NYC Bus Accident Lawyer

At the Law Offices of Ira M. Perlman, P.C. & Robert D. Rosen, P.C., we understand the complexities and challenges that victims of bus accidents in New York City face. Our dedicated NYC bus accident lawyers are experienced in navigating the intricacies of public transportation accidents, providing personalized and effective legal representation to those injured on NYC’s bustling bus routes.

What Constitutes a NYC Bus Accident?

A bus accident in New York City encompasses any incident involving a bus that results in injury, damage, or disruption, typically involving public transit or private coach buses. Here’s what generally constitutes a bus accident in NYC:

Types of Bus Accidents

• Collisions with Other Vehicles: This is the most common type of bus accident and involves a bus colliding with cars, trucks, motorcycles, bicycles, or other buses.
• Pedestrian Incidents: Buses can cause serious injuries when they strike pedestrians, especially in the densely populated areas of NYC where foot traffic is heavy.
• Single-Bus Accidents: These occur when a bus crashes without any direct contact with another vehicle. Causes might include losing control due to hazardous road conditions, mechanical failures, or driver error.
• Slips, Trips, and Falls: Accidents occurring as passengers board or alight from the bus, or while riding due to sudden stops, turns, or collisions.

How a NYC Bus Accident Lawyer Can Help

At the Law Offices of Ira M. Perlman, P.C. & Robert D. Rosen, P.C., we have 38 years of experience in helping victims of bus accidents navigate the complex legal landscape of New York City. If you or a loved one has been involved in a bus accident, our experienced lawyers are here to provide the support and experience necessary to secure the compensation you deserve. Here’s how we can assist:

Comprehensive Case Evaluation

Understanding the unique circumstances of your case is crucial. We begin by conducting a thorough evaluation of your accident to determine the liable parties, the extent of your injuries, and the impact on your life. This initial assessment is critical for building a strong foundation for your legal claim.

Experienced Investigation

Bus accidents often involve multiple parties and complex scenarios. We have the resources to conduct detailed investigations, including gathering evidence from the accident scene, securing surveillance footage, obtaining bus maintenance records, and interviewing witnesses. Our aim is to compile a compelling body of evidence that supports your claim.

Dealing with Insurance Companies

Insurance companies often seek to minimize compensation. Our skilled negotiators step in to handle all communications with insurance providers, ensuring that your rights are protected. We strive to secure a fair settlement that covers all your medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages without the need for a prolonged court battle.

Legal Representation in Litigation

If a satisfactory settlement cannot be reached, our experienced litigators are prepared to take your case to court. We have a proven track record of successful outcomes in jury trials and will advocate passionately on your behalf. Our legal team is committed to achieving the best possible results, ensuring that justice is served.

Personalized Legal Strategy

Each bus accident case is unique, and we believe in a personalized approach to legal representation. We tailor our legal strategies to the specifics of your situation, considering all aspects of your case to maximize your compensation. Our attorneys are accessible and communicative, keeping you informed throughout the legal process.

No Upfront Fees

We operate on a contingency fee basis, which means you don’t pay any upfront fees. Our payment is contingent upon securing a settlement or verdict in your favor. This arrangement allows you to pursue justice without financial worry.

Why Trust Us?

The Law Offices of Ira M. Perlman, P.C. & Robert D. Rosen, P.C. are renowned for our dedication and commitment to our clients. With decades of combined experience and a deep understanding of New York’s transportation laws, we are well-equipped to handle even the most challenging bus accident cases. Our goal is to make the legal process as smooth and stress-free as possible while fighting for the compensation you rightfully deserve.

If you have been affected by a bus accident in New York City, contact us today to schedule a free consultation. Let us help you take the first step towards recovery and financial stability.

Who is Liable for My NYC Bus Accident Injury?

Determining liability in a New York City bus accident can be complicated due to the multiple parties involved and the various factors that may contribute to the accident. Here’s a breakdown of potential liable parties:

1. Bus Driver

The bus driver is often the first potential liable party considered in a bus accident. Driver negligence, such as distracted driving, fatigue, impaired driving, or failure to comply with traffic laws, can be grounds for liability.

