If you’ve been injured in an accident in Buffalo, navigating the legal world of personal injury claims may seem daunting. The process can be long and complicated, but understanding the essential steps can greatly improve your chances of securing a fair and just settlement or verdict. Whether your injury is the result of a car accident, slip and fall, or any other form of negligence, these tips will guide you in the right direction toward a successful personal injury lawsuit in Buffalo.
Robert Friedman
Michael Ranzenhofer
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Justin Friedman
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Seek Medical Attention Immediately 
The first and most important step after any injury is seeking medical attention. Even if your injuries seem minor at first, it’s crucial to visit a doctor right away. Sometimes, injuries like soft tissue damage or internal injuries may not be immediately apparent. Medical documentation from a healthcare professional will be an essential part of your case, as it not only helps you get the treatment you need, but it also creates a record that links your injuries to the incident. This documentation can play a pivotal role in establishing the severity of your injury and its impact on your life.
Document Everything Related to Your Injury
In addition to medical records, documenting everything related to the accident and its aftermath will strengthen your case. Take photographs of the accident scene, your injuries, and any property damage. If possible, obtain witness statements and contact information. Keeping detailed records of medical visits, expenses, and any communication with insurance companies will ensure that you have all the evidence you need to support your claim. These pieces of evidence will help your attorney build a compelling case on your behalf.
Avoid Accepting the First Settlement Offer
One of the most common mistakes injury victims make is accepting the first settlement offer from an insurance company. While it may seem tempting to settle quickly, these initial offers are often much lower than what you are truly entitled to. Insurance companies are looking to close cases as quickly and inexpensively as possible, and they may try to pressure you into accepting a less-than-fair settlement. Before agreeing to anything, consult with a knowledgeable personal injury attorney. They can help assess whether the settlement offer is reasonable or if you should push for more compensation based on your medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Work with an Experienced Personal Injury Lawyer
Hiring an experienced personal injury lawyer is one of the most important decisions you’ll make during your legal journey. Buffalo residents can rely on the expertise of law firms like Friedman & Ranzenhofer, PC, who have a proven track record of handling personal injury cases. An experienced attorney will be familiar with the laws specific to Buffalo and will know how to navigate the complex process of filing claims, negotiating with insurance companies, and litigating if necessary. A skilled lawyer will also ensure that your case is properly valued, taking into account all aspects of your injury, including any long-term effects it may have on your life.
Be Patient Throughout the Process
Personal injury lawsuits can take time. From gathering evidence and medical records to negotiating settlements or going to trial, the entire process can span months or even years. While it can be frustrating to wait, it’s important to remain patient. Rushing the process or accepting a quick settlement can undermine your chances of securing a fair resolution. Trust that your attorney will guide you through the necessary steps and work diligently to achieve the best possible outcome.
Understand the Statute of Limitations
In New York, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury lawsuit is three years from the date of the accident. This means you have a limited window of time in which you can pursue legal action. If you miss this deadline, you may lose your right to seek compensation. It’s crucial to act quickly and consult with a personal injury attorney as soon as possible after the accident. Waiting too long to begin the process could jeopardize your ability to file a lawsuit and receive compensation for your injuries.
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Keep Detailed Records of Medical Expenses and Lost Wages
One of the most significant components of any personal injury claim is the financial impact it has on your life. Be sure to keep detailed records of all medical expenses, including bills for doctor visits, surgeries, physical therapy, medications, and any other treatments related to your injury. Additionally, keep track of any lost wages from time missed at work due to your injuries. This documentation will provide evidence of your financial losses, helping your attorney build a stronger case for compensation. In some cases, you may even be entitled to compensation for future lost wages if your injuries have long-term consequences on your ability to work.
Prepare for the Discovery Phase
Once a personal injury lawsuit is filed, you’ll enter the discovery phase, where both parties exchange information. This includes answering questions under oath, producing documents, and providing depositions. It’s essential to be prepared for this phase by ensuring that all your records, medical documentation, and any other evidence are well-organized and easily accessible. Your attorney will guide you through this process and help you prepare for depositions and interrogatories. Honesty and transparency are key during the discovery process, so make sure to communicate openly with your attorney about the details of the accident and your injuries.
Consider the Long-Term Impact of Your Injury
When pursuing a personal injury lawsuit, it’s important to consider the long-term impact of your injuries. Many people focus on the immediate costs of medical bills and lost wages, but personal injuries can also affect your future. If your injury requires long-term medical treatment, therapy, or rehabilitation, be sure to factor these expenses into your claim. Additionally, if your injury affects your ability to work or perform daily activities, these consequences should be taken into account as well. Your attorney will help you evaluate the full extent of your damages, ensuring that you are compensated for both your immediate and long-term needs.
Don’t Speak to Insurance Adjusters Alone
Insurance companies often have adjusters who are trained to settle claims quickly and at the lowest possible cost. They may contact you shortly after the accident and ask for a statement about what happened. While it’s important to provide basic information, it’s crucial that you don’t give a detailed statement or discuss your case with the insurance adjuster without first consulting your attorney. Insurance adjusters are not on your side—they are working to minimize the amount the insurance company pays out. Let your attorney handle all communication with insurance companies to ensure your rights are protected and that you receive the maximum compensation for your injuries.
Understand the Role of Comparative Negligence in New York
New York operates under a comparative negligence rule, which means that if you are partially at fault for the accident, your compensation may be reduced by the percentage of fault assigned to you. For example, if you are found to be 20% at fault for the accident, your damages will be reduced by 20%. However, as long as you are not more than 50% at fault, you can still recover damages. This is an important aspect of personal injury cases, as some defendants may attempt to argue that you share in the responsibility for the accident. Your attorney will work to prove that the other party was primarily at fault and minimize any potential reduction in your compensation.
Know That Trial May Be Necessary
In some cases, personal injury lawsuits settle before they go to trial. However, not all cases will settle, and sometimes it’s necessary to take your case to court. While a trial can be intimidating, it may be the only way to secure a fair outcome if the defendant is unwilling to negotiate. Your attorney will be well-prepared to represent you in court, presenting your case to a judge or jury and arguing for the compensation you deserve. While trials can take time, your attorney will keep you informed at every step and work to achieve the best possible result for your case.
If you have been injured in an accident in Buffalo, don’t navigate this complex legal process alone. The team at Friedman & Ranzenhofer, PC is here to help. With years of experience handling personal injury cases, we can guide you through every step of your lawsuit, from gathering evidence to negotiating settlements or going to trial. Contact us today for a free consultation and get the experienced legal assistance you need to secure the compensation you deserve.