Category: Auto Accidents

Multi-vehicle car accidents are as complex as they are chaotic. With Buffalo, NY, witnessing its fair share of these harrowing incidents, the aftermath leaves many puzzled about the next steps, especially when it comes to understanding liability. Navigating the murky waters of claims and settlements requires a nuanced understanding of the law, a task well-suited for the experienced personal injury attorneys at Brown Chiari LLP.

The Complexity of Multi-Vehicle Accidents

At its core, a multi-vehicle accident involves more than two vehicles, often resulting in a chain reaction where determining the initial cause can be complicated. Buffalo’s notorious winter weather, bustling traffic, and the ever-present distraction of technology contribute to these complex scenarios. Identifying the party at fault—or parties, as it often happens—requires a detailed investigation.

What Constitutes a Multi-Vehicle Accident?

A multi-vehicle accident, also known as a chain-reaction crash or pile-up, involves three or more vehicles. These accidents can occur under a variety of circumstances but share the common feature of multiple collisions involving several parties.

Common Causes of Multi-Vehicle Accidents in Buffalo, NY

Several factors contribute to the occurrence of multi-vehicle accidents in Buffalo:

• Weather Conditions: Buffalo’s harsh winters bring snow and ice, creating slippery road conditions that can trigger accidents.
• Heavy Traffic: Congested roads increase the likelihood of collisions as drivers have less space to maneuver.
• Distracted Driving: With the rise of smartphones, distracted driving has become a major cause of accidents, leading to decreased reaction times and increased collision rates.

 

Understanding these causes is crucial in comprehending the complexity of multi-vehicle accidents and the challenges they present.

Understanding New York’s Approach to Liability

New York follows a comparative fault system when determining liability in car accidents. Under this system, each party involved in an accident can be assigned a percentage of fault based on their contribution to the incident.

Pure Comparative Negligence

New York adheres to the principle of “pure comparative negligence.” This means that an individual’s compensation for damages is reduced by their degree of fault. For example, if a driver is found to be 30% at fault, their compensation will be reduced by 30%. This approach ensures that even partially at-fault parties can still recover damages, promoting fairness in settlements.

 

Determining Fault in Multi-Vehicle Accidents

Establishing liability in these accidents relies heavily on police reports, eyewitness accounts, and any available traffic camera footage. In many cases, accident reconstruction experts are brought in to provide a clearer picture of what transpired. However, apportioning fault among the involved parties remains a significant challenge.

Role of Evidence

Establishing fault in multi-vehicle accidents requires careful analysis of various forms of evidence:

• Police Reports: Law enforcement officers document the scene, gather witness statements, and compile reports that provide initial insights into the accident.
• Eyewitness Testimony: Statements from witnesses can offer valuable perspectives on how the accident unfolded.
• Traffic Camera Footage: Video evidence from traffic cameras can capture the sequence of events, helping to clarify fault.

Accident Reconstruction Experts

In complex multi-vehicle accidents, accident reconstruction experts may be called upon to analyze evidence and reconstruct the events leading to the collision. Their expertise can be instrumental in accurately determining liability.

Apportioning Fault

One of the significant challenges in multi-vehicle accidents is apportioning fault among multiple parties. This process involves intricate legal and factual analyses to ensure each party’s responsibility is accurately assessed.

Common Challenges in Multi-Vehicle Accident Claims

One of the main hurdles in multi-vehicle accident claims is dealing with several insurance companies simultaneously, each protecting its client’s interests. The situation is further complicated by issues such as limited liability insurance coverage, making it difficult for victims to receive full compensation. Overcoming these obstacles often necessitates the involvement of adept personal injury attorneys.

Dealing with Multiple Insurance Companies

Handling claims involving multiple insurance companies can be daunting. Each insurer will conduct its investigation, and conflicting interests can arise, complicating the settlement process.

Limited Liability Insurance Coverage

New York’s minimum liability insurance requirements may be insufficient to cover all damages in a severe multi-vehicle accident. Claimants may face difficulties securing adequate compensation if multiple parties share limited coverage.

Overcoming Challenges

To navigate these challenges, having skilled personal injury attorneys like those at Brown Chiari LLP is crucial. They employ strategies such as negotiating with insurance companies, leveraging their legal knowledge, and using their experience to advocate for their clients’ rights.

