First, New York State law and Buffalo ordinances require that any driver involved in a car accident stop at the scene even if a personal injury has not occurred. You should not move your car unless leaving it where it is creates a hazard for other drivers. At this point making sure everyone is safe, including others using the road, is the most important step you can take.
If you have suffered a personal injury, in most cases you should remain where you are and wait for help. If you are not injured but other people are, you should immediately dial 911 and request an ambulance. Unless you have medical training, you should not attempt to treat any injured person yourself or move them unless they are in immediate danger.
Following a motor vehicle accident, New York State requires all drivers to exchange their names and addresses, along with the names and identification numbers of their insurance company. If possible, you should ask to see the other driver’s license, registration and insurance card and copy down all of this information.
Aside from exchanging this required information with the other driver, it is best not to have any discussion with him or her. Do not get into a discussion with them about who caused the accident. Wait for the police to arrive and tell the police officer your recall of how the accident occurred.
When speaking to the police, you should find out his or her name, badge number and department or precinct. It will make it easier for you or your personal injury lawyer to obtain a copy of any police reports at a later date.
Following the accident, you should contact your insurance company immediately. If the insurance company is not notified of an accident in a timely fashion, they may deny your claim.
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