When you're dealing with the aftermath of an accident or injury in Buffalo, New York, you need a personal injury lawyer who understands both the legal landscape and the unique challenges our community faces. At RK&L, our Buffalo personal injury lawyers have successfully represented countless clients throughout Western New York, helping them navigate the complex legal process while fighting for the compensation they deserve.

Types of Personal Injury Cases We Handle

As your trusted Buffalo personal injury lawyer, RK&L provides comprehensive legal representation across Western New York. When searching for a personal injury lawyer near me, you'll find our team handles a wide range of cases with the dedication and attention they deserve. Here are our main practice areas:

Buffalo Car Accidents

Our Buffalo car accident lawyers handle all types of vehicle collision cases on local roads, highways, and the I-190, including:

• Car accidents
• Commercial truck accidents
• Motorcycle collisions
• Bicycle accidents
• Pedestrian injuries
• Rideshare (Uber/Lyft) accidents
• Bus and NFTA transportation incidents
• Winter weather-related crashes
• Hit-and-run accidents
• Multi-vehicle pileups

Premises Liability Lawyer

When property owners fail to maintain safe conditions, our personal injury lawyer near me team handles:

• Slip and fall accidents
• Snow and ice injuries
• Inadequate security incidents
• Retail store accidents
• Restaurant injuries
• Parking lot accidents
• Stairway and elevator accidents
• Swimming pool injuries
• Building code violations
• Negligent maintenance claims

Medical Malpractice Lawyer

Our Buffalo personal injury lawyers represent victims of healthcare provider negligence, including:

• Surgical errors
• Misdiagnosis cases
• Medication mistakes
• Birth injuries
• Hospital negligence
• Emergency room errors
• Anesthesia complications
• Laboratory mistakes
• Nursing errors
• Dental malpractice

Product Liability Lawyer

When defective products cause injury, we pursue claims involving:

• Defective vehicles and parts
• Dangerous medical devices
• Faulty consumer products
• Defective industrial equipment
• Dangerous children's toys
• Contaminated food products
• Defective safety equipment
• Dangerous pharmaceuticals
• Faulty household appliances
• Toxic materials

Construction Accident Lawyer 

Our Buffalo personal injury lawyer team handles construction-related incidents including:

• Scaffolding collapses
• Falls from heights
• Electrical accidents
• Equipment malfunctions
• Falling object injuries
• Trench collapses
• Crane accidents
• Demolition injuries
• Building collapse incidents
• Safety regulation violations

Nursing Home Abuse

When seeking a nursing home abuse lawyer near me for elder care cases, we handle:

• Physical abuse cases
• Neglect and negligence
• Medication errors
• Falls and injuries
• Malnutrition cases
• Emotional abuse
• Financial exploitation
• Wandering/elopement incidents
• Inadequate care claims
• Staff negligence cases

Catastrophic Injuries

Our Buffalo catastrophic injury lawyers represent clients with severe trauma including:

• Traumatic brain injuries
• Spinal cord injuries
• Severe burn injuries
• Amputation cases
• Multiple fractures
• Internal organ damage
• Permanent disability claims
• Vision/hearing loss
• Disfigurement cases
• Chronic pain conditions

Wrongful Death

When negligence results in fatal injuries, our wrongful death lawyers handle cases involving:

• Motor vehicle fatalities
• Workplace deaths
• Medical error deaths
• Construction site fatalities
• Product-related deaths
• Premises liability fatalities
• Nursing home deaths
• Criminal act deaths
• Transportation accidents
• Industrial accidents

Dog Bites and Animal Attacks

Our dog bite injury lawyer near me team pursues claims for:

• Dog bite injuries
• Animal attack incidents
• Pet owner negligence
• Multiple dog attacks
• Child victim cases
• Severe scarring cases
• Rabies exposure incidents
• Emotional trauma claims
• Property owner liability
• Insurance coverage disputes

Contact our Buffalo personal injury lawyer team today for a free consultation regarding your specific case. At RK&L, we work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we secure compensation for your injuries. Let our experience in Western New York courts work for you as we pursue the justice and compensation you deserve.