Steps to Take Following a Multi-Vehicle Accident

Following a multi-vehicle accident, it is essential to take certain steps to protect yourself and strengthen your claim. These steps can help ensure your safety, document the incident accurately, and provide a solid foundation for any legal action you may need to pursue.

Ensure Safety

• Move to a Safe Location: If possible, move your vehicle to the side of the road to avoid further collisions. Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers.
• Check for Injuries: Assess yourself and others involved in the accident for injuries. Prioritize calling 911 if anyone is seriously injured.
• Stay Calm: Remaining calm is crucial in such high-stress situations. Take deep breaths and focus on ensuring everyone’s safety.

Call Law Enforcement

• Report the Accident: Dial 911 to report the accident to local law enforcement. An official police report will be invaluable for insurance claims and any potential legal proceedings.
• Provide Accurate Information: When the police arrive, provide them with accurate and detailed information about what happened. Avoid speculating or admitting fault.
• Obtain the Police Report Number: Make sure to get the number of the police report and the contact information of the responding officers for future reference.

Seek Medical Attention

• Immediate Medical Care: Even if you feel fine, seek medical attention as soon as possible. Some injuries, like whiplash or internal injuries, may not be immediately apparent.
• Follow-Up Appointments: Attend all follow-up medical appointments and adhere to your doctor’s recommendations. Documenting your medical treatment is essential for your injury claim.
• Keep Records: Maintain detailed records of all medical treatments, prescriptions, and related expenses. This documentation will be crucial when calculating damages.

Gathering Evidence

Collecting evidence at the scene is vital for building a strong case. Here’s what you should focus on:

• Photographs and Videos: Take clear photos and videos of the accident scene, including all vehicles involved, any skid marks, road conditions, weather conditions, and visible injuries. Capture different angles to provide a comprehensive view.
• Witness Contact Information: If there are witnesses, gather their names and contact details. Eyewitness testimony can be critical in establishing fault.
• Notes About the Accident: Write down your account of the accident while it’s still fresh in your mind. Include details such as the time, location, direction of travel, and the sequence of events leading up to the collision.
• Exchange Information: Exchange contact and insurance information with the other drivers involved in the accident. Be polite but avoid discussing fault or making statements that could be used against you later.

How Brown Chiari LLP Can Help

Multi-vehicle accidents pose a unique set of challenges, particularly when it comes to determining liability. If you or a loved one has been involved in a multi-vehicle accident in Buffalo, NY, don’t face the aftermath alone. Contact Brown Chiari LLP today for a consultation to discuss your case and explore how we can help you protect your rights and secure the coVisit our website atBrown Chiari LLP for more information and to schedule your consultation today.

As dedicated head-on collision lawyers serving Buffalo, NY, we understand the profound impact these accidents can have on individuals’ lives. Head-on collisions, known for their severity, can result in catastrophic injuries, often with lasting consequences. Survivors may face prolonged treatment and struggle to recover fully. 

Legal intervention is necessary for these collisions, often caused by negligence.  If you’ve suffered due to a reckless driver, seeking the counsel of an experienced attorney is crucial. Contact us at Brown Chiari LLP if you need assistance with head-on collisions. We are dedicated to helping those affected and getting justice for them.

Head-On Collisions

Head-on collisions are among the most severe types of car accidents. Two vehicles traveling in opposite directions collide frontally, often at high speeds.

This type of accident is hazardous because it involves the speed and momentum of both cars, resulting in more forceful impacts.

The Grim Reality: Fatality Rates Soar High

In head-on crashes, fatalities occur up to twice as often compared to other types. It’s a grim reality that can’t be ignored but should drive us towards finding solutions for prevention.

Dynamics of a Head-On Collision

A surprising fact about these accidents is that they mostly happen on rural roads. Why? The fewer lanes and no barriers allow for easier crossing in case of distractions, vehicle issues, or bad weather.

Head On Collision Facts & Statistics in Buffalo

Like numerous other towns and cities, Buffalo confronts the dispiriting truth of head-on collisions. The New York State Department of Motor Vehicles reports that Erie County, where Buffalo is located, witnessed over 3,000 motor vehicle accidents annually.

