What to Do After a Car Accident in Buffalo Before the Tow Truck Arrives

The minutes after a car accident can be confusing. Before thinking about towing prices or repair shops, check for injuries, identify immediate hazards and contact emergency services when needed.

1. Check Yourself and Your Passengers

Some injuries are not immediately obvious. Seek appropriate medical attention when there is any concern about an injury.

2. Avoid Creating Another Collision

Turn on the hazard lights when possible. Do not stand between vehicles, in an active traffic lane or near leaking fuel. Move to a safer position only when it can be done without creating additional danger.

NHTSA reminds drivers to slow down and move over for stopped emergency and service vehicles displaying warning lights. Accident scenes remain dangerous even after the original collision has ended.

3. Contact Police When Required

New York requirements depend on the circumstances. The New York DMV states that drivers involved in property-damage-only crashes must exchange driver-license, registration and insurance information. Additional reporting requirements apply when a person is injured or killed or when property damage exceeds applicable thresholds.

Use official police and New York DMV instructions for the actual reporting obligations. A towing company cannot determine or replace a driver’s legal reporting responsibilities.

4. Exchange and Record Information

When safe and appropriate, collect:

• Driver names and contact information
• Driver-license information
• Vehicle registration information
• Insurance-company and policy information
• Vehicle make, model and plate information
• Police agency and report information
• Witness contact information

Avoid posting accident details, identifying information or accusations publicly while the incident is being reviewed.

5. Photograph the Scene When It Is Safe

Useful photographs may include:

• Overall positions of the vehicles
• Damage to each side of the vehicle
• Wheel and suspension damage
• Debris or fluid locations
• Traffic signals and signs
• Road and weather conditions
• Relevant skid marks

Do not step into traffic or ignore emergency-personnel instructions to obtain photographs.

6. Determine Whether the Vehicle Can Be Driven

A vehicle may look drivable but still have unsafe damage. Do not drive when there is concern about:

• Steering or suspension damage
• A tire rubbing against the body
• Fluid leaking from the vehicle
• Broken lights needed for safe operation
• Airbags blocking controls or visibility
• A wheel positioned abnormally
• Loose body panels
• Smoke, fire or electrical damage

Police, emergency personnel or a qualified repair professional may provide additional direction depending on the circumstances.

7. Tell the Towing Company About the Damage

Accident damage affects how a vehicle can be loaded. Before dispatch, explain whether:

• The vehicle rolls
• The vehicle steers
• It shifts into neutral
• The keys are available
• Any wheels are missing, bent or locked
• The suspension has collapsed
• Airbags deployed
• Fluids are leaking
• The vehicle left the roadway
• The police have released the vehicle for towing

Photos of the damaged wheels and the vehicle’s position may help identify equipment limitations before the truck travels to the scene.

8. Choose the Delivery Location

A damaged vehicle may be delivered to a collision shop, mechanical repair shop, dealership or another approved location. Before selecting the destination, confirm:

• The business accepts accident-damaged vehicles
• The facility has space
• After-hours delivery is permitted
• A secure key-drop procedure is available
• The business accepts the vehicle’s size and type
• Your insurer has not provided different instructions

Buffalo Towing Services does not operate an impound lot and does not offer impound towing.

9. Remove Essential Property

When authorities permit it and the vehicle can be accessed safely, remove medication, identification, keys, child seats, work items, electronic devices and other essential property.

Do not enter an unstable vehicle or interfere with the accident investigation.

Important Roadway Restrictions

Buffalo Towing Services does not provide service on I-90, I-190, Route 33 or Route 198. When an accident occurs on one of those roadways, contact 911 and follow the instructions of police and the responsible roadway authority.

We provide towing for passenger vehicles and qualifying medium-duty vehicles generally below approximately 9,500 pounds. We do not provide heavy-duty, semi-truck, RV or out-of-state towing.

Review our Buffalo towing options, check our service-area directory or submit the accident information through our online towing quote page.

New York Crash Reporting Reminder

The New York DMV explains that a motorist crash report may be required within 10 days when a New York crash causes a fatality, personal injury or property damage above the applicable reporting threshold. Drivers should read the current DMV requirements and consult appropriate authorities when uncertain.

Frequently Asked Questions

Flatbed vs. Wheel-Lift Towing in Buffalo: Which Does Your Vehicle Need?

Flatbed and wheel-lift towing are both legitimate vehicle-transport methods, but they are not interchangeable in every situation. Drivetrain design, damaged wheels, steering condition, vehicle weight, ground clearance and the manufacturer’s towing instructions can affect the correct method.

Buffalo Towing Services operates a 2023 Hino L6 equipped with a Century 12 flatbed and wheel-lift capability. Having both options allows the towing method to be evaluated according to the vehicle and job conditions.

What Is Flatbed Towing?

