Long Island Bus Accident Lawyer

You’re traveling around NYC and enjoying your day when the unthinkable happens. You get hit by an NYC bus. Whether you live in-state, or you’re a tourist, you’ll have the same reaction. First, the shock that you were involved in an accident with an NYC bus.

Then, worry as you don’t know what your coverage is in these types of accidents. You need to hire a professional that can build a strong case from the very beginning. The Falkowitz Law Firm has successfully handled the cases of many NYC bus accidents. You want someone on your side that knows what they are doing and can give you results. The validity of your case and representation will directly affect the settlement that you receive.

Our transit system is one of the most advanced in the world, but it is also one of the most dangerous. In NYC, we have one of the highest rates of accidents involving buses in America. If you or someone you know how been injured by a bus accident, it’s time to consult with a professional. The sooner that you sit down with a Long Island Bus Accident attorney, the better it is for the outcome of your case.

NYC bus accidents are more common than you think.

There are many situations that can result in an accident with or while riding an NYC bus. Were you a passenger on a tour bus while a bus driver’s negligence caused your accident or was your child on a bus that was hit by a drunk driver. Regardless of the situation, we can ensure that you receive the right compensation for your accident. Even if you feel like your injuries were mild, you are still entitled to fair compensation for your injuries as well as any damages. Gary has successfully handled many cases involving various types of buses, some of which include:

• Tour buses
• MTA buses
• School Buses
• Adult Care Buses
• Day Care Buses
• Church Buses
• Public buses, and more.

A bus accident lawsuit can be a complicated process, which is why you need to hire an expert. You need someone local that understands the traffic laws of both local and state. However, knowing the traffic laws isn’t enough. Your Long Island Personal Injury attorney needs to understand specific laws that regulate bus operations. For example, if your bus is a government bust, like the MTA, it will have a different set of regulations. A bus injury lawsuit is generally the only way for you to recoup all of your losses from an accident. The mandatory minimums do not cover all of the losses you will incur from an NYC bus accident.

Who is responsible for your NYC bus accident?

There are so many people involved with buses that it can be confusing who is responsible. An expert Long Island bus accident attorney knows how to build a case against the right people. In most bus accidents there are several parties that can be held liable. We will research your case to ensure that we bring your lawsuit against the right parties. You need a team in your corner that is ready to fight for you to get you the settlement that you deserve. There are generally three parties that are responsible for New York City bus accidents:

The driver: Whether you are a passenger or struck by a bus, the driver is usually at fault. They could be negligent because of distracted driving, poor training, driving while under the influence of alcohol or drugs, or committing a traffic violation. For example, if the driver makes an illegal turn and strikes your vehicle, then they are at fault.

Additional motorists: Traffic is so congested in NYC that most accidents involve more than one vehicle. If your accident is a multi-vehicle accident, you could hold other drivers partially or completely responsible.

Bus Companies: A bus company is responsible for maintaining buses and ensuring drivers are properly trained. If the bus involved in your accident is deemed unsafe for the road, then the bus company is at fault. We’ve also run into many cases where drivers are being overworked, and they are driving when they should be resting. There are many different situations where bus companies can be found liable.

NYC bus accidents are serious and on the rise.

Over the past several years, the NYPD reports that bus accidents are at a steady increase. Buses are a large portion of daily traffic on NYC roads, especially buses that hold tourists. A bus is a large vehicle, and when they are involved in accidents the injuries can be severe. Passengers of buses do not wear seat belts, so a collision can result in broken bones or permanent injuries. Pedestrians have the worst injuries from bus accidents because they have no protection. In fact, these collisions result in severe injuries and sometimes death. Having an expert Long Island bus accident attorney managing your case ensures that the right parties will be held accountable for your injuries. You deserve to focus on your rehabilitation versus the bills that are piling up on the counter.

NTSB Investigation

In addition to local agencies, the National Transportation Safety Board is a key agency assigned to investigate accidents involving mass transit.  They will issue a report outlining the following:

• Particulars of the incident;
• Evaluation of the facts;
• Explanation of the likely cause of the accident;
• Expert consultations; and
• Recommendations for improvements in safety.

Causes of Transit Accidents in Long Island

Most transportation service providers are considered common carriers, meaning they are licensed by the state and given operating authority by the New York State Department of Transportation (NYSDOT). Operators are required to do everything in their power to ensure passenger safety.  Nonetheless, accidents do occur. Common issues include:

• Equipment failure;
• Inadequate maintenance;
• Operator error;
• Electrical problems; and
• Dangerous conditions.

Common Carrier Laws in Long Island

Common carrier laws relate to entities that provide transportation options to the public, including trains, trolleys, buses, subways, and taxis.  These entities have a duty of care in regards to their customers, meaning they must provide safe and reasonable accommodations for passengers, as well as warnings for any hazards.  Failure to do so could be determined to be negligence, resulting in liability concerns. When a passenger experiences an accident that results in injuries, it could be argued that the carrier breached their duty of care, leading to physical and/or emotional injuries, in addition to medical bills, lost wages, and other costs.

What are the most common injuries from victims of NYC bus accidents

Physical injuries are common in any type of vehicular accident. With a bus accident, these injuries are often escalated and more serious. Some of our clients have suffered from:

• Head injuries
• Traumatic brain injuries
• Fractures
• Broken Bones
• Neck Injuries
• Back Injuries
• Burns
• Disfigurement
• Emotional Injuries
• Mental Trauma, and more.

What kind of compensation can I hope to receive?

Regardless of your injuries, victims can be compensated in a variety of ways. We can get you a settlement that covers your medical bills, physical therapy or rehabilitation, loss of wages, pain and suffering, or any other expenses you’ve had as a result of your accident.

Taking on a lawsuit alone can feel like an insurmountable task and taking on several parties is difficult. You need an experienced Long Island Personal Injury attorney that has handled bus accident cases and won. The Falkowitz Law Firm wants you to receive a fair judgment to cover your injuries and damages. Contact us today to set up an appointment to discuss your case.