This figure includes all crashes, but let’s focus on head-on collisions. They’re often more severe due to the combined speed and force involved. Why do these accidents occur? They are often triggered by distracted driving and unfavorable weather conditions, which are persistent challenges faced by the residents of Buffalo.

If you or someone you know has been involved in an accident in Buffalo, this statistic is not just a number; it is personal. And you are getting legal help after such an incident becomes critical.

Causes of Head-On Collisions

Head-on collisions, where two vehicles traveling in opposite directions collide frontally, can have various causes.

Here are some common factors contributing to head-on collisions:

• Distracted Driving

Using a mobile phone, adjusting the radio, eating, or doing any other distracting activity while driving can accidentally cause a driver to drift into oncoming traffic.

• Impaired Driving

Driving after consuming alcohol, using drugs, or taking prescription medications can impair a driver’s judgment, coordination, and reaction time. This increases the chances of the driver swerving into oncoming traffic.

• Fatigue

Drowsy or tired drivers may need help focusing and reacting quickly, making it harder to stay in their lane.

• Speeding

Driving above the speed limit or too fast for road conditions reduces reaction time, increasing the risk of veering into oncoming traffic.

• Aggressive Driving

Aggressive behaviors such as tailgating, aggressive passing, and road rage can lead to dangerous situations, including head-on collisions.

• Poor Weather Conditions

Bad weather like rain, snow, ice, or fog can make it hard to see and cause slippery roads. This makes it difficult to control a vehicle and increases the chance of crossing into oncoming traffic.

• Incorrect Lane Changes or Overtaking

Improper overtaking, passing in no-passing zones, or making sudden lane changes without signaling can lead to head-on collisions.

• Vehicle Defects

Mechanical problems like brake issues or steering malfunctions can make a driver lose control of their car and accidentally move into the opposite lane.

• Poor Road Design

Inadequate road markings, confusing signage, or poorly designed intersections can contribute to drivers inadvertently entering opposing traffic lanes.

• Medical Emergencies

Medical events like heart attacks or seizures can happen unexpectedly while driving. These events can make the driver unable to control the vehicle and may cause a head-on collision.

We must educate drivers, enforce traffic laws, improve road design, and encourage responsible driving to prevent head-on collisions. To avoid head-on collisions, it is essential to practice defensive driving, keep a safe distance from other vehicles, and stay attentive while driving.

Typical Injuries Suffered in Head-On Accidents

Head-on accidents can result in severe and diverse injuries, impacting various parts of the body. Head-on collisions between two vehicles can cause multiple physical injuries for those involved. The force generated in such accidents can cause various injuries, from mild to life-threatening. Understanding the types of injuries suffered in head-on collisions is crucial for comprehending the potential consequences of these high-impact incidents.

Injuries Suffered in Head-On Collisions:

• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): Damage to the brain caused by a sudden impact or violent jolt to the head, often resulting in cognitive, sensory, or motor function impairment.
• Back Injuries: Damage to the spine or surrounding structures, which can lead to pain, limited mobility, or neurological deficits.
• Broken Bones: Fractures or breaks in the skeletal structure, often occurring due to the intense forces experienced during a head-on collision.
• Head Injuries: Any injury affecting the head, ranging from superficial wounds to more severe trauma, potentially impacting the skull, scalp, or underlying structures.
• Concussion: a mild brain injury that happens when the head is hit suddenly or violently shaken. It leads to temporary problems with thinking and memory.
• Neck Injuries: Damage to the cervical spine or soft tissues in the neck, which can cause pain, stiffness, or more severe neurological complications.
• Organ Damage: Harm to internal organs, such as the liver, spleen, or kidneys, often caused by the impact forces during a head-on collision.
• Whiplash is a neck injury caused by a sudden back-and-forth movement. It happens most often in car accidents, especially when a vehicle is hit from behind or head-on. This injury can strain or sprain the muscles in the neck.
• Bruises and Cuts: Superficial injuries involving the skin, tissues, or blood vessels, commonly resulting from contact with the vehicle’s interior or other objects.
• Facial Injuries: Harm to the face, including fractures, lacerations, or damage to the eyes, nose, or mouth.
• Blunt Force Trauma: Injuries caused by a solid and blunt impact, affecting various body parts and often resulting in internal injuries.
• Chest Injuries: Trauma to the chest region, potentially affecting the ribs, lungs, or heart, leading to breathing difficulties or cardiac complications.
• Contusions: Bruises or areas of damaged tissue resulting from impact or trauma.
• Hemorrhages: Uncontrolled bleeding, which can occur internally or externally, leading to potentially life-threatening situations.
• Amputation: The loss of a limb, often resulting from severe trauma during a head-on collision.
• Burns: Injuries caused by exposure to heat, fire, or chemicals, leading to damage to the skin and underlying tissues.
• Death: The ultimate and tragic consequence of a severe head-on collision, often resulting from a combination of traumatic injuries.
• Dizziness: Lightheadedness or unsteadiness commonly experienced after a head-on collision.
• Fatigue: Persistent tiredness or exhaustion can result from physical and emotional trauma.
• Headache: Pain or discomfort in the head, commonly experienced due to various injuries sustained during a head-on accident.
• Sharp objects or surfaces cause lacerations during a collision, resulting in deep cuts or tears in the skin or other tissues.
• Paralysis: Loss of muscle function or sensation, typically resulting from severe spinal cord injuries sustained in a head-on collision.