A flatbed tow truck uses a tilting carrier deck. The vehicle is positioned onto the deck and secured for transportation. During normal flatbed transport, all of the transported vehicle’s wheels are supported by the carrier rather than rolling on the road.

Flatbed towing may be considered for:

• All-wheel-drive or four-wheel-drive vehicles when required
• Vehicles with drivetrain concerns
• Collision-damaged vehicles
• Vehicles with damaged wheels or suspension
• Vehicles that should not roll during transport
• Longer-distance transportation
• Certain low-clearance or specialty vehicles after evaluation

A flatbed is not automatically suitable for every vehicle. Loading angle, ground clearance, wheel condition, vehicle weight and access can still create limitations.

What Is Wheel-Lift Towing?

A wheel lift supports one end of the vehicle by the wheels. The other wheels normally remain on the road during transport unless additional equipment is used.

Wheel-lift towing may be useful for:

• Certain short local transports
• Vehicles located where flatbed positioning is difficult
• Vehicles that can be transported with one axle raised safely
• Moving a vehicle from a restricted parking position
• Situations where the drivetrain and manufacturer instructions permit it

Wheel-lift towing must account for which wheels drive the vehicle, transmission condition, steering position, wheel condition and the vehicle manufacturer’s procedures.

Which Method Is Better for AWD Vehicles?

There is no single answer for every AWD vehicle. Some manufacturers require all four wheels to be off the ground during transportation. Others provide specific procedures for limited emergency movement.

The safest approach is to identify the exact vehicle and follow its owner’s manual or manufacturer towing guidance. Customers should not guess that a vehicle is front-wheel drive simply because a similar model was configured that way.

What If the Vehicle Will Not Shift Into Neutral?

A vehicle that cannot shift into neutral may not roll normally. Locked drivetrain components, electronic parking brakes, damaged wheels or transmission problems can complicate loading.

Tell the towing provider before dispatch. Buffalo Towing Services currently applies a $35 neutral-not-possible fee when the condition requires additional work or equipment.

What If a Wheel Is Missing or Damaged?

A missing wheel, collapsed suspension component, broken ball joint or severely damaged tire can affect both flatbed and wheel-lift loading. Photographs can help the driver evaluate:

• Which corner is damaged
• Whether the wheel is attached
• Whether the suspension is touching the ground
• Whether the vehicle can steer
• Whether there is enough loading clearance
• Whether the vehicle is accessible to the truck

Comparison Table

Information the Driver Needs

• Exact year, make and model
• Whether the vehicle is AWD, four-wheel drive, front-wheel drive or rear-wheel drive
• Whether the vehicle rolls and steers
• Whether it shifts into neutral
• Whether the keys are available
• Whether the parking brake releases
• Whether wheels, tires or suspension are damaged
• Vehicle modifications or very low ground clearance
• Pickup and delivery addresses

Explore our Buffalo towing services, review our service areas or provide the vehicle details through our online towing quote form.

Vehicle and Service Limitations

Buffalo Towing Services generally handles passenger vehicles and qualifying medium-duty vehicles below approximately 9,500 pounds. We do not provide heavy-duty towing, semi-truck towing, RV towing, impound towing or out-of-state towing.

We do not provide service on I-90, I-190, Route 33 or Route 198. Drivers in unsafe traffic locations should contact 911 or the appropriate roadway authority.

Frequently Asked Questions

Dead Car Battery in Buffalo: Do You Need a Jump Start or Battery Replacement?

A car that will not start does not automatically need a new battery—and a successful jump start does not prove that the battery is healthy. The symptoms, battery age, weather, charging system and reason the battery lost power all matter.

Buffalo’s cold weather can expose a battery that was already weak. Other causes include lights being left on, a charging-system problem, loose or corroded connections, long periods without driving or an electrical draw while the vehicle is parked.

Common Signs of a Weak or Discharged Battery

• Rapid clicking when the key is turned
• Slow engine cranking
• Interior lights becoming unusually dim
• Dashboard lights flickering during a starting attempt
• Electrical accessories working but the engine not cranking
• The vehicle starting after a jump but failing again later
• The vehicle being completely unresponsive

These symptoms can be associated with a battery problem, but they can also appear with loose terminals, starter issues, charging-system faults or other electrical problems.

When a Jump Start May Be Appropriate

After the vehicle starts, the cause still matters. If the battery repeatedly loses its charge, the vehicle should be inspected instead of relying on continued jump starts.

When Battery Replacement May Be More Appropriate

Jump Start vs. Replacement

Why We Request the VIN for Battery Replacement

Vehicles that look nearly identical can use different battery sizes, terminal arrangements, power ratings or installation procedures. Buffalo Towing Services requires the vehicle identification number for battery-replacement requests so that the battery can be matched more accurately.