2. Bus Company or Transit Authority

The bus company or the public transit authority (like the Metropolitan Transportation Authority, or MTA, in NYC) can be held liable under the legal principle of vicarious liability, which holds employers responsible for the actions of their employees performed within the scope of their employment. Additionally, if the accident was due to inadequate training, poor hiring practices, or insufficient bus maintenance, the company or authority managing the bus operations could be liable.

3. Other Drivers

If another vehicle’s driver caused the accident through reckless driving, speeding, or other negligent actions, that driver could also be held liable. In such cases, the accident may be the result of a multi-vehicle collision involving the bus.

4. Bus Manufacturer

If the bus accident was caused by a defect in the bus itself, such as faulty brakes, steering issues, or tire failures, the manufacturer of the bus or the defective parts may be held responsible under product liability laws.

5. Maintenance Providers

Sometimes, the responsibility for a bus accident might lie with the parties contracted to maintain the bus. These providers could be legally liable if improper maintenance or failure to address known issues led to the accident.

6. Government Entities

In cases where the road conditions or traffic control devices (like traffic lights or road signs) contributed to the accident, the city, state, or municipal agency responsible for road design and maintenance might be liable. This is often more challenging to prove, as claims against government entities involve specific procedural rules and limitations.

The Critical 90-Day Deadline for NYC Bus Accidents Involving the City

If you’ve been involved in a bus accident where the liable party is a New York City entity, such as the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA), it’s crucial to be aware of the stringent 90-day deadline for filing a Notice of Claim. This legal requirement is your first step toward pursuing compensation, and missing this deadline can permanently bar you from filing a lawsuit.

Why the 90-Day Deadline Matters:

• Legal Requirement: The 90-day deadline is mandated by New York law for any claims against municipal entities. It serves as a preliminary notice to the city or related entities about your intent to sue.
• Preserves Your Rights: Filing within this timeframe is essential to preserve your legal rights to seek damages for injuries and losses sustained in the
• Time-Sensitive Evidence: Early legal action helps ensure that evidence is preserved and that witness memories remain fresh, which is crucial for building a strong case.

Given the complexities of legal claims against city entities and the strict adherence to procedural rules required, consulting with an experienced NYC bus accident lawyer immediately after your accident is imperative. An attorney can help you navigate these legal waters, ensuring that all paperwork is filed correctly and within the necessary timelines, and provide the guidance needed to secure the best possible outcome for your case.

Common Injuries from a NYC Bus Accident

Bus accidents in New York City can lead to a variety of injuries, ranging from minor to severe, due to the size and momentum of buses involved in collisions. Common injuries resulting from bus accidents include:

• Soft Tissue Injuries: Includes sprains, strains, and contusions from sudden stops or impacts.
• Fractures and Broken Bones: Commonly occur in the wrists, arms, legs, and ribs, potentially requiring surgical intervention.
• Head Injuries: Concussions and traumatic brain injuries from impacts within the bus or from shaking during a collision.
• Back and Spinal Cord Injuries: Can include herniated discs, spinal fractures, or severe cases like spinal cord damage leading to paralysis.
• Cuts and Lacerations: Resulting from shattered glass or sharp metal, possibly leading to significant bleeding or scarring.
• Internal Injuries: Such as internal bleeding or organ damage, which may not immediately present symptoms.
• Psychological Injuries: Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression following the trauma of an accident.

After experiencing a bus accident, it’s essential to seek immediate medical attention and consult a skilled NYC bus accident lawyer to ensure proper management of both health and legal concerns.

Compensation You May Be Entitled to After a NYC Bus Accident

If you’ve been involved in a bus accident in New York City, you may be entitled to various types of compensation, depending on the severity of your injuries and the specifics of your case. Understanding what you can claim can help ensure you receive full compensation for your losses. Here are the main categories of compensation typically available to bus accident victims:

Medical Expenses

• Immediate Medical Care: Costs for emergency room visits, hospital stays, surgeries, and other immediate medical needs.
• Ongoing Treatment: Expenses for follow-up visits, physical therapy, rehabilitation, and any long-term care required due to your injuries.
• Future Medical Needs: If your injuries result in long-term or permanent disability, you may be eligible for compensation to cover future medical costs.