 

Head-on collisions result in diverse injuries, affecting immediate and long-lasting impacts. Car accidents can cause injuries like fractures, bruises, and cuts, as well as more severe effects like traumatic brain injuries and damage to internal organs. The impact of these collisions is significant. 

Beyond the physical toll, the potential for long-term repercussions emphasizes the urgency of prioritizing road safety. Recognizing the vulnerability of our bodies to the forces in accidents is very important. It reminds us to drive responsibly, follow traffic laws, and continuously improve safety measures. Focusing on raising awareness and taking precautions is crucial to reducing the impact of head-on collisions on people and communities.

Determining Fault in a Head-On Collision in Buffalo, NY

Determining liability for a head-on collision can be complex, and both drivers may bear responsibility in some cases. In some cases, both drivers may share the fault. Let’s dig into this.

New York follows the principle of comparative negligence regarding auto accidents. This means you can still get compensation even if you’re partly at fault.

A crucial step is getting hold of the police report after your accident. It usually includes an officer’s opinion on what caused the crash and any broken traffic laws. But remember, it’s not final proof of guilt or innocence.

Collecting evidence is vital, too. Photos and witness statements provide a clearer picture of what occurred before the impact. Eyewitness accounts can be potent tools.

Preventive Measures to Avoid Head-On Collisions

Being safe on the road is like baking; it needs attention, precision, and following some essential steps. Avoiding head-on collisions requires focus and attention to detail.

 

• Maintain Focus: Keep distractions at bay. According to NHTSA, distracted driving claimed 3,522 lives in 2021 alone.
• Lane Discipline: Maintaining your lane isn’t just a matter of courtesy; it has the potential to be a life-saving decision.
• Avoid Speeding: Life isn’t solely about reaching a destination quickly but also about relishing the journey. Just as slowing down to savor your favorite meal enhances the experience, reducing speed on the road enables you to react more effectively in unexpected situations.

Buckle Up:

• Your seatbelt acts as a protective shield.
• The NHTSA states that buckling up can drastically decrease the chances of being hurt.

The Role of Technology in Preventing Collisions

Technologies are increasingly being used to help prevent head-on collisions. From vehicle sensors to intelligent highways, we’re shifting towards proactive safety.

Driver assistance technologies, for example, are like having an extra set of eyes on the road. These systems use cameras and radar technology to detect potential dangers ahead, helping drivers react faster or even avoid hazards entirely.

Think about adaptive cruise control (ACC). It’s not just maintaining your speed anymore; now, it can adjust based on traffic conditions and maintain safe following distances – cutting down chances for head-on mishaps.

Lane keeping assist? Another game-changer. This technology helps us stay within our lane lines, preventing us from drifting into danger because of distractions or fatigue.

Innovative Road Infrastructure

We also see innovation off the roads with things like Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS). ITS improves traffic flow, reducing dangerous overtaking maneuvers that frequently cause accidents.

