Hit & Run Accidents in Buffalo, NY

Hit & Run Accidents

Being involved in a traffic accident in Buffalo, NY, can be extremely stressful. You may face significant vehicle damage and serious personal injuries. In some cases, the driver responsible for the accident can be held financially accountable for your suffering.

However, if the other driver flees the scene before you can contact the police, you might wonder if you’re fully responsible for handling your own damages after the hit-and-run.

Our Buffalo car accident attorneys are skilled at helping clients secure the compensation they deserve following such incidents. At O’Brien & Ford Buffalo Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers, our team has over 84 years of collective experience in personal injury law.

Reach out to our office today by calling 716-222-2222 to arrange a free consultation with a Buffalo personal injury attorney.

How Our Buffalo Personal Injury Lawyers Can Help If You’ve Been Injured in a Hit-and-Run Accident

Personal injury cases can be complex, especially when the responsible party is unknown, limiting your options for recovering damages. Consulting an experienced Buffalo personal injury lawyer is a prudent step to safeguard your interests.

At O’Brien & Ford Buffalo Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers, we are committed to advocating for the rights of accident victims. We have been widely recognized for the exceptional legal representation we provide our clients.

When you choose our Buffalo car accident lawyers, here’s what we will do for you:

• Conduct an in-depth investigation of the accident’s circumstances
• Collect evidence to demonstrate you were not at fault
• Secure a copy of the accident or police report
• File an insurance claim and handle all communications with the insurer
• Collaborate with your doctor to document your injuries and damages
• Pursue the maximum compensation for your injury claim
• Keep track of all critical deadlines for filings

Our team is here to manage your claim so you can concentrate on recovering. Contact us today to schedule a free initial consultation with one of our car accident lawyers in Buffalo, New York.

Chris O’Brien

Chris O’Brien is a nationally recognized personal injury attorney with over 30 years of experience fighting for accident victims in Western New York. A founding partner at O’Brien & Ford, he has helped recover millions for clients and built a reputation as a top trial lawyer and educator. Chris is a Diplomate of the National College of Advocacy, a member of the Million Dollar Advocates Forum, and was named one of Western New York’s Top Ten Lawyers by Buffalo Business First. He lives in Amherst with his family and their Bernedoodle, Moose.

Years of experience: 33 years
Practice areas: Personal Injury Law, Car Accidents
Location: Buffalo, New York

What Is a Hit-and-Run Accident in New York?

The AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety reports that in the United States, a hit-and-run occurs every minute, with an average of 682,000 incidents annually.

In New York, leaving the scene of an accident before fulfilling certain obligations is a criminal offense. Drivers are legally required to stop, call 911 if anyone is injured/killed, and exchange contact information with other parties involved.

The severity of the criminal charge for fleeing an accident scene depends on the specific circumstances of the case. For example, a driver may face a felony charge if they leave the scene of an accident that results in serious physical injury.

Unfortunately, thousands of hit-and-run accidents each year have tragic consequences for innocent victims.

What Are Common Causes of Hit-and-Run Collisions in Buffalo?

The factors contributing to hit-and-run accidents are similar to those of other traffic incidents. They often stem from human error, such as speeding, distracted driving, and not adhering to traffic laws.

Reasons a driver might flee the scene of an accident include:

• Driving without a valid driver’s license
• Lacking required car insurance coverage
• Operating the vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs
• Having outstanding arrest warrants
• Not realizing they caused an accident

Regardless of the reason for leaving the scene, a hit-and-run driver can be held legally responsible if their actions result in serious injuries or damages to others.

Common Types of Injuries Caused By Hit-and-Run Accidents

The type and severity of a hit-and-run crash determine the resulting injuries.

Common injuries from such accidents can range from mild to catastrophic, and can include:

• Neck and back injuries
• Traumatic brain injuries
• Spinal cord injuries
• Amputations and loss of limbs
• Broken bones and fractures
• Organ damage
• Soft tissue injuries
• Scarring and disfigurement

The cost of treating these injuries can be significant. The injured person may also suffer from a considerable loss of income as well as pain and suffering due to the accident.

Compensation for these damages can be sought through a personal injury claim. In the case of a hit-and-run, however, identifying the liable party can be challenging.

Who Could Be Liable for a Hit-and-Run Accident in Buffalo?

The hit-and-run driver can be held responsible for the damages resulting from the accident, but first, you need to locate the driver to hold them accountable. If the driver remains unidentified and the police are unable to find them, you may still be eligible for compensation by filing an uninsured motorist claim with your insurance company.

Most insurance policies consider hit-and-run accidents as incidents involving an uninsured motorist. Additionally, you can seek compensation for property damage through your collision coverage (if you have it).

However, before you can receive compensation, you must establish that the hit-and-run driver was at fault for the crash. An attorney can assist you in collecting the necessary evidence to support your claim.

You may also have a personal injury case against a third party if they contributed to your accident.

Schedule a Free Consultation With Our Buffalo Hit & Run Accident Lawyers

If you have questions about a hit-and-run accident, feel free to contact our office for a complimentary consultation. Our New York attorneys at O’Brien & Ford Buffalo Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers will review your case and help you understand your legal options.

Your initial consultation is 100% free and you pay nothing unless we’re able to get you a financial award. Call us today to get started.