Customers should also provide the year, make, model, engine information and any known start-stop or special electrical features.

Could the Alternator Be the Problem?

The alternator helps supply electrical power while the engine is operating and helps recharge the battery. Warning signs that may involve the charging system include:

• A battery warning light while the engine is running
• Lights that become brighter or dimmer with engine speed
• A vehicle that stops running shortly after a jump start
• Repeated battery discharge without an obvious cause
• Unusual electrical behavior while driving

These symptoms are not a complete diagnosis. When the cause is uncertain, the vehicle may need professional testing or transportation to a repair facility.

Can Cold Buffalo Weather Affect a Battery?

Cold temperatures can reduce available battery performance while the engine may require more effort to crank. Winter conditions can therefore reveal a battery that had already lost capacity.

The National Weather Service explains that Buffalo’s lake-effect snow patterns can create highly variable conditions over short distances. Keeping the battery, tires, fuel level and emergency supplies in good condition is particularly important before winter travel.

Information to Provide Before Requesting Service

• Exact safe location
• Vehicle year, make and model
• VIN when requesting battery replacement
• What happens when you try to start it
• Whether lights or accessories work
• Whether the battery is swollen, leaking or damaged
• Whether the vehicle was recently jump-started
• Whether any warning lights appeared before the failure

Visit our Buffalo jump-start service page, review additional roadside assistance services or submit a request through our online quote page.

Frequently Asked Questions

What to Do When Your Car Breaks Down in Buffalo, NY

A sudden vehicle breakdown can leave you unsure whether you need a jump start, tire service, fuel delivery, a winch-out or a tow truck. Your first priority should be protecting yourself and your passengers—not diagnosing the entire problem beside moving traffic.

Step 1: Move Away From Traffic When Possible

Do not attempt a dangerous maneuver solely to make the towing job easier. When the vehicle cannot be moved safely, contact emergency authorities and follow their instructions.

Step 2: Decide Whether It Is Safer to Remain Inside

The safest choice depends on the location and circumstances. Exiting a vehicle next to fast traffic can be extremely dangerous. Remaining in a vehicle can also be dangerous if it is exposed to traffic, fire, flooding or another immediate hazard.

Evaluate the surroundings, keep your seat belt fastened when appropriate and follow instructions from police, fire or roadway personnel.

Step 3: Identify Your Exact Location

A useful location description may include:

• The street address or nearest building number
• The closest cross street
• The parking-lot or business name
• The direction the vehicle was traveling
• A nearby Buffalo landmark
• The lot entrance closest to the vehicle
• A map pin from the customer’s phone

“Near Buffalo” or “somewhere in Cheektowaga” is not enough information to dispatch accurately. A correct pickup location helps prevent delays and unnecessary travel charges.

Step 4: Look for Simple Warning Signs

You do not need to diagnose the vehicle completely. However, a few observations can help determine which service may be appropriate.

The engine does not crank

A weak or discharged battery, starter problem, electrical issue or another condition could be involved. Do not assume every no-start condition will be solved by a jump start.

The engine cranks but does not start

This could involve fuel delivery, ignition, electrical or mechanical issues. Towing to a repair facility may be more appropriate than repeated starting attempts.

A tire is flat or damaged

Tell the provider whether a usable spare tire is available and whether the jack, wheel-lock key and lug wrench are present. Sidewall damage, wheel damage or damaged lug nuts may change the service that is needed.

The vehicle is stuck

Explain whether the vehicle is stuck in snow, mud, soft ground or a ditch. Include photographs when requested. A winch-out must be evaluated according to access, position, vehicle weight and surrounding hazards.

The vehicle overheated

Turn the engine off when it is safe to do so. Avoid opening a hot cooling system. Hot coolant and steam can cause serious burns.

Step 5: Gather the Vehicle Information

Before requesting service, have the following ready:

• Vehicle year
• Make and model
• Vehicle color
• Approximate weight or commercial classification when applicable
• Whether the keys are available
• Whether the vehicle rolls
• Whether it steers
• Whether it shifts into neutral
• Whether any wheels are damaged or locked
• The desired delivery location

Buffalo Towing Services handles passenger vehicles and qualifying medium-duty vehicles generally below approximately 9,500 pounds. Heavy-duty trucks, semi-trucks, RVs and vehicles exceeding the company’s equipment limits require another provider.

Step 6: Remove Important Personal Property

When it is safe, collect medication, identification, house keys, work equipment, child items and other property that may be needed before the vehicle reaches the repair facility.

Do not stand in traffic or place yourself underneath or beside an unstable vehicle to retrieve an item.

Step 7: Choose the Delivery Location

The customer should know where the vehicle is going before dispatch whenever possible. Confirm that the repair shop:

• Accepts the type of vehicle
• Allows after-hours delivery
• Has a designated key-drop procedure
• Has room to accept the vehicle
• Will be open when the vehicle arrives, when required

You can explore our Buffalo roadside assistance services, towing options and service-area directory before submitting your request.

