Although New York’s total bus ridership recently fell by 4.2%, official data from the Metropolitan Transportation Authority shows that millions of people still rely on city buses every year. If you use the bus system to reach different points throughout the city, you expect to make it to your destination safely. Unfortunately, not every ride goes smoothly.
Consult an experienced bus accident lawyer in New York if you were injured while riding an MTA bus. You may be able to pursue financial compensation for your injuries. Use this guide to learn how to file a claim in New York.
The Frequency and Severity of New York Bus Crashes
The Bureau of Transportation Statistics reports that the fatality rate among bus occupants has been on a downward trend since 2005. In New York City, the MTA strives to keep bus passengers safe on local roadways. Recent data from the MTA highlights the key safety indicators that all passengers should be aware of, including:
- An average route speed of 8.2 miles per hour
- An average of 5.71 collisions with injuries occurring for every million vehicle miles
- A customer accident injury rate of 2.19 for every million riders
You might not think that your next ride will be a dangerous one, but accidents can happen at any time. Passengers involved in bus collisions may sustain injuries like whiplash, lacerations, sprains, or bone fractures. Work with a bus accident lawyer in New York to discuss your rights and MTA liability concerns.
What Should You Do Immediately After a Bus Accident?
An accident can leave you shaken and frightened. In the immediate aftermath, it’s important to stay calm and assess yourself for any injuries. Some NYC bus injuries might not be apparent, so you should seek medical care right away to rule out serious health concerns.
Report the accident to the police and the MTA so both law enforcement and transportation officials have a record of the incident. If you’re able to, document evidence from the scene. Taking photos of the crashed bus or your physical injuries could help support your claim. Speaking to witnesses also provides evidence that an accident attorney may use in a potential bus accident lawsuit.
Understanding the Legal Process of Filing an MTA Bus Accident Claim
Taking care of your injuries and gathering preliminary evidence should be your main priorities following a bus crash. However, you shouldn’t wait too long to take legal action. Consult a bus accident lawyer in New York as quickly as possible.
They can assist you with filing a Notice of Claim, which is required when pursuing a claim against a government entity like the MTA. Under local law, you will only have 90 days to submit notice.
Part of the process may also include documenting your injuries via the MTA’s personal injury claim form. A professional bus accident attorney can guide you through the next steps:
- Gathering and reviewing evidence: You’ll need evidence to support your claim, such as medical records detailing your injuries.
- Attending a 50-h hearing: You may be asked to attend a hearing where the defendant’s legal team inquires about your personal injury claim. Your attorney can help you prepare and represent you at the hearing.
- Negotiating a settlement: After your hearing, the MTA may extend a settlement offer to resolve your claim outside of court. Lawyers may negotiate the offer if they don’t believe it fairly represents your losses.
- Filing a lawsuit: Should settlement negotiations fail, your legal team could file a lawsuit to bring the case to court.
If you end up suing the government agency, you’ll continue working with a bus accident lawyer in New York until the case resolves. Ongoing settlement negotiations may be successful and provide you with compensation. It’s also possible for the case to go to trial, where you risk not earning any compensation for your injuries.
Why You Can’t Delay Meeting With a New York Bus Accident Lawyer
New York law imposes a strict 90-day deadline for filing a Notice of Claim. If you don’t complete this step before the deadline, the court may bar you from pursuing compensation from a government agency. This may cause you to miss out on damages for your medical treatment, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more.
Attorneys understand the urgency and importance of completing this paperwork. Within days of the accident, you should start reaching out to personal injury lawyers who have experience handling MTA accident claims. You would then have up to one year and 90 days to file a lawsuit against the MTA.
Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer in Queens, NY, After an MTA Accident Leaves You Hurt
There are distinct differences between filing a car accident claim with your insurer and filing a claim against a government entity. Consult a bus accident lawyer in New York if you were injured while riding an MTA-operated bus.
Elliot Ifraimoff & Associates, PC proudly represents victims of auto accidents, including bus collisions. Our legal team consists of nine attorneys with over 60 years of collective experience. Don’t hesitate to contact our firm if you need a dedicated and knowledgeable personal injury lawyer in Queens, NY.
To schedule a free consultation, submit our online request form or call our office at (718) 205-1010.
Frequently Asked Questions
Learn more about filing an MTA personal injury claim below.
What Types of Damages Can I Claim?
You may be able to claim both economic and non-economic damages, such as compensation for accident-related medical care and pain and suffering.
How Can I Find a Reliable Bus Accident Law Firm in New York?
To find a bus accident law firm to represent you, research their attorneys’ credentials and case histories. Positive client reviews and testimonials may also influence your decision to hire a legal team.
What Evidence Can an Accident Attorney Use To Support My Claim?
A bus accident lawyer in New York may support your claim with various pieces of evidence, such as witness statements, photos of your injuries, surveillance footage of the accident, and police reports.