How a Buffalo Personal Injury Lawyer Can Maximize Your Compensation

When you're dealing with the aftermath of an injury in Western New York, having a Buffalo personal injury lawyer by your side can significantly impact your case's outcome. At RK&L, we provide comprehensive legal support throughout every stage of your personal injury claim. If you're searching for a personal injury lawyer near me, here's how our team can assist with your case:

• Case Evaluation and Legal Strategy: Our Buffalo personal injury lawyers conduct a thorough assessment of your case, examining all evidence and determining the strongest legal approach to secure maximum compensation for your injuries.
• Evidence Collection and Preservation: We gather and safeguard crucial evidence including accident reports, surveillance footage, witness statements, and medical records to build a compelling personal injury lawsuit case for compensation.
• Medical Documentation Management: Your Buffalo personal injury lawyer coordinates with healthcare providers to ensure proper documentation of injuries, treatment plans, and long-term prognosis, creating a clear picture of your medical needs.
• Insurance Company Negotiations: We handle all communications with insurance companies, protecting you from potentially damaging statements while fighting for fair compensation that reflects the true value of your claim.
• Damage Calculation and Documentation: Our team thoroughly calculates all damages, including current and future medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and any long-term care needs resulting from your injury.
• Timeline and Deadline Management: Your personal injury lawyer near me ensures all legal documents are filed within New York State's statutes of limitations and meets all court-imposed deadlines throughout your case.
• Expert Witness Coordination: We work with medical professionals, accident reconstructionists, and economic experts who can provide testimony to strengthen your case and validate your claims for compensation.
• Settlement Negotiations: Our Buffalo personal injury lawyers leverage their experience to negotiate aggressively on your behalf, ensuring any settlement offers adequately compensate you for all damages.
• Trial Preparation and Representation: If settlement negotiations don't yield fair compensation, we prepare your case for trial and provide strong courtroom representation before Erie County judges and juries.
• Medical Bill and Lien Resolution: We help manage and negotiate medical bills and liens, working to maximize the amount of compensation you keep after your case resolves.
• Rehabilitation Coordination: Your Buffalo personal injury lawyer assists in coordinating medical care and rehabilitation services, ensuring you receive the treatment needed for optimal recovery.
• Future Care Planning: We work with medical and life-care planning experts to ensure any settlement or verdict accounts for your future medical needs and long-term care requirements.

When you need a personal injury lawyer near me who will fight tirelessly for your rights, RK&L is here to help. Contact our Buffalo personal injury lawyer team today for a free consultation. We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we secure compensation for your case.

Financial Compensation You May Be Entitled To After a Personal Injury

As your Buffalo personal injury lawyer, RK&L works diligently to secure every type of compensation you deserve after an injury. When searching for a personal injury lawyer near me, it's crucial to understand the various forms of compensation available under New York State law. Here are the types of damages we may pursue in your case:

• Current Medical Expenses: This includes all costs for emergency room visits, hospital stays, surgeries, medications, medical equipment, and ongoing treatment related to your injury from the date of the accident through the present.
• Future Medical Costs: Your Buffalo personal injury lawyer will work with medical experts to calculate anticipated expenses for continued treatment, future surgeries, rehabilitation services, and long-term care needs resulting from your injuries.
• Lost Wages and Income: We pursue compensation for all missed work time, including salary, hourly wages, commissions, bonuses, and other employment benefits lost while recovering from your injuries.
• Diminished Earning Capacity: If your injuries affect your ability to work in the future, your personal injury lawyer near me will calculate the difference between what you could have earned versus what you can earn now.
• Pain and Suffering: This covers the physical pain and discomfort you've experienced due to your injuries, both during initial recovery and any ongoing chronic pain conditions.
• Emotional Distress: Our Buffalo personal injury lawyer team pursues compensation for psychological impacts like anxiety, depression, PTSD, and other emotional trauma resulting from your accident and injuries.
• Loss of Enjoyment: We seek damages for activities, hobbies, and life experiences you can no longer fully participate in due to your injuries and their lasting effects.
• Property Damage: This includes repair or replacement costs for vehicles, personal items, or other property damaged during the incident that caused your injuries.
• Home Modification Expenses: If your injuries require changes to your living space, we pursue compensation for wheelchair ramps, bathroom modifications, and other necessary home adaptations.
• Transportation Costs: We include expenses for medical appointments, therapy sessions, and other injury-related travel, including necessary vehicle modifications due to disabilities.
• Domestic Services: Your Buffalo personal injury lawyer will seek compensation for housekeeping, yard work, childcare, and other services you need help with during recovery or permanently.
• Loss of Consortium: For married individuals, this covers the impact of injuries on your relationship with your spouse, including changes to your marriage's physical and emotional aspects.
• Permanent Disability: If your injuries result in lasting disabilities, we calculate the lifetime impact and costs associated with your changed physical or cognitive capabilities.
• Disfigurement: When injuries cause permanent scarring or other visible changes, your personal injury lawyer near me will pursue additional compensation for these lasting effects.

