If you live in New York, there is a good chance you’ve used the MTA services at least once in your life. If you live in New York City, there’s an even better chance that you use the MTA every single day. The MTA is the largest transportation network in the country, so one could imagine the massive amount of people that use its services on a daily basis. However, the MTA is not accident-free. Bus and train accidents are not entirely uncommon, and when they happen, the damages are severe. If you have been involved in a New York mass transit accident and wish to recover compensation, here are some of the questions you may have:
What are the primary causes of train accidents?
There are several different causes of train accidents, and most of them are brought about through another party’s negligence. Here are some examples of driver negligence:
- Failure to comply with orders
- Railroad employees falling asleep
- Railroad employees operating under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- Failing to secure or release hand brakes
- Crew members receiving improper instructions
- Using brakes improperly
- Improper alignment of railroad switches
- Reckless pedestrians and conductors
- Excessively speeding
- Derailments
There are also several train accidents that negligence is also indirectly responsible for, such as poor upkeep of railroad tracks. If railroad tracks are not properly maintained, accidents may ensue. Here are some examples of negligent maintenance:
- Worn down rails
- Cracks around bolt holes
- Rusted or otherwise weakened tracks
- Broken welds
- Broken or dysfunctional switches
If you have been injured due to another party’s negligence, there is a good chance you will be entitled to financial compensation.
What are the primary causes of bus accidents in New York City?
If you use the bus services in New York City, the thought of an accident most likely never crosses your mind. However, buses are even more unsafe than trains. Some of the main causes of bus accidents are:
- A bus driver who is driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- A bus driver who is texting or otherwise distracted in any way
- A bus driver who is drowsy or fatigued
- Bus fires
- Large blind spots
- Poor weather conditions
- Negligent road design
- Discharging of passengers on unsafe or poorly maintained roadways
- A lack of seatbelts or fire extinguishers
- Sudden stops and starts
What is a Notice of Claim?
If you have been injured as a result of another party’s negligence, you will always have a fighting chance at receiving compensation. However, in New York, if you wish to file a claim against the MTA, you must file your Notice of Claim within 90 days of the accident. If you do not, you will not be allowed to file your claim. Once you have filed your Notice of Claim, you must then file your claim within 1 year and 90 days of the accident.
Contact our New York City firm
If you have been seriously injured as a result of another party’s negligence, contact Swerling Law today to schedule a free initial consultation.