Lost Wages and Earning Capacity

• Current Lost Wages: Compensation for wages lost due to time off work following the accident.
• Future Earnings: If your injuries prevent you from returning to work or diminish your earning capacity, you may be compensated for future lost wages.

Pain and Suffering

• Physical Pain and Discomfort: Compensation for ongoing pain and discomfort resulting from the injuries.
• Emotional Distress: Includes compensation for anxiety, depression, trauma, and other psychological impacts of the accident.

Loss of Enjoyment of Life

Compensation for changes in your lifestyle that prevent you from enjoying activities you once participated in before the accident.

Punitive Damages

In cases where the defendant’s behavior is found to be especially harmful or egregious, punitive damages may be awarded as a way to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar actions in the future.

Wrongful Death

If a bus accident results in death, the surviving family members may seek compensation for funeral expenses, loss of financial support, and the emotional pain of losing a loved one.

Legal Fees

In some cases, you may also be able to recover the costs associated with hiring legal representation.

Seek Justice and Maximum Compensation: Contact Us Today

If you or a loved one has been injured in a NYC bus accident, don’t wait to claim the compensation you deserve. The Law Offices of Ira M. Perlman, P.C. & Robert D. Rosen, P.C. are here to help you navigate the complexities of your case and ensure that your rights are fully protected. Contact us today for a free consultation, and let our experienced team advocate for the full compensation you are entitled to. Take the first step towards your recovery and securing your future—call now.

NYC Bus Accident Lawyer FAQs

When navigating the aftermath of a bus accident in New York City, it’s natural to have questions about your rights and the legal process. Here are some frequently asked questions (FAQs) regarding NYC bus accident claims and how an experienced bus accident lawyer can help:

1. What should I do immediately after a bus accident in NYC?

Immediately after a bus accident, ensure your safety and seek medical attention, even if you do not think you are injured. Report the accident to the police and gather contact information from any witnesses and all parties involved. It’s also beneficial to take photos of the scene and your injuries if possible.

2. How long do I have to file a claim after a bus accident?

In New York, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury lawsuit is typically three years from the date of the accident. However, if the liable party is a city or state entity, you must file a Notice of Claim within 90 days of the accident.

3. Who can be held liable for a bus accident?

Potential liable parties in a bus accident can include the bus driver, the bus company or transit authority, other involved vehicle drivers, the bus manufacturer, or even the city responsible for road maintenance, depending on the accident’s circumstances.

4. What types of compensation can I receive?

Victims of bus accidents may be eligible for compensation covering medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, loss of enjoyment of life, and, in some cases, punitive damages. If the accident results in a fatality, family members may pursue wrongful death claims.

5. Do I need a lawyer if the insurance company offers a settlement?

Yes, consulting with a lawyer is crucial, even if an insurance company offers a settlement. Insurance offers may not fully cover all your expenses and needs. An experienced car accident lawyer can negotiate to ensure that you receive the maximum compensation you deserve.

6. How can a NYC bus accident lawyer help me?

A bus accident lawyer will handle all aspects of your case, from investigating the accident and gathering evidence to negotiating with insurance companies and litigating in court if necessary. They ensure that your legal rights are protected throughout the process and work towards achieving the best possible outcome for your case.

7. What does it cost to hire a bus accident lawyer in NYC?

Most bus accident lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing upfront. They only receive a fee if they win your case, typically as a percentage of the settlement or judgment amount.

8. How long does a bus accident lawsuit take?

The duration of a bus accident lawsuit can vary widely depending on the complexity of the case, the clarity of liability, the severity of injuries, and the litigation process. Some cases settle quickly, while others may take years to resolve through the courts.

Ready to Discuss Your Case?

If you have further questions or need guidance after a bus accident, our team at the Law Offices of Ira M. Perlman, P.C. & Robert D. Rosen, P.C. is ready to assist you. Contact us today for a free consultation, and let us help you navigate your path to recovery and justice.