New York’s Mass Transit Authority (MTA) operates as North America’s largest public transportation system, including subways, trains, and buses. Many New Yorkers rely on these modes of transportation for daily travel. However, when an MTA accident occurs, passengers can suffer life-altering injuries. If you’ve been hurt in a bus accident, seeking counsel from our skilled New York City MTA Accident Attorney is crucial to exploring your legal options. Please continue reading to learn your rights.
What Are My Rights After a Bus Accident in New York?
Following a bus accident in New York, you have the right to recover damages for medical bills, lost wages, and emotional distress. However, bus accident cases are rarely straightforward and present unique complications. Multiple parties may be involved, such as the bus driver, the bus company, a third-party driver, the manufacturer, and a government agency.
Do Special Rules Apply for Claims Against Government Entities?
When you’ve been injured in an accident with an MTA vehicle, it’s crucial to understand that your personal injury case will be more complex, given the strict standards. You will need to file a Notice of Claim within 90 days of the date of the accident. This is because the MTA is classified as a public entity.
A Notice of Claim essentially notifies the MTA that they are subject to legal action. It provides the government agency the opportunity to investigate the merits of the claim and evaluate potential settlements. After you’ve filed your Notice of Claim, you will need to file your claim within one year and 90 days of the date of the collision. If you fail to meet this deadline, you will forfeit your right to pursue compensation.
Why Are Bus Accident Claims More Complex Than Standard Car Accident Cases?
Bus accident claims in New York are typically more complex and difficult than average car accident cases due to several key factors:
- Higher Stakes and Catastrophic Injuries: Bus accidents are often devastating due ot the vehicle’s size and weight, which significantly increases the risk of severe injuries. Additionally, the large number of passengers on a bus means these accidents result in a higher volume of injured parties, escalating the overall stakes of the incident.
- Specialized Regulations: Commercial transit, including bus operations, falls under rigorous federal and state governance, such as mandates from the FMCSA. Demonstrating a breach of these specific statutes by the company or driver is essential for establishing liability.
- Intricate Insurance Framework: Buses are safeguarded by extensive and multifaceted insurance policies. Successfully negotiating with the corporate legal departments demands professional guidance.
If you’ve been injured in an accident that involved a Mass Transit Authority bus in New York, it’s in your best interest to discuss your legal options with a dedicated attorney at Swerling Law. Our legal team is prepared to guide you through this complex process and fight for the just compensation you’re entitled to. Reach out to our legal team today to schedule a consultation.