What Should Be in a Roadside Emergency Kit?

NHTSA recommends preparing for breakdowns with useful supplies. A practical Buffalo emergency kit may include:

• Charged phone and charging cable
• Flashlight
• Reflective warning equipment
• First-aid supplies
• Warm clothing and blankets
• Drinking water and nonperishable food
• Ice scraper and snow brush
• Small shovel
• Jumper cables
• Tire-pressure gauge
• Necessary medication

Do not place warning equipment in traffic unless it can be done safely and lawfully.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Much Does a Tow Truck Cost in Buffalo, NY?

The cost of a tow truck in Buffalo depends on much more than the distance between two addresses. Vehicle size, loaded mileage, travel distance, towing method, time of service, vehicle condition and recovery difficulty can all affect the final price.

Buffalo Towing Services believes customers should understand how towing prices are calculated before requesting service. This guide explains the major factors that can affect the price of a local tow, long-distance tow, accident tow or medium-duty vehicle transport in Buffalo and Western New York.

What Determines the Price of a Tow?

1. The Base Service Charge

Most towing jobs begin with a base charge. The base charge helps cover dispatching the truck, preparing the equipment, traveling to the vehicle and loading or connecting the vehicle.

The applicable base charge may depend on whether the customer needs local towing, long-distance towing, accident towing or medium-duty towing.

2. Loaded Towing Mileage

Loaded mileage is the distance the disabled vehicle is transported after it has been secured to the towing equipment. A tow to a repair shop several miles away will normally cost less than a transport across Western New York.

Buffalo Towing Services currently includes five loaded miles in applicable towing base prices. Additional loaded mileage is calculated according to the selected service.

3. Travel Distance to the Pickup Location

A towing company must also travel from its operating area to the disabled vehicle. When the pickup is farther away, the additional truck mileage, fuel and operating time can affect the price.

Our current pricing includes the first 12 enroute miles. When the pickup is more than 12 miles from our routing origin, an additional enroute-mile charge may apply.

4. Vehicle Size and Weight

A compact passenger vehicle and a loaded commercial vehicle do not require the same equipment, positioning or securement. Customers should provide the correct year, make, model and vehicle type before dispatch.

Buffalo Towing Services handles passenger vehicles and qualifying medium-duty vehicles generally below approximately 9,500 pounds. We do not provide heavy-duty towing, semi-truck towing or RV towing.

5. Vehicle Condition

The driver needs to know whether the vehicle:

• Rolls freely
• Steers normally
• Shifts into neutral
• Has working keys
• Has locked or damaged wheels
• Has collision or suspension damage
• Is stuck in snow, mud or a difficult position

A vehicle that cannot roll, steer or shift may require additional positioning and equipment. Accurate information helps prevent price changes or delays after the truck arrives.

Current Buffalo Towing Services Price Structure

Additional loaded mileage is currently $4 per mile. Applicable enroute mileage, taxes, waiting time, special circumstances and approved additional services may affect the final total.

Can After-Hours Service Cost More?

Time-based surcharges may apply depending on when service is requested. Current applicable surcharges include:

• Weekday evening surcharge after 6 p.m.: $20
• Weekend surcharge from Friday at 6 p.m. through Monday at 6 a.m.: $35
• Holiday surcharge: $35

The correct surcharge should be shown or explained before the customer approves service whenever the required information is available.

What Other Charges Could Apply?

Depending on the job, additional charges could include:

• Additional loaded mileage
• Additional enroute mileage
• Waiting time
• Winch-out or recovery work
• A vehicle that cannot shift into neutral
• Damaged, locked or missing wheels
• Additional approved roadside work
• New York State sales tax

Buffalo Towing Services currently charges a $35 fee when a vehicle cannot be placed in neutral and the condition requires additional work or equipment.

How to Receive a More Accurate Towing Quote

Have the following information ready:

• Exact pickup address or safe location
• Exact delivery address
• Vehicle year, make and model
• Approximate vehicle weight when applicable
• Whether the vehicle rolls, steers and shifts into neutral
• Whether the keys are available
• Which wheels or vehicle components are damaged
• Whether the vehicle was involved in an accident
• Whether the vehicle is stuck off the normal driving surface

You can submit this information through our online towing quote page. You can also review our Buffalo towing services and the areas listed in our service-area directory.

Does Buffalo Towing Services Tow on Major Expressways?

Buffalo Towing Services does not provide service on I-90, I-190, Route 33 or Route 198. Drivers stopped in an active traffic lane, unsafe expressway location or other immediate danger should contact 911 or the appropriate roadway authority first.

Frequently Asked Questions