The Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) operates the largest municipal bus fleet in the U.S., with approximately 5,725 buses serving over 200 local and 30 express routes across all five boroughs. While this public bus system is a vital resource for New Yorkers, it is not immune to accidents that cause serious injuries to passengers, pedestrians, and drivers.
If you’ve been involved in a bus accident in New York City, here’s what you need to know about handling MTA injury claims effectively.
Common Causes of MTA Bus Accidents
MTA buses are involved in numerous collisions each year with other vehicles, pedestrians, and stationary objects. Additionally, slip-and-fall accidents occur on buses due to wet or icy conditions. Key factors contributing to MTA bus accidents include:
- Driver negligence, such as distracted driving or intoxication.
- Crowded urban environments, leading to frequent collisions.
- Poor road conditions, including bad weather or construction zones.
- Maintenance issues, such as defective equipment or failure to repair buses in a timely manner.
These factors underscore the importance of holding the appropriate parties accountable for negligence.
Common Injuries in Bus Accidents
Even minor bus accidents can cause injuries such as whiplash, cuts, scrapes, and bruises. However, the size and speed of buses can result in severe injuries, including:
- Broken bones or fractures.
- Traumatic brain injuries, such as concussions.
- Severed limbs.
- Fatal injuries in extreme cases.
If you’ve been injured in an MTA bus accident, seeking prompt medical attention and documenting your injuries is essential.
Suing the MTA for an Accident
Suing the MTA for Bus-Related Injuries
Filing a claim against the MTA involves specific legal procedures and deadlines that differ from typical personal injury cases. Here’s what to know:
- Filing an insurance claim: If another vehicle caused the accident, you may file a claim with that driver’s insurance.
- Suing the MTA: Victims can sue the MTA directly for negligence if the transportation authority or bus driver is at fault.
- Shared liability: In some cases, multiple parties may share responsibility, such as the MTA, the bus driver, or a third-party driver.
The MTA’s insurance policies often allow for more substantial compensation than an individual driver’s coverage, but navigating these claims can be challenging without legal expertise.
Proving Negligence in an MTA Bus Accident
Establishing negligence in bus accidents is often complex due to the involvement of multiple parties. Bus accident cases fall under common carrier law, which holds carriers to a high duty of care for passenger safety.
To prove negligence in an MTA injury claim, you’ll need strong evidence, such as:
- Photographs of the accident scene and damages.
- Police and weather reports.
- Witness statements.
- Medical records and bills.
- Proof of lost wages.
While the MTA’s duty to care for passengers is well-established under common carrier laws, having detailed evidence strengthens your case.
How a NYC Injury Attorney Can Help
Handling MTA injury claims can be daunting, but an experienced NYC personal injury lawyer can navigate the process and fight for the compensation you deserve.
At The Law Office of Jeffrey K. Kestenbaum, we’ve helped numerous clients successfully pursue MTA injury claims and recover damages for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. We’ll work tirelessly to build your case, collect evidence, and hold the MTA and any other liable parties accountable.
Don’t let the complexity of MTA injury claims or the power of large organizations deter you. Call us at 718-237-5586 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation. We’re here to protect your rights and help you move forward after a public transit accident.
When you step onboard a bus or train, the last thing you’re likely thinking of is getting into an accident. However, public transportation accidents are actually very common and the results often devastating.