All these advancements aren’t here merely by chance but because they serve a purpose: To make sure you get from point A to point B safely. As technology evolves further, let’s anticipate even safer journeys ahead.

Contact Brown Chiari LLP Today for Legal Help

Experiencing the repercussions of a head-on crash can be intimidating. Don’t worry, you have help available.

Brown Chiari LLP has seasoned car accident lawyers specializing in personal injury cases, especially those resulting from head-on collisions. We’re well-versed in New York’s complex traffic laws and fight tooth and nail to get our clients the justice they deserve.

All should have access to competent legal counsel. That’s why we offer free initial consultations so that you can understand your rights without any financial burden upfront. You can schedule this consultation through our contact page.

Please inform us if you have trouble traveling due to injuries or other commitments. We are happy to meet you at a convenient location.

When someone is injured, they need to make essential decisions quickly because these decisions can significantly affect the outcome of their case. Waiting is not an option when your future is at stake. So, if you need help dealing with insurance companies or holding negligent drivers accountable, don’t hesitate to contact Brown Chiari today.

Accidents resulting in personal injuries can occur unexpectedly and affect individuals from all walks of life. In Buffalo, New York, Brown Chiari LLP specializes in handling various common personal injury cases that individuals may encounter. From car accidents causing severe injuries such as whiplash, broken bones, and traumatic brain injuries to slip and fall incidents occurring in diverse settings like grocery stores or public sidewalks, the potential for harm is widespread.

Other prevalent personal injury cases in Buffalo encompass medical malpractice arising from factors like misdiagnosis, surgical errors, and medication mistakes, as well as workplace accidents occurring across various industries, leading to severe injuries or fatalities.

Recognizing the prevalent types of personal injury cases in Buffalo becomes crucial for those who have suffered injuries due to another party’s negligence. If you need help with individual injury cases in Buffalo, consult an experienced personal injury attorney from Brown Chiari LLP. Our expertise can guide you through the legal process, ensuring that you understand your rights and helping you pursue the compensation you rightfully deserve.

Motor Vehicle Accidents

Motor vehicle accidents are one of the most common types of personal injury cases in Buffalo. They can happen to anyone at any time and can result in serious injuries or even death.

Car Accidents

Car accidents can occur due to various reasons, including reckless driving, distracted driving, and drunk driving. Car accident injuries can vary from minor cuts and bruises to more severe injuries like broken bones, spinal cord injuries, and traumatic brain injuries. If you’ve been involved in a car accident, it’s essential to seek medical attention immediately and contact a personal injury attorney to help you navigate the legal process.

Truck Collisions

These accidents can be particularly devastating due to the size and weight of commercial trucks. Injuries from truck collisions can be severe and life-changing, including spinal cord injuries, traumatic brain injuries, and even death.

Motorcycle Crashes

In Buffalo, motorcycle crashes are unfortunately all too frequent, often leading to severe injuries or even loss of life. Motorcyclists are particularly vulnerable on the road, and accidents can occur for various reasons, including reckless driving, distracted driving, and poor road conditions. 

Motorcycle crashes can cause a range of injuries, from minor cuts and bruises to severe injuries like broken bones, spinal cord injuries, and traumatic brain injuries.

Pedestrian and Bicycle Accidents

These accidents can occur for various reasons, including distracted driving, failure to yield, and poor road conditions. Pedestrian and bicycle accidents can cause serious injuries, such as spinal cord injuries, traumatic brain injuries, and even death.

Workplace Injuries

Personal injury cases in Buffalo often involve workplace injuries. These injuries can occur in any workplace, from construction sites to office buildings. Here are two common types of workplace injuries:

Construction Accidents

Workers are often exposed to hazardous conditions, such as falls from heights, electrocution, and being struck by heavy machinery. Injuries sustained in construction accidents can be severe and may include broken bones, head injuries, and spinal cord injuries.

Employers are required to provide a safe working environment for their employees. When they fail to do so, they can be held liable for any injuries that occur. 

Workers’ Compensation Claims

Workers’ compensation is a system that provides benefits to employees who are injured on the job. Under New York law, employers are required to carry workers’ compensation insurance. If you get hurt at work, you could receive benefits like medical care, lost income, and disability payments.

