fault.

Statements made by the other driver can also matter. If the at-fault driver admits responsibility at the scene or later, that admission may be used as evidence. It’s equally important to be cautious with your own statements, as they can be interpreted or used against you.

Finally, your own account of the accident is an important piece of the puzzle. Clearly explaining what you observed, heard, and experienced helps establish a consistent and credible narrative.

Proving fault often requires a comprehensive approach to evidence collection. A Morgan & Morgan attorney in Buffalo can help gather, evaluate, and present the evidence needed to demonstrate liability and build a strong car accident claim.

Some states, including New York, allow you to recover compensation if you were partially at fault for a car accident, as long as your share of fault does not exceed 51%. Under the modified comparative negligence rule, you can recover damages if you are 50% or less at fault, but not if you are 51% or more at fault.

The court or insurance company determines fault percentages during a car accident case. For example, if you are awarded $100,000 in damages but found 20% at fault, your compensation would be reduced by 20%, leaving you with $80,000.

Insurance companies often attempt to minimize their payouts by arguing that you were primarily responsible. An experienced attorney in Buffalo can help you challenge these claims and negotiate a fair settlement.

It’s essential to gather evidence, such as police reports, witness statements, photos, and videos of the accident scene. An attorney at Morgan & Morgan in Buffalo can assist in presenting this evidence effectively and ensuring your fault is assessed fairly.

Acting quickly and consulting with a local attorney ensures you protect your rights and secure the compensation you deserve, even if you share partial fault.

If you’re involved in a car accident in Buffalo with an uninsured or underinsured driver, it can complicate the process of recovering compensation for your damages. However, there are several avenues you can pursue to ensure that you are not left bearing the financial burden.

If you have uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage as part of your auto insurance policy in New York, this coverage can step in to cover your damages when the at-fault driver lacks sufficient insurance. UM coverage pays for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages you would have otherwise sought from the other driver’s insurance. UIM coverage applies when the at-fault driver’s insurance is insufficient to cover the full extent of your losses.

Navigating a claim involving an uninsured or underinsured driver can be complex. A Morgan & Morgan car accident lawyer in Buffalo, NY, can help you explore all available options, negotiate with your insurance company, and determine the best strategy for securing the compensation you need.

Car accidents involving rideshare drivers (such as Uber or Lyft) or delivery drivers (including those working for services like DoorDash or Amazon) often come with added legal complexities.

As with any crash, your first priority should be your safety and well-being. Check yourself and others for injuries, and call 911 if medical assistance is needed. If you are hurt, seek medical care as soon as possible.

At the scene, gather as much information as you can. This includes the driver’s name, contact details, and vehicle information. If the driver was working at the time of the accident, be sure to note the rideshare or delivery company involved and any details related to the driver’s work status. If there are witnesses, collect their contact information as well.

Document the scene by taking photos or videos of vehicle damage, road conditions, and any visible injuries. This evidence can be critical when pursuing a claim with the appropriate insurance company in Buffalo, NY.

Notify the rideshare or delivery company about the accident. Both Uber and Lyft, for example, have protocols for handling accidents involving their drivers. The company may have its own insurance policy covering the driver while on the job.

File a police report, as this will be an important document for your insurance claim or lawsuit. Be sure to mention if the driver was working for a rideshare or delivery service at the time of the accident.

Inform your insurance company about the accident. Depending on the situation, your insurance may be involved in covering some of the damages.

Accidents involving rideshare or delivery drivers in Buffalo, NY, can involve multiple insurance policies, including the driver’s personal insurance, the company’s insurance, and potentially your own insurance. An experienced attorney at Morgan & Morgan in Buffalo can help you navigate this complex landscape, determine which policies apply, and pursue the compensation you deserve.

Rideshare and delivery companies often have large insurance policies to cover accidents involving their drivers, but getting the compensation you’re entitled to can be challenging. An attorney in Buffalo, NY, can advocate on your behalf, negotiate with the insurance companies, and, if necessary, take your case to court to protect your rights.

