Buffalo Car Accident Statistics
Car accidents can happen at any time, for any reason. Whether it’s caused by a distracted driver, icy roads, or sudden mechanical failure, an accident often leaves victims confused and looking for answers. If you’ve been in a car accident in Buffalo or Erie County, you don’t have to suffer the aftermath alone.
At Richmond Vona, we believe data has the power to bring clarity and comfort. Understanding the latest Buffalo car accident statistics can shed light on the scope of traffic incidents in our community and the importance of road safety measures.

Buffalo Car Accident Trends

Data Source: City of Buffalo Received Traffic Incident Calls Data Portal
Most reported traffic incidents in Buffalo involve property damage, including fender benders, minor collisions, or parking lot scrapes. However, injury-related car accident calls consistently account for 25 to 30 percent of all traffic incident reports and include crashes resulting in anything from whiplash and concussions to serious, life-altering injuries.
This data is based on initial reports made at the scene. Many car accident victims don’t experience symptoms until hours or even days later, so the actual number of injury-related car accidents in Buffalo may be underreported.

Fatal Car Accidents in Buffalo


Buffalo Long-Term Traffic Incident Statistics and Recent Shifts
From 2006 to 2018, traffic incident calls in the City of Buffalo steadily increased. However, beginning in January 2020, there was a noticeable and sudden drop in incident calls, likely influenced by the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic and reduced travel. Since then, the data shows a gradual decline in reported incidents, with numbers continuing to trend downward into 2023.
Fewer calls might suggest improved safety. However, reduced commuting, shifts in reporting behavior, or other factors could also influence the data.


Data Source: City of Buffalo Received Traffic Incident Calls Data Portal
Where Do Most Traffic Incidents Occur in Buffalo?
Certain intersections and districts consistently see higher volumes of collisions and emergency calls. These hotspots often involve a dangerous mix of heavy traffic flow, limited visibility, high pedestrian activity, and outdated infrastructure, all contributing to an increased risk of injury or death.
Several intersections and corridors in the City of Buffalo and greater Erie County stand out for their frequency of accidents:
-
Delaware Avenue and Chippewa
This intersection sees significant traffic volume, turning vehicles, and pedestrian crossings. The convergence of multiple roads and high foot traffic increases the likelihood of collisions, especially at night and on weekends. -
Niagara Falls Boulevard
This area is dense with commercial activity, poorly marked crosswalks, inadequate lighting, and frequent speeding, conditions that put drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians at elevated risk of harm. -
Transit Road and Maple/Greiner Road
As one of the busiest intersections in the region, this location in Amherst has a high concentration of injury accidents. Surrounded by shopping centers, fast food outlets, and continuous cross-traffic, this intersection poses a daily danger to commuters and local drivers. -
Union Road and Williams Street
This intersection regularly experiences serious and fatal crashes. Rush hour congestion, limited turn lanes, and signal timing issues contribute to the intersection’s high crash rate. - Five Corners in Orchard ParkThis complex intersection sees serious accident rates, especially during peak traffic hours. Drivers often misjudge traffic patterns or race yellow lights, increasing the risk of collision.
-
Southwestern Boulevard and McKinley Parkway
This intersection is known for dangerous behavior spurred by a short green light. Drivers tend to speed through turns to avoid delays, causing backups and aggressive maneuvers that end in collisions. -
Main Street and Bailey Avenue
Bordering residential neighborhoods and commercial businesses, this intersection has a long history of accidents. High vehicle counts, buses, and limited visibility create dangerous conditions.

Data Source: City of Buffalo Received Traffic Incident Calls Data Portal

Data Source: City of Buffalo Received Traffic Incident Calls Data Portal
Why Is the Buffalo Skyway a Frequent Site for Traffic Incidents?
So many crashes occur on the Buffalo Skyway expressway that it has its own category within Buffalo’s traffic incident report data. Between low visibility, narrow lanes, high winds, and limited shoulders, the Skyway presents unique hazards not typically found on ground-level roads.
Local news outlets have covered Skyway crashes extensively over the years, and city officials have repeatedly debated its future, with some even proposing removing the Skyway altogether due to its continuous role in Buffalo car accidents on bridges.
The Skyway offers convenience but also comes with serious risks, which is why we at Richmond Vona continue to advocate for individual safety and broader reform.
When the Unexpected Happens, Expect Richmond Vona
Car crashes can happen anywhere and at any time, and the impact can be life-changing. Whether you’re dealing with physical injuries, emotional trauma, or financial uncertainty, it’s not something you should face alone. That’s why Richmond Vona’s Buffalo car accident attorneys are here for you with a local team, a deep understanding of Buffalo car accident statistics, and an unwavering commitment to the people of Erie County.
Whether your accident occurred at one of the city’s most dangerous intersections or in a quieter corner of Western New York, you can count on our team to be ready, responsive, and by your side from day one.
We know this community because we’re part of it. With over $200 million in recoveries and more than two decades of combined personal injury experience, our attorneys bring the skill, compassion, and local knowledge to get you the results you need.
Whether your accident happened in one of the city’s most dangerous intersections or somewhere less expected, you can count on our team to be ready, responsive, and by your side from day one. As Buffalo’s fastest-growing personal injury law firm, we combine advanced legal strategies with personalized, compassionate support, treating every client like part of the family. Call us today at 716-500-5678 for a free case evaluation from a Buffalo car accident lawyer.
YOUR FUTURE IS WORTH FIGHTING FOR
"*" indicates required fields