Workers’ compensation claims can be complex, and it is essential to have an attorney knowledgeable about the process.

Workplace injuries can be devastating, both physically and financially. If you have been injured on the job, seeking legal advice as soon as possible is essential. An experienced personal injury attorney can help you navigate the workers’ compensation system and ensure you receive the benefits you are entitled to.

Premises Liability Cases

These cases involve injuries sustained on the property or premises of a negligent third party. To win a premises liability case, the injured party must prove that the property owner was negligent in maintaining the property and that this negligence caused the injury.

Slip and Fall Injuries

These cases involve injuries sustained when a person slips, trips, or falls due to a hazardous condition on the property. Common hazards include wet floors, uneven surfaces, and obstacles in walkways. To win a slip and fall case, the injured party must prove that the property owner knew or should have known about the hazard and failed to take reasonable steps to fix it.

Inadequate Security

These cases involve injuries sustained as a consequence of unlawful acts committed on the premises, such as assault, robbery, or rape. To win a security case, the injured party must prove that the property owner was aware or should have been aware of the risk of criminal activity on the property and did not take reasonable steps to prevent it.

Property owners must ensure that their premises are safe for visitors. If they fail to do so, they can be held liable for any injuries that result.

Medical Malpractice

Medical malpractice occurs when a healthcare provider fails to meet the expected standard of care, harming the patient. Medical malpractice cases are complicated, so it’s crucial to have a knowledgeable personal injury lawyer to assist with the legal process.

Surgical Errors

Surgical errors are a common type of medical malpractice case. Surgical errors may involve operating on the wrong body part, leaving instruments inside the patient, or damaging surrounding organs or tissues. These errors can cause serious harm to the patient and may require additional surgeries or medical treatment.

Misdiagnosis or Delayed Diagnosis

Misdiagnosis or delayed diagnosis can also lead to medical malpractice cases. If a healthcare provider fails to diagnose a condition correctly or incorrectly, the patient may not get the proper treatment. This can lead to a worsening of the patient’s condition or even death. Healthcare providers must conduct thorough exams and tests to diagnose accurately.

Gather all the necessary medical records and documents to strengthen your case in medical malpractice cases.

Product Liability

Product liability cases arise when a product is defective and causes injury or harm to a consumer. If you have been injured due to a defective product, you may have a product liability claim against the manufacturer or seller of the product.

Defective Products

A defective product is unreasonably dangerous to the consumer who uses it as intended. The defect can be in the product’s design, manufacturing, or marketing. Examples of defective products include faulty car parts, bad toys, and dangerous power tools.

In Buffalo, NY, product liability claims are often based on the legal theory of strict liability. This means that the manufacturer or seller of the product can be held liable for injuries caused by the product, even if they were not negligent in any way.

Dangerous Pharmaceuticals

Dangerous pharmaceuticals are another common type of product liability case. These cases arise when a drug manufacturer fails to warn consumers of the potential risks associated with their product. Examples of dangerous pharmaceuticals include medications that cause severe side effects or that are improperly labeled.

If a defective product or dangerous pharmaceutical has injured you, it is essential to seek legal guidance promptly.

Dog Bites and Animal Attacks

Dog bites and animal attacks are common types of personal injury cases in Buffalo. Legal cases involving dog bites can be complex and difficult to litigate. Insurance companies might claim that the owner did not know the dog was aggressive during the accident. Therefore, it is essential to document the injuries and gather evidence in a dog bite case. If possible, the victim should promptly take clear photos of visible wounds, bruises, lacerations, torn or bloody clothing, and the dog. These images prove the attack’s severity and the dog owner’s negligence. In addition to photos, collecting medical records is crucial.

Liability insurance policies are the most common way a dog bite victim receives compensation for damages. FindLaw said the average dog attack settlement in 2022 was $64,555 per claim. Homeowner and renter insurance is often used to cover a dog bite claim. However, dangerous dogs or certain breeds usually do not receive coverage.

Dog owners can take several steps to reduce the risk of liability. According to Legal Desire, properly training and socializing their dogs from a young age can reduce aggression. Owners should also supervise their dogs and keep them on a leash in public places. Additionally, posting warning signs on their property can help prevent dog bites and animal attacks.

