Steps to Take if You Were Struck by an MTA Bus in NYC
Combining transportation access across subways, buses, and railroads, the Metropolitan Transport Authority (MTA) offers high-quality transportation to more than two billion people across its zones, meaning that its customer database can be a bit tricky to manage. From subways and buses to traditional railroads, this organization makes transportation easy for the millions of people who call New York City home. Nevertheless, with its impressive fleet of vehicles, you can guarantee that problems will, at some point, arise.
Although accidents in subways and across railroads are common on a yearly basis, the MTA also has to deal with pedestrian accidents stemming from bus crashes. While we are happy to report that, for the most part, these accidents are relatively uncommon, these crashes can still be prevented. Distracted driving, poorly maintained buses, and additional issues are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to preventable tragedies.
Let’s take a closer look at some steps you can take if you were struck by an MTA bus in New York City.
Who Is Held Accountable for Bus Crashes?
In many cases, the bus driver is not always at fault for an accident. In some cases, every party involved in the accident may be held responsible for triggering this unfortunate crash. Here is a closer look at who could be held accountable or a bus crash:
- In some events, bus drivers who are improperly trained or are distracted (due to an impairment or lack of focus on driving) can be held primarily responsible for injuring people.
- In the State of New York, bus companies are held responsible for the maintenance and coordination of bus fleets. If the MTA failed to inspect the bus involved in the crash, these parties (not the bus driver) will be held accountable.
- On the flip side, other drivers may be held responsible if they have collided into the bus or blocked the flow of traffic.
The Influence of No-Fault Laws in New York
Remember that New York is one of 12 U.S. states that adhere to a No-Fault Law. Under this code, insurance companies must provide compensation, no matter who was responsible for triggering the crash. By means of the New York No-Fault Law, victims can be compensated much quicker, and legal officials can control claims much easier.
Overall, the insurance carriers of the bus that struck you or the vehicle that triggered the bus crash will provide the No-Fault application. However, you must also file one of these applications, especially if you are the pedestrian involved.
Personal Injury Attorney in New York State
New York City is a difficult environment to navigate day and night, but you can easily fall victim to a vehicle-related accident, even if you take extreme precautions. In the blink of an eye, you can be struck by a bus or a car, resulting in moderate-to-catastrophic injuries that can impact your life for weeks, months, and even years. Do not let an emergency of this nature deprive you of peace and well-being, especially if another party is at fault.
Although this might be difficult, though, you must remain calm. With the assistance of a lawyer who is experienced with personal injury cases, you can gather viable resources to create a strong case in court.
We at Gattuso & Ciotoli have more than 50 years of combined legal experience and deliver the some of the most high-quality legal services to victims of a wide variety of accidents in the vicinity of Syracuse, New York. We value your perspective on your case and your goals for the future and ready to help you receive the justice you deserve. For more information on our four practice areas or your legal matter, contact us at (315) 314-8000 today.