What to Do If You’re Involved in a DWI/DUI Accident in Buffalo

Being involved in a DWI/DUI accident can be a frightening and overwhelming experience. You may be feeling a mix of emotions, including confusion, fear, and even guilt. These are all natural reactions when dealing with such a serious incident. If you’ve found yourself in this situation, it’s important to understand that you don’t have to face it alone. Our team at Friedman & Ranzenhofer, PC is here to guide you through the legal process and help you achieve the best possible outcome for your case. We understand the stress you’re under, and we’re ready to support you every step of the way. Let’s break down what to do after being involved in a DWI/DUI accident, so you can handle the situation with confidence and clarity.

Stay Calm and Assess the Situation

The first thing to remember after any accident is to stay calm. It can be easy to panic, especially if alcohol or drugs are involved, but keeping your composure is essential. Take a deep breath and check yourself and the other people involved for any injuries. If anyone is injured, including yourself or others in the other vehicle, it is crucial to call 911 immediately. Even if you think the injuries are minor, it’s better to be safe and have medical professionals assess the situation.

While you wait for emergency personnel to arrive, make sure to move to a safe location if possible. If you are able to, pull over to the side of the road and turn on your hazard lights. It is important to avoid further accidents, especially if you are in the middle of the road.

Cooperate with Authorities

Once the police arrive, you will be asked to provide your driver’s license, registration, and insurance information. Cooperating with law enforcement is important, but you also have the right to remain silent. If you are asked if you’ve been drinking or using drugs, it’s critical to be honest. However, you are not required to answer questions that may incriminate you. You can politely decline to answer specific questions and instead request to speak with an attorney.

Keep in mind that law enforcement will likely ask you to take a breathalyzer test to check your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) or to submit to a drug test. In New York, refusing to take a chemical test can result in penalties such as license suspension and additional charges. It’s important to understand the consequences of refusing the test, but also your right to legal representation during questioning.

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Document the Scene

As soon as you are able to do so safely, take the time to document the scene of the accident. This includes taking pictures of the damage to both vehicles, the surrounding area, and any relevant details such as road signs or weather conditions. Collect contact information from any witnesses, as their testimony can be invaluable later on. If there are security cameras in the area, make a note of them, as footage may be able to support your case.

If you are too injured or shaken up to take pictures or gather information, ask someone else at the scene to assist. Documenting the scene will provide crucial evidence that can be used in your defense, especially if your case goes to court.

Seek Medical Attention

Even if you do not feel immediately injured, it’s important to see a doctor after a DWI/DUI accident. Some injuries, such as whiplash or concussions, may not be immediately noticeable, but they can still be serious. Having a medical professional examine you will not only ensure your health is taken care of but also help to create a record of any injuries you may have sustained during the accident. This medical documentation can be critical in supporting your case later on.

In the context of a DWI/DUI accident, having a full medical evaluation is particularly important because it can also establish the timeline of events. If alcohol or drugs were involved, it will help to show that your injuries were not a result of reckless behavior, but instead part of the unfortunate circumstances of the accident.

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Contact an Attorney Right Away

Dealing with the aftermath of a DWI/DUI accident can be complicated, and it’s important to have legal guidance from the start. A qualified attorney can help you navigate the complex legal system and work toward getting the best possible outcome for your case. In situations where DWI/DUI charges are involved, the consequences can be severe. From license suspension to fines, and even possible jail time, the impact of these charges can be far-reaching. That’s why it’s essential to have an attorney who understands the legal process and knows how to handle cases like yours.

At Friedman & Ranzenhofer, PC, we understand how important it is to protect your rights and fight for the best possible result. Whether you are facing charges or are trying to navigate insurance claims and the aftermath of the accident, we can help guide you through the process. We are here to ensure you understand every step and work towards reducing the impact of the accident on your life.

Understand Your Legal Options

Once you’ve consulted with an attorney, it’s important to fully understand your legal options. Your lawyer will explain the potential consequences of the DWI/DUI charges and help you understand the best strategies for defending your case. Depending on the circumstances, there may be opportunities to have the charges reduced or dismissed. In some cases, it may be possible to negotiate a plea deal that minimizes the penalties. An attorney can also help you deal with your insurance company, making sure that you are treated fairly during the claims process.

Every case is different, and there may be factors in your case that could work in your favor. It’s crucial to rely on your attorney’s knowledge and experience to explore all available options and protect your interests. The goal is always to achieve the most favorable outcome, whether that means securing a reduced charge, having your case dismissed, or minimizing penalties.

Prepare for Your Court Hearing

If your case goes to court, it’s important to be prepared. Your attorney will walk you through what to expect during the court process. This includes helping you understand the charges against you, explaining the potential penalties, and preparing you for your day in court. Your attorney will also represent you during hearings and negotiations, fighting for the best possible result for your case.

If you have been arrested for DWI/DUI, there may be an automatic license suspension, but your attorney can help you navigate these situations and explore options for keeping your license or getting it reinstated as quickly as possible. Understanding the court process and your rights will give you peace of mind as you move forward.

Facing a DWI/DUI accident can be a scary and overwhelming experience, but you don’t have to face it alone. With the right legal representation, you can work towards achieving the best possible outcome in your case. At Friedman & Ranzenhofer, PC, we are dedicated to helping you through every step of the process. We understand how challenging it can be, and we are here to offer the support, guidance, and legal expertise you need.

If you are involved in a DWI/DUI accident in Buffalo, don’t hesitate to reach out to us for help. We are committed to giving you the legal representation you need to fight your case and get the best possible result. Contact us today for a consultation.

To learn more about this subject click here: How Previous DWI/DUI Convictions Can Influence Your Current Case in Buffalo

 

 

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Justin Friedman

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