Contact RK&L today for a free consultation with our Buffalo personal injury lawyer team. We'll evaluate your case, explain which types of compensation apply to your situation, and fight to secure the maximum recovery you deserve. Remember, we work on a contingency fee basis – you pay nothing unless we win compensation for your case.

Common Injuries Associated with Personal Injury Cases

As your Buffalo personal injury lawyer, RK&L has extensive experience representing clients with a wide range of injuries throughout Western New York. When searching for a personal injury lawyer near me, it's important to understand how different types of injuries can impact your case and long-term recovery. Here are the common injuries we encounter in personal injury cases:

• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): These range from mild concussions to severe brain trauma, potentially causing cognitive issues, memory problems, personality changes, and long-term disability that requires ongoing medical care and rehabilitation.
• Spinal Cord Injuries: Damage to the spinal cord can result in partial or complete paralysis, requiring extensive medical treatment, adaptive equipment, and lifetime care support for affected individuals.
• Fractures and Broken Bones: From simple breaks to complex compound fractures, these injuries often require surgery, physical therapy, and extended recovery time, potentially impacting your ability to work and perform daily activities.
• Soft Tissue Injuries: These include sprains, strains, and tears to muscles, tendons, and ligaments, which can cause chronic pain and require ongoing physical therapy or surgical intervention for proper healing.
• Internal Organ Damage: Blunt force trauma or penetrating injuries can cause serious damage to vital organs, often requiring emergency surgery and resulting in long-term health complications that need monitoring by medical professionals.
• Burn Injuries: Whether from fire, chemicals, or electrical sources, burns can cause severe pain, require multiple surgeries, and result in permanent scarring or disfigurement that impacts both physical and emotional well-being.
• Whiplash and Neck Injuries: Common in vehicle accidents, these injuries can cause chronic pain, limited mobility, and ongoing medical issues that may not be immediately apparent after the initial incident.
• Back Injuries: From herniated discs to spinal fractures, back injuries can lead to chronic pain, limited mobility, and the need for long-term medical treatment or surgical intervention.
• Joint Injuries: Damage to knees, shoulders, hips, and other joints often requires surgical repair and extensive rehabilitation, potentially limiting future mobility and work capabilities.
• Nerve Damage: These injuries can cause chronic pain, numbness, and loss of function in affected areas, sometimes requiring specialized medical treatment and ongoing pain management protocols.
• Psychological Trauma: Beyond physical injuries, many clients experience anxiety, depression, and PTSD following accidents, requiring professional mental health support and counseling services.
• Amputation Injuries: The loss of limbs or digits requires immediate medical intervention, prosthetic devices, extensive rehabilitation, and significant lifestyle adjustments for affected individuals.
• Face and Eye Injuries: Trauma to the face or eyes can result in vision problems, disfigurement, and the need for reconstructive surgery to restore both function and appearance.
• Crush Injuries: Often occurring in construction or industrial accidents, these injuries can cause severe tissue damage, nerve injury, and potential loss of limb function requiring immediate medical intervention.
• Repetitive Stress Injuries: These gradual-onset injuries, common in workplace situations, can cause chronic pain and limited mobility, requiring ongoing medical treatment and potential career changes.

As your Buffalo personal injury lawyer, we understand how these injuries can impact every aspect of your life. When you need a personal injury lawyer near me who comprehends the full scope of your injuries and their long-term implications, contact RK&L. We offer free consultations to discuss your case and work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we secure compensation for your injuries.

Choosing the Right Western New York Personal Injury Lawyer

Selecting the right Buffalo personal injury lawyer is a crucial decision that can significantly impact your case's outcome. When searching for a personal injury lawyer near me, it's essential to evaluate several key factors to ensure you choose the best legal representation for your situation. At RK&L, we believe in helping you make an informed decision about your legal representation, whether you choose our firm or another. Here are important factors to consider:

