New York City Bus and Subway Accidents: MTA

February 27, 2012

New York City Bus and Subway Accidents: MTA

Whether they take the train, subway or bus, New Yorkers put a great deal of trust into the New York Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA). They expect to get where they need to go -- work, school, the grocery store -- safely and on time. They expect that the MTA will frequently inspect trains and buses, and take other measures to ensure riders' safety.

What happens when that trust is broken, when a bus or train accident causes serious injury?

While the New York City subway and bus systems are generally safe, accidents still happen. In 2008, 14 people died in New York City subway and railroad accidents. Many more were injured. The MTA must often respond to personal injury claims from people who were hurt by MTA buses and trains.

Causes of MTA Accidents

According to the MTA, 68 percent of all bus and subway injuries in 2011 were caused by slip and falls or trip and falls. Many other injuries were not directly caused by bus accidents or train collisions, but were the result of hazardous conditions. For example, in 2011, vehicle collisions were responsible for only 29 percent of injuries involving MTA buses.

In addition to bus crashes and subway accidents, the MTA may be responsible for hazardous conditions on their property, such as:
-Large gaps between subway trains and platforms that are not clearly marked
-Snow, ice and liquid on the floors of busses, trains, subway platforms and bus stops
-Poorly maintained steps
-Defective subway doors
-Assaults on poorly-lit platforms or bus stops

Personal Injury Claims Against the MTA

Has an MTA bus hit you? Did you slip and fall at an MTA bus stop or subway station? Was your limb caught in a subway door? Did a sudden stop cause you injury?

No matter what caused your New York MTA accident, act quickly to speak with a New York personal injury attorney. You may be able to recover compensation for your medical bills, pain and suffering, lost wages, rehabilitation and other damages.

Claims against municipal authorities such as the MTA are different from other personal injury claims, with specific rules and very strict timelines. A lawyer can help ensure that you file your claim on time and with the right information.

Article provided by Roy S. Hiller
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