Being involved in a hit-and-run accident in Buffalo can be a terrifying experience. If the other driver leaves the scene, staying calm and taking specific steps to protect your rights and improve your chances of recovering compensation is important.

First, check yourself and any passengers for injuries. If anyone is injured, call 911 immediately for medical assistance. Your safety and health should always be the top priority.

If possible, try to remember and document as much information about the fleeing vehicle as you can, such as the make, model, color, and license plate number. Also, note the direction in which the vehicle fled.

Seek out witnesses who may have seen the accident. Their statements could be crucial in identifying the hit-and-run driver and supporting your claim. Ask for their contact information, as they may be able to provide a statement to the police or your attorney.

Contact the police as soon as possible to report the hit-and-run in Buffalo. Provide them with all the details you gathered. A police report will be essential for your insurance claim and any potential legal action.

Even if you don’t feel injured, seeing a doctor as soon as possible is important. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent but could have long-term effects. Medical documentation will also be vital for your claim.

Next, report the accident to your insurance company promptly. Depending on your policy, you may have coverage options such as uninsured motorist coverage, which can help pay for your damages when the at-fault driver is unknown.

Hit-and-run accidents often present unique challenges, particularly when the driver responsible cannot be identified. An experienced car accident attorney at Morgan & Morgan in Buffalo, NY, can help guide you through the legal process, communicate with your insurance company, and identify all potential sources of compensation.

Even if the at-fault driver is never located, compensation may still be available through your own insurance coverage or other legal avenues. A Buffalo attorney can review the details of your case, explain your options, and work to recover damages tied to your injuries and losses.

Every time we hit the road, we embark on a journey that demands caution, responsibility, and awareness. Despite advancements in vehicle safety, car crashes remain an unfortunate reality, often resulting from a variety of factors. At Morgan & Morgan, we believe knowledge is an important tool for prevention.

• Distracted Driving: In an era dominated by technology, distracted driving has become a pervasive issue. Whether texting, talking on the phone, or engaging with in-car entertainment systems, diverted attention can lead to devastating consequences.
• Speeding: Exceeding speed limits poses a significant risk on the road. Speeding reduces reaction time and increases the severity of accidents, making it a leading contributor to collisions.
• Impaired Driving: Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs remains a major cause of accidents. Impaired judgment and coordination significantly elevate the likelihood of crashes with severe outcomes.
• Reckless Driving: Aggressive and reckless driving behaviors, such as tailgating, weaving between lanes, and disregarding traffic signals, create hazardous conditions and contribute to many serious accidents.
• Weather Conditions: Adverse weather, from rain and snow to fog and ice, amplifies driving challenges. Reduced visibility and slippery roads make accidents more probable during inclement weather.
• Running Red Lights and Stop Signs: Disregarding traffic signals and signs puts everyone on the road at risk. Drivers who ignore these critical rules frequently cause collisions at intersections.
• Driver Fatigue: Tired and drowsy driving impairs cognitive functions and reaction times. Fatigue-related accidents are more prevalent than one might think, especially during long-distance travel and late-night driving.

Sometimes, however, other negligent drivers can introduce more risks on the road, regardless of how carefully you drive. If you're involved in a car wreck in Buffalo, NY, that wasn’t your fault, Morgan & Morgan's dedicated team is here to help you fight for the justice and compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a free, no-obligation case evaluation.

A car accident lawyer from Morgan & Morgan in Buffalo, NY, can play a critical role in helping you move forward after a crash. From navigating complex legal issues to advocating for fair compensation, experienced legal guidance can make a meaningful difference in how your case unfolds.

Car accident laws vary by state and can be difficult to navigate without support. With a strong presence in Buffalo, Morgan & Morgan attorneys understand the local laws and insurance regulations that apply to your case. Your lawyer can explain your rights, walk you through your options, and help you make informed decisions at every stage of the process.