• Track Record of Success: Look for a Buffalo personal injury law firm with a proven history of securing favorable settlements and verdicts in cases similar to yours, demonstrating their ability to handle complex personal injury claims effectively.
• Local Court Experience: Choose a personal injury lawyer near me who regularly practices in Buffalo and Erie County courts, as they'll understand local procedures, judges' preferences, and the specific challenges of pursuing claims in Western New York.
• Clear Communication Style: Your Buffalo personal injury lawyer should explain complex legal concepts in understandable terms and maintain regular contact about your case's progress, ensuring you're always informed about important developments.
• Resources and Support Staff: Ensure the law firm has adequate resources, including skilled paralegals, relationships with medical experts, and access to accident reconstruction specialists who can strengthen your case.
• Client Reviews and Testimonials: Research previous client experiences through reviews and testimonials, paying attention to how the Buffalo personal injury lawyer handled cases and communicated with clients throughout the process.
• Contingency Fee Structure: Verify that the personal injury lawyer near me works on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only get paid when you receive compensation, aligning their interests with your success.
• Professional Recognition: Consider recognition from peer review organizations and local legal associations, as these can indicate respect within the legal community and commitment to professional standards.
• Case Focus and Experience: Select a Buffalo personal injury lawyer who regularly handles cases similar to yours, as this indicates familiarity with relevant laws, regulations, and successful strategies.
• Initial Consultation Quality: Evaluate how thoroughly the lawyer reviews your case during the free consultation, including their assessment of potential challenges and proposed strategies for success.
• Trial Preparation Capability: Choose a personal injury lawyer near me who prepares every case as if it will go to trial, as this approach often leads to better settlement offers and ensures readiness if court becomes necessary.
• Support Services Access: Confirm the Buffalo personal injury lawyer can help coordinate medical care, handle insurance communications, and assist with other aspects of your recovery beyond just legal representation.
• Direct Attorney Access: Ensure you'll have direct access to your attorney when needed, rather than always communicating through staff members or case managers.

At RK&L, we encourage you to schedule consultations with multiple Buffalo personal injury lawyers before making your decision. When you need a personal injury lawyer near me who meets these crucial criteria, contact our team for a free consultation. We're happy to discuss how our experience and approach align with your needs and answer any questions about our services or track record of success in Western New York.

The Personal Injury Claim Process

As your Buffalo personal injury lawyer, RK&L guides clients through every step of the legal process. When you're searching for a personal injury lawyer near me, understanding how your claim will progress helps you make informed decisions about your case. Here's a detailed overview of what to expect when working with our team:

• Initial Consultation: Your Buffalo personal injury lawyer conducts a comprehensive review of your case during a free consultation, discussing the accident details, your injuries, and potential legal options for pursuing compensation.
• Medical Treatment Documentation: We help coordinate with your healthcare providers to ensure proper documentation of all injuries while you focus on receiving necessary medical care and following your treatment plan consistently.
• Evidence Collection Phase: Our Buffalo personal injury lawyer team gathers crucial evidence, including accident reports, witness statements, surveillance footage, medical records, and employment documentation to build a strong foundation for your claim.
• Insurance Company Notification: We handle all communications with insurance companies, submitting required notices and documentation while protecting you from making statements that could potentially harm your claim.
• Investigation and Analysis: Your personal injury lawyer near me conducts a thorough investigation, potentially working with accident reconstruction experts, medical professionals, and other specialists to strengthen your personal injury lawsuit case.
• Damage Calculation: We meticulously calculate all damages, including current and future medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, rehabilitation costs, and any long-term care needs resulting from your injuries.
• Settlement Package Preparation: Your Buffalo personal injury lawyer assembles a comprehensive settlement demand package that outlines your injuries, damages, and legal arguments for compensation based on New York State law.
• Negotiation Process: We engage in strategic negotiations with insurance companies and defense attorneys, advocating firmly for fair compensation while keeping you informed of all settlement offers and discussions.
• Lawsuit Filing if Necessary: If settlement negotiations don't yield appropriate compensation, our personal injury lawyer near me team files a lawsuit within New York's statute of limitations and prepares your case for litigation.
• Discovery Phase: During litigation, we manage the exchange of information with opposing counsel, including written questions, document requests, and depositions, while preparing you for any required testimony.
• Mediation and Settlement Conferences: Your Buffalo personal injury lawyer represents you during alternative dispute resolution attempts, which often lead to favorable settlements before trial becomes necessary.
• Trial Preparation: If settlement isn't achieved, we prepare thoroughly for trial, organizing evidence, preparing witnesses, and developing compelling presentations to convince a jury of your right to compensation.
• Trial Representation: Our Buffalo personal injury lawyers present your case effectively in court, examining witnesses, challenging opposing evidence, and advocating persuasively for maximum compensation.
• Post-Trial Procedures: After a successful verdict or settlement, we handle all necessary paperwork, negotiate medical liens, and ensure you receive your compensation as quickly as possible.

