Why Choose Us?
Bus accident cases often involve government agencies, complex insurance rules, and strict deadlines. Our firm understands how New York public transportation claims work and how liability is proven. We focus on detailed investigations, clear advice, and strong advocacy for injured passengers.
- Decades of experience handling serious injury claims
- Free consultations with no upfront fees
- Deep knowledge of municipal and state liability rules
- Proven results in transportation accident cases
- Personalized support throughout your case
Residents in Westchester and throughout New York City rely on many public transportation types, including bus lines. Using New York buses can be risky; every year, bus accidents cause passengers injuries. Unfortunately, many bus accidents are preventable and caused by negligent drivers or poorly maintained buses.
Common Causes of Bus Accidents
Bus accidents can happen due to a wide range of causes. Some bus accidents result from defective auto parts or negligent maintenance. Bus owners have a legal duty to ensure their buses are well-maintained. When faulty braking systems, lights, or mechanical parts cause an accident, victims can hold the responsible party accountable.
Bus Driver Fatigue and Distracted Driving
Bus drivers work long hours and are responsible for navigating large vehicles through heavy traffic. They may be required to cover long distances in a short amount of time. The pressure and stress of the job can cause bus drivers to become fatigued, negatively affecting their ability to drive the bus and respond safely to traffic and road hazards.
As with other drivers, distracted driving is always a temptation for bus drivers. Eating, using GPS devices, texting, or talking to passengers causes a driver to become distracted. Anytime a bus driver is distracted, he or she will not be able to respond quickly to avoid a preventable accident. Driving while intoxicated or under the influence of drugs while operating a bus also poses a serious risk to everyone on the road.
Common Bus Accident Injuries
Due to the size and weight of buses and the fact that most buses don’t have safety belts for their passengers, bus accidents can cause devastating consequences. Additionally, buses are prone to tip over or roll over, leading to serious injuries, such as:
- Broken bones
- Lacerations
- Back, neck, and head injuries
- Whiplash
- Spinal cord injuries
- Traumatic brain injury (TBI)
- Wrongful death
Who Is Liable After a New York Bus Accident?
Proving liability after a bus accident is an essential step in obtaining compensation. Attorney Michael LoGiudice, LLP, will thoroughly investigate your bus accident case to determine the causes of the accident and identify the at-fault party. Depending on the facts in your bus accident case, you may be able to pursue damages against multiple parties, including the following:
- Bee-Line Bus System
- Metro-North Railroad
- All Orange County buses
- MTA Bus Company
- Liberty Lines Transit
- Greyhound
- Global Transportation Inc.
- Charter rental buses
- Royal Coach
- Greyhound
- Party buses
- School buses
In addition to bus drivers and bus companies, other motorists could be responsible for your bus accident injuries. For example, suppose a drunk driver collided with your bus. In that case, you can pursue damages against the third-party driver. If a bus driver and another third-party driver are distracted and cause an accident, victims could pursue damages from both negligent parties. Finally, if an employer hired the driver who caused your accident, you may be able to pursue compensation from the employer directly.
Can You Sue a Government Agency After a Bus Accident?
Yes, but claims against government agencies follow special rules. Many buses in Westchester and New York City are operated by the state or local municipalities.
Key requirements include:
- Filing a Notice of Claim within strict deadlines
- Meeting specific filing and service requirements
- Proving negligence beyond ordinary insurance claims
Missing a deadline can permanently bar your claim, which is why early legal guidance is critical.
Claims Against New York State and Municipal Bus Operators
When a bus operated by New York State causes an injury, claims are typically filed in the New York State Court of Claims. In most negligence and wrongful death cases, the claim must be filed within 90 days of the accident.
Claims against counties, cities, or towns also require timely Notices of Claim. These deadlines arrive quickly, and failure to comply can eliminate your right to compensation.
Pursuing Compensation Through an Insurance Claim
New York is a no-fault insurance state and requires insurance companies to provide coverage for first-party benefits such as medical bills, lost wages, and other healthcare expenses. If you were injured in a bus accident and you or someone in your home who owns an automobile, you will be required to file a claim with your insurance company.
You can still pursue a lawsuit if you suffered a serious injury, which will allow you to recover non-economic damages, such as pain and suffering. If you do not have auto insurance, you can pursue an insurance claim through the bus company’s insurance policy. Pursuing an insurance claim can be complicated, and working with an experienced attorney can help you significantly.
Contact Our New York Bus Accident Lawyer
A bus accident can leave you facing pain, medical bills, and uncertainty about your future. You do not have to handle this process alone. Michael LoGuidice, LLP will investigate your accident, identify all liable parties, and pursue the compensation you deserve under New York law. Contact us today to learn more.
FAQs
How long do I have to file a bus accident claim?
Deadlines vary. Claims against government agencies often require a Notice of Claim within 90 days. Other personal injury claims may have longer time limits.
Can I sue if another driver caused the bus accident?
Yes. If a third-party driver caused or contributed to the crash, you may pursue a claim against that driver in addition to any claims involving the bus operator.
What compensation is available after a bus accident?
Compensation may include medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and long-term care costs, depending on the severity of your injuries.