The Truth About Police Reports in Buffalo Injury Cases

 What They Don’t Want You to Know

If you’ve been in an accident in Buffalo, you’re probably stressed, overwhelmed, and wondering what happens next. 

A police report might seem like just another formality, but it can make or break your injury claim. These reports aren’t always accurate, and insurance companies love twisting them to pay you as little as possible. 

The personal injury lawyers at Horn Wright, LLP, have helped countless injury victims in Buffalo challenge unfair reports and push back against insurance companies. If a police report is standing between you and justice, let’s fix that. 

Our trusted law firm in Albany is ready to help—reach out today for your free consultation.

Buffalo Police Reports Hold Power—Here’s How to Get Yours Before It’s Too Late!

After an accident, the police report becomes a key piece of evidence. It’s the officer’s official account of what happened. But getting your hands on it? That’s where the real power lies.

• It establishes fault. If the officer assigns blame to the other driver, that’s a huge advantage for your claim.
• It contains witness statements. Independent accounts can be gold when proving what really happened.
• It documents injuries and damages. Insurance companies look at these details when deciding how much (or how little) to offer you.

Want your police report fast? Here’s how:

• Request it online through the Buffalo Police Department’s records division.
• Visit the police station in person and get a copy at the Records Management Office.
• Ask your personal injury law firm to obtain and review it for accuracy—because mistakes happen more often than you’d think.

Once you’ve got it, read it carefully. If something looks off, act fast.

Will a Police Report Make or Break Your Case? Read This Before It’s Too Late!

A police report is powerful—but it’s not perfect. Judges, insurance adjusters, and attorneys all refer to it, but errors, omissions, or biased reporting can throw a wrench in your case.

How Insurance Companies Use Police Reports Against You

Insurance companies aren’t on your side. They’ll do whatever they can to use the report against you. Here’s how:

• Blaming you for the accident. If the report suggests even partial fault on your end, expect the insurer to latch onto that.
• Downplaying your injuries. If the officer didn’t note that you were hurt, the insurer may argue you’re exaggerating.
• Pointing out inconsistencies. If your statement doesn’t match what’s in the report, they’ll use it to challenge your credibility.

This is why reviewing your police report is so important. If it’s not in your favor, you need a plan.

The Critical Details That Can Save Your Injury Claim

When going through your police report, focus on these key details:

• Traffic violations. If the other driver was cited for speeding, running a red light, or reckless driving, that’s solid proof of their fault.
• Weather and road conditions. Poor lighting, slick roads, or obstructed views could explain why the accident happened and shift liability.
• Witness statements. A third-party account that backs up your story can be incredibly valuable.

If the report works in your favor, great. If not, there are ways to fight back.

What If Your Buffalo Police Report Is Dead Wrong? Fix It Now Before It Ruins Your Case!

Police officers make mistakes, and sometimes, those mistakes end up on your report. Maybe they misheard what you said. Maybe they got crucial details wrong. Maybe they left out something important. If your report isn’t accurate, don’t ignore it.

Here’s what you can do:

1. Contact the officer who wrote the report. Provide any proof—dashcam footage, medical records, or witness statements—that supports your correction.
2. File a supplemental report. Some police departments let you submit your version of events in writing.
3. Gather witness statements. If others saw what happened, their testimony could help correct errors.
4. Work with an attorney. A lawyer can challenge the report and present alternative evidence that strengthens your case.

The faster you act, the better. Don’t let an inaccurate police report destroy your claim.

No Police Report? No Problem! Here’s How to Prove Your Case Anyway

Not every accident results in a police report. Maybe the police didn’t show up, or maybe you didn’t think to call them. Either way, you still have options.

Alternative Proof That Can Strengthen Your Claim

If there’s no police report, build your case using other strong evidence:

• Photos and videos. Take pictures of vehicle damage, injuries, road signs, skid marks, and anything else that helps tell your story.
• Medical records. Seeking medical attention right away shows that your injuries are real and connected to the accident.
• Surveillance footage. Nearby traffic cameras or security footage may have captured the crash.
• Accident reconstruction experts. These professionals can analyze vehicle damage, impact points, and road conditions to back up your claim.

If your accident happened at work, you may also be entitled to workplace injury compensation, even without a police report. Documenting your injuries and filing an official report with your employer is crucial.

Why Eyewitnesses May Be Your Secret Weapon

If someone saw what happened, their testimony could be a game-changer. Eyewitnesses are unbiased and can provide key details that support your claim.

Make sure to:

• Get their contact information at the scene.
• Ask them to write or record a statement while the accident is still fresh in their mind.
• See if they’re willing to testify if needed.

Eyewitnesses can make it harder for insurance companies to twist the facts.

Insurance Companies Love to Challenge Police Reports—Here’s How to Shut Them Down!

Even when a police report is on your side, don’t expect the insurance company to roll over. They’ll challenge it if it doesn’t fit their narrative.

Here’s how to fight back:

• Have solid evidence. The more proof you have—photos, videos, medical records—the harder it is for them to argue.
• Leverage witness testimony. Statements from independent witnesses can reinforce your version of events.
• Challenge their claims. If the insurer tries to twist the facts, don’t accept it. Push back.
• Bring in an attorney. An experienced lawyer knows how to counter these tactics and keep insurers from lowballing you.

The bottom line? Insurance companies don’t play fair, but that doesn’t mean they get to win.

Let Horn Wright, LLP, Fight for You

A police report shouldn’t stand between you and the compensation you deserve. 

Whether you need to challenge errors, find alternative proof, or take on a stubborn insurance company, Horn Wright, LLP, one of the best law firms in America, got your back. Our team also provides slip and fall lawsuit assistance and car accident legal representation.

Our Buffalo personal injury attorneys know how to fight for injury victims in New York. Let’s talk—contact us today for your free consultation and take the first step toward justice.