Injured in a New York City Bus Accident? Here’s What You Need to Know

New Yorkers rely on buses to conveniently and affordably get around the city every day. But if you’ve been injured as a bus passenger or pedestrian, or your car was clipped by a city bus, it’s critical to understand your legal rights.

The Law Office of Jeffrey K. Kestenbaum is here to help you understand how bus accident liability works and how to prove negligence to hold the responsible parties accountable for your injuries.

Common Causes and Negligence in Bus Accidents

Bus accidents can result from various types of negligence, such as distracted driving, speeding, fatigue, and failure to follow traffic laws. Faulty tires, poorly maintained brakes, and other mechanical issues can also contribute to bus accidents involving MTA public transit, school buses, tour buses, and private shuttles.

To establish negligence in a bus crash, you’ll need to prove four key elements: (1) duty of care, (2) breach of that duty, (3) that the breach led to the accident, and (4) the damages you suffered. If a public entity like the MTA is at fault for a bus accident, strict notice requirements may apply and require you to take action right away to pursue a claim.

Bus Accident Victims’ Injuries and Claims

People involved in bus accidents can sustain numerous injuries, even in seemingly minor collisions. Common injuries include whiplash, bruises, soft-tissue damage, and broken bones. In severe accidents, spinal injuries, traumatic brain injuries, and even death can occur.

If you file a bus accident claim, you could recover compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and non-economic damages like pain and suffering. However, insurance doesn’t always fully compensate individuals for long-term and severe injuries, especially when large transit agencies are at fault.

Public vs. Private Bus Accidents

If a public transit company, such as the MTA, is involved, a higher legal standard may apply. These entities owe passengers a heightened duty of care, but to build a strong case against them, you’ll need detailed evidence such as on-scene photographs, police reports, witness testimonies, and medical records for treatment and future care projections.

If you were involved in an accident with a private bus, such as a charter bus or shuttle service, multiple parties may be involved. Depending on your case details, you could have a case against a private company, an independent driver, or a bus manufacturer.

A skilled personal injury attorney, like Jeffrey K. Kestenbaum, can help you navigate this process and handle negotiations with the relevant parties to protect your rights.

How Our Personal Injury Law Firm Helps After a Bus Accident

Bus accident cases can be complex and challenging to win, especially if you’re up against a massive entity like the MTA. That’s why it’s highly recommended to hire an experienced bus accident attorney who understands transit law, municipality liability, and common-carrier obligations.

At the Law Office of Jeffrey K. Kestenbaum, we have experience in private and public bus accidents and offer a personalized, aggressive approach. We are committed to investigating your claim, gathering critical evidence, and staying ahead of notice-of-claim deadlines. We’re ready to fight for full compensation for medical costs, lost wages, and pain and suffering related to your bus accident.

What to Do After a Bus Accident

Immediately following a bus accident, you could find yourself confused, overwhelmed, and in severe pain. Therefore, it’s smart to familiarize yourself with the steps to take after a bus accident, so you remember what to do after impact.

1. Report the accident to the police and file a report
2. Document everything possible at the accident scene while your memory is fresh
3. Immediately seek medical attention for injuries, even if they feel minor at first
4. Notify the involved transit company and file a notice of claim within the required timeframe
5. Save all accident-related evidence, including medical bills, photos, and witness contact information
6. Call a bus accident lawyer to protect your rights and maximize your compensation

Contact Us for a Free Bus Accident Case Review 

If you or someone you care about has been injured in a bus accident, don’t delay calling the Law Office of Jeffrey K. Kestenbaum. You can reach us 24/7 at 718-237-5586 or send us a message online.

You don’t have to face the legal battle alone if you were hit by a bus and your health is suffering because of it. Contact us today for a free case review and let us help you fight for the recovery and justice you deserve.