Assault and Battery Cases

Assault and battery cases involve one person intentionally causing harm to another person. These cases can lead to not only physical injuries but also severe emotional trauma and protracted legal battles. Assault and battery are different from each other because the defendant acted deliberately. Assault refers to the threat of violence, while battery refers to actual physical contact.

Assault and battery cases are intentional torts that involve the deliberate infliction of harm on another person. Victims of assault and battery may be able to file a personal injury lawsuit to recover damages such as medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. The victim must prove that the defendant’s actions breached a duty of care and caused their injuries or losses. However, the victim must also prove the element of intent or that the defendant acted deliberately.

In Buffalo, assault and battery cases can vary depending on the circumstances. For example, physical attacks, sexual assault, and verbal abuse are all different types of assault and battery cases that can occur.

If you have been a victim of assault and battery, it is essential to seek medical attention immediately. Documenting all injuries and recording any medical treatment received is also important. 

Nursing Home Abuse

Nursing home abuse is a serious issue that affects many elderly residents in Buffalo. It is a form of personal injury that can cause physical, emotional, or financial harm to the victim. Common types of nursing home abuse include neglect, physical abuse, emotional abuse, and financial abuse.

• Neglect refers to the type of abuse in nursing homes where the staff fails to provide proper care to the residents. This can include failing to provide food, water, medication, or assistance with hygiene. Neglect can lead to serious health problems, such as malnutrition, dehydration, infections, and bedsores.
• Physical abuse is a form of nursing home abuse in which the staff intentionally uses physical force to harm the residents. This can include hitting, slapping, pushing, or restraining the resident. Physical abuse can cause injuries such as bruises, cuts, broken bones, and head injuries.
• Emotional abuse is a type of nursing home abuse where the staff uses verbal or nonverbal behavior to harm the residents. This can include yelling, insulting, threatening, or isolating the resident. Emotional abuse can cause psychological harm, such as depression, anxiety, and fear.
• Financial abuse in nursing homes occurs when the staff exploits the resident’s finances. This can include stealing, forging signatures, or pressuring the resident to sign over their assets. Financial abuse can cause the resident to lose their life savings, property, and other valuables.

Take nursing home abuse seriously and seek legal help if you believe your loved one was a victim.

Wrongful Death Cases

Wrongful death cases happen when someone dies because of someone else’s negligence or wrongful act. In Buffalo, NY, the personal representative of the deceased person’s estate can file a wrongful death lawsuit on behalf of the surviving family members.

There are several types of wrongful death cases, including:

Medical Malpractice

Medical malpractice occurs when a healthcare provider fails to provide the appropriate standard of care, resulting in the death of the patient. Examples of medical malpractice include misdiagnosis, surgical errors, and medication errors.

Car Accidents

Car accidents are a common cause of wrongful death. When a driver’s negligence or recklessness causes a fatal accident, the surviving family members may be able to file a wrongful death lawsuit.

Workplace Accidents

Workplace accidents can also lead to wrongful death cases. If an employer fails to provide a safe work environment or follow safety regulations, an employee dies. As a result, the surviving family members may be able to file a wrongful death lawsuit.

Product Liability

Product liability cases occur when a defective product causes a person’s death. Manufacturers are responsible for ensuring that their products are safe for consumers to use. If a defective product causes a fatal accident, the surviving family members may be able to file a wrongful death lawsuit.

Aviation Accidents

Aviation accidents can be devastating and result in serious injuries or fatalities. Accidents like these happen for many reasons, such as pilot mistakes, mechanical problems, or errors in air traffic control. Super Lawyers says several personal injury claims may apply in aviation accidents.

Passengers, crew members, and even people on the ground can be affected by aviation accidents. Several experienced aviation accident attorneys in Buffalo can help victims and their families.

If you or a loved one has been involved in an aviation accident in Buffalo, seeking legal representation as soon as possible is essential. 

Boating and Watercraft Accidents

Buffalo has several waterways, including Lake Erie, the Niagara River, and the Buffalo River. As a result, boating and watercraft accidents are common in the area. These accidents can result in serious injuries, including broken bones, head injuries, and traumatic brain injuries, among others.