When you need a personal injury lawyer near me who will guide you through every step of this complex process, contact RK&L. Our Buffalo personal injury lawyer team offers free consultations and works on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we secure compensation for your case. We're here to answer your questions and help you understand exactly what to expect as your case progresses.

Get the Legal Support You Deserve

If you've been injured in Western New York, don't face this challenging time alone. As your Buffalo personal injury lawyer, RK&L is ready to help you pursue the compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a free, confidential consultation. Remember, you pay nothing unless we win your case.

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New York Personal Injury Lawyer FAQs

As your Buffalo personal injury lawyer, RK&L understands you likely have many questions about your case. Here are answers to some of the most common questions we receive. When searching for a personal injury lawyer near me, it's important to have clear information to make informed decisions about your legal options.

How long do I have to file a personal injury claim in Buffalo?

In New York State, the statute of limitations for most personal injury cases is three years from the date of injury. However, certain types of cases have different deadlines. For example, medical malpractice cases generally must be filed within 2.5 years, and claims against government entities require a notice of claim within 90 days. As your Buffalo personal injury lawyer, we recommend contacting us as soon as possible after an injury to ensure all deadlines are met and evidence is preserved.

How much is my personal injury case worth?

Each case's value depends on multiple factors, including the severity of injuries, impact on your life, medical expenses, lost wages, and long-term consequences. Your personal injury lawyer near me will evaluate your specific situation, considering current and future medical costs, lost earning capacity, pain and suffering, and other damages to determine fair compensation. While we cannot guarantee specific outcomes, we can provide examples of similar cases we've handled to give you a general understanding of potential value.

What if I can't afford a Buffalo personal injury lawyer?

RK&L works on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing upfront for our services. We only receive payment if we secure compensation for your case, typically as a percentage of the settlement or verdict. This arrangement ensures everyone has access to quality legal representation regardless of their financial situation.

Do I need to see a doctor if my injuries seem minor?

Yes, seeking prompt medical attention after any injury is crucial. Some serious conditions may not show immediate symptoms, and proper medical documentation is essential for your case. Your Buffalo personal injury lawyer can use these medical records to establish the connection between the accident and your injuries, strengthening your claim for compensation.

What should I say to insurance companies?

We recommend saying as little as possible to insurance companies before consulting a personal injury lawyer near me. Insurance adjusters may use your statements to minimize or deny your claim. Let your Buffalo personal injury lawyer handle all communications with insurance companies to protect your rights and ensure your case is presented properly.

How long will my personal injury case take?

The duration varies depending on factors like case complexity, severity of injuries, and whether a settlement can be reached without going to trial. While some cases resolve in months, others may take a year or more. RK&L works efficiently to move your case forward while ensuring we pursue maximum compensation for your injuries.

What if I was partially at fault for the accident?

New York follows comparative negligence rules, meaning you can still recover compensation even if you were partially at fault. Your percentage of fault would reduce your recovery. Your Buffalo personal injury lawyer will work to minimize your assigned percentage of fault while maximizing your potential compensation.

Will my case go to trial?

Most personal injury cases settle before trial through negotiation or mediation. However, if the insurance company doesn't offer fair compensation, your personal injury lawyer near me will be prepared to take your case to court. RK&L prepares every case as if it will go to trial, ensuring we're ready to advocate effectively for you in front of a jury if necessary.

What evidence do I need for my personal injury case?

Important evidence includes accident reports, medical records, witness statements, photographs, surveillance footage, and documentation of lost wages. Your Buffalo personal injury lawyer will help gather and preserve all relevant evidence to build a strong case for compensation.

How involved will I need to be in my case?

While your Buffalo personal injury lawyer handles the legal complexities, your main focus should be on recovery. We'll keep you informed of significant developments and consult you on important decisions, but we manage the day-to-day aspects of your case, including paperwork, negotiations, and court filings.

What if the person who injured me doesn't have insurance?

There may still be options for compensation, including your own insurance coverage or pursuing assets of the responsible party. Your personal injury lawyer near me will investigate all potential sources of compensation, including third-party liability or underinsured motorist coverage.

Have additional questions? Contact RK&L today for a free consultation with our Buffalo personal injury lawyer team. We'll take the time to understand your situation and provide clear answers to all your questions about the personal injury claim process.