According to the U.S. Coast Guard, there were 4,168 boat accidents in 2019 alone, resulting in 2,559 injuries and 613 fatalities. Negligent or reckless boat operators are often the cause of these accidents, leading to unnecessary accidents in the water.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a boating or watercraft accident, seeking legal representation from an experienced personal injury lawyer is essential. The Buffalo personal injury law firm Brown Chiari LLP is proud to serve the needs of boating accident victims in Buffalo and Western New York. We offer a free consultation to discuss your case and help you understand your legal options.

Some of the most common types of injuries seen in watercraft accidents include contusions, bumps, and bruises, as well as broken bones, head injuries, and traumatic brain injuries. People are typically thrown about the boat quite seriously when the impact or collisions occur.

Environmental and Toxic Tort Cases

Environmental and toxic tort cases deal with harm to people or property from exposure to harmful environmental substances or chemicals. You can get these cases by being exposed to pollutants in the air, water, or soil or by being exposed to hazardous materials at work or home.

Some of the most common types of environmental and toxic tort cases include:

• Asbestos exposure: Asbestos is a mineral fiber widely used in construction materials until the 1970s. Asbestos exposure can cause serious health problems, including mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis.
• Lead poisoning: Lead is a toxic metal commonly used in paint, plumbing, and other products. Exposure to lead can cause developmental delays, learning disabilities, and other health problems, especially in young children.
• Pesticide exposure: Pesticides are chemicals used to kill insects, rodents, and other pests. Exposure to pesticides can cause a range of health problems, including respiratory problems, skin irritation, and neurological damage.
• Toxic waste exposure: Exposure to toxic waste can occur when hazardous materials are improperly disposed of or leaked from storage containers. This can lead to serious health problems, including cancer, congenital disabilities, and other illnesses.

In environmental and toxic tort cases, the plaintiff must prove that the defendant’s actions caused their injury or property damage. This can be challenging, as it often requires expert testimony and scientific evidence to establish a link between the defendant’s conduct and the plaintiff’s harm.

Recreational Accidents

Recreational activities such as sports, camping, and hiking are popular in Buffalo, NY. Unfortunately, these activities can also lead to personal injuries. Some of the most common types of recreational accidents include:

• Boating accidents
• Swimming pool accidents
• ATV accidents
• Snowmobiling accidents
• Hunting accidents
• Skiing and snowboarding accidents

Boating accidents can occur due to various reasons, such as operator error, speeding, and alcohol consumption. A lack of supervision, slippery surfaces, and diving accidents often cause swimming pool accidents. ATV and snowmobiling accidents can lead to severe injuries such as broken bones, head injuries, and spinal cord injuries. Hunting accidents can occur due to careless handling of firearms. Skiing and snowboarding accidents can be caused by collisions with other skiers, hitting trees or rocks, and equipment malfunction.

Contact Brown Chiari LLP Personal Injury Lawyer in Buffalo

If you have been injured in Buffalo due to someone else’s negligence, it is important to contact a personal injury lawyer as soon as possible. Brown Chiari LLP specializes in personal injury cases. Our experienced attorneys can help you with the legal process and fight for the compensation you are entitled to.

Brown Chiari LLP has a proven track record of success in handling various personal injury cases in Buffalo. Some of the most common types of personal injury cases we handle include:

• Car Accidents: If you have been injured in a car accident due to someone else’s negligence, our car accident lawyers can help you recover damages for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. 
• Slip and Fall Accidents: If you have been injured due to a slip and fall accident on someone else’s property, Brown Chiari LLP can help you hold the property owner accountable for their negligence. 
• Medical Malpractice: If you have been injured due to medical malpractice, our attorneys can help you recover damages for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. 
• Product Liability: If you have been injured due to a defective product, our product liability lawyers can help you hold the manufacturer accountable for their negligence. 

Contact Brown Chiari LLP today, and rest assured that you are in good hands. Our experienced attorneys will work tirelessly to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. We offer a free consultation to discuss your case and answer any questions you may have.

If you have been injured in Buffalo, don’t wait to contact Brown Chiari LLP. We have the knowledge and experience to help you navigate the legal process and fight for compensation.