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What to do if you’re involved in an MTA bus accident
Getting into an accident with an MTA bus can be a traumatic experience. Whether you were a passenger, pedestrian, or driver of another vehicle, it’s important to know your legal rights and options. If you’ve been injured, you may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. Hiring an experienced MTA bus accident lawyer can help you navigate the legal system and maximize your recovery.
Introduction
The Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) is one of the largest public transit systems in the world, serving millions of people in New York City and surrounding areas. Unfortunately, accidents involving MTA buses are not uncommon. In 2019, there were over 2,800 bus accidents in New York City, resulting in thousands of injuries and several deaths.
If you’ve been involved in an MTA bus accident, it’s crucial to take immediate steps to protect your health and legal rights. This article will provide an overview of what to do if you’re in an accident with an MTA bus, how to find a qualified lawyer, and the advantages and disadvantages of pursuing legal action.
What is an MTA bus accident lawyer?
An MTA bus accident lawyer is a legal professional who specializes in representing clients who have been involved in accidents with MTA buses. These lawyers have extensive knowledge of the laws and regulations that apply to public transportation systems and can help clients navigate the complex legal process. MTA bus accident lawyers can assist with a variety of legal issues, including filing insurance claims, negotiating settlements, and representing clients in court.
Advantages of hiring an MTA bus accident lawyer
1. Knowledge and experience
MTA bus accident lawyers have a deep understanding of the laws and regulations that apply to public transit systems. They have experience working with insurance companies, negotiating settlements, and representing clients in court. This expertise can be invaluable in pursuing your legal claim and maximizing your recovery.
2. Guidance and support
Dealing with the aftermath of an MTA bus accident can be overwhelming and stressful. An experienced lawyer can provide guidance and support throughout the legal process, helping you understand your options and making sure your rights are protected. Your lawyer can also handle communications with insurance companies, medical providers, and other parties involved in your case.
3. Improved chances of success
Studies show that accident victims who hire lawyers are more likely to receive higher settlements than those who handle their cases on their own. This is because lawyers have the skills and resources to build a strong case and negotiate effectively on their clients’ behalf. By hiring an MTA bus accident lawyer, you increase your chances of getting a fair and just outcome.
Disadvantages of hiring an MTA bus accident lawyer
1. Cost
One of the biggest disadvantages of hiring a lawyer is the cost. Most lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, which means they take a percentage of your settlement if you win. While this can be a great option for people who can’t afford to pay a lawyer upfront, it can also cut into your recovery. Additionally, some lawyers may charge additional fees or expenses, such as filing fees, expert witness fees, or travel expenses.
2. Time commitment
Preparing and pursuing an MTA bus accident case can be a lengthy process. You may need to meet with your lawyer multiple times, gather evidence, and participate in legal proceedings. This can be time-consuming and may take away from other important aspects of your life, such as work or family obligations.
3. Uncertainty
While hiring a lawyer can improve your chances of success, there are no guarantees. The outcome of your case depends on a variety of factors, including the strength of your evidence, the quality of your legal representation, and the decisions of judges and juries. It’s important to have realistic expectations and be prepared for the possibility of an unsatisfactory outcome.
MTA bus accident lawyer FAQs
Question |
Answer |
|---|---|
What should I do if I’m in an MTA bus accident? |
If you’re in an MTA bus accident, your first priority should be to seek medical attention for yourself and others who are injured. Call 911 immediately and report the accident to the police. Do your best to gather information about the bus driver, passengers, witnesses, and any other vehicles or pedestrians involved. Take pictures and videos of the scene and any visible injuries or property damage. Contact an MTA bus accident lawyer as soon as possible to discuss your legal options. |
How do I find a good MTA bus accident lawyer? |
One way to find a qualified MTA bus accident lawyer is to ask for referrals from friends, family members, or other lawyers in your community. You can also search online for lawyers who specialize in bus accident cases and read reviews from past clients. Look for lawyers who have experience handling MTA bus accident cases, a track record of success, and a commitment to client service and communication. |
What kinds of damages can I recover from an MTA bus accident? |
If you’ve been injured in an MTA bus accident, you may be entitled to compensation for a variety of damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, property damage, and other economic and non-economic losses. |
How long do I have to file a claim after an MTA bus accident? |
In New York, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim is generally three years from the date of the accident. However, there may be exceptions or shorter time limits if the MTA or other government agency is involved. It’s important to consult with an MTA bus accident lawyer as soon as possible to make sure you don’t miss any important deadlines. |
What if I was partially at fault for the accident? |
Under New York’s comparative negligence law, you can still recover damages even if you were partially at fault for the accident. However, your damages may be reduced in proportion to your degree of fault. For example, if you were found to be 25% at fault for the accident, your damages would be reduced by 25%. An experienced MTA bus accident lawyer can help you navigate these complex legal issues and fight for your right to maximum compensation. |
Can I still file a claim if the accident happened a long time ago? |
Generally, you have three years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim in New York. However, there may be exceptions or shorter time limits if the MTA or other government entity is involved. It’s important to consult with an MTA bus accident lawyer as soon as possible to make sure you don’t miss any important deadlines. |
What if the bus driver was drunk or under the influence of drugs? |
If the bus driver was intoxicated or under the influence of drugs at the time of the accident, you may be entitled to punitive damages in addition to compensatory damages. Punitive damages are intended to punish the at-fault party and deter similar conduct in the future. An experienced MTA bus accident lawyer can help you assess your case and seek the maximum amount of damages possible. |
What if the bus driver was speeding or violating traffic laws? |
If the bus driver was driving recklessly or violating traffic laws at the time of the accident, you may be entitled to compensatory and punitive damages. An experienced MTA bus accident lawyer can help you investigate the accident, gather evidence, and build a strong case for maximum recovery. |
What if the accident was caused by a mechanical failure? |
If the accident was caused by a mechanical failure or other defect in the bus, you may be able to pursue a product liability claim against the manufacturer. Product liability claims can be complex, but an experienced MTA bus accident lawyer can help you assess your case and fight for your rights. |
What if I was a passenger on the bus? |
If you were a passenger on the bus at the time of the accident, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries and other damages. The fact that you were a passenger does not necessarily mean that the accident was your fault. An experienced MTA bus accident lawyer can help you determine who was at fault and pursue your legal claim. |
What if I was a pedestrian hit by an MTA bus? |
If you were a pedestrian hit by an MTA bus, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries and other damages. Pedestrian accidents can be particularly devastating, as pedestrians are especially vulnerable to serious injuries and fatalities. An experienced MTA bus accident lawyer can help you assess your case and fight for your rights. |
Can I sue the MTA? |
As a public entity, the MTA is generally immune from lawsuits under New York law. However, there are exceptions, such as when the MTA’s negligence or wrongdoing causes an accident. An experienced MTA bus accident lawyer can help you assess your case and determine whether you have a viable claim against the MTA or other parties. |
What if the bus accident caused a wrongful death? |
If you’ve lost a loved one in an MTA bus accident, you may be entitled to compensation for your loss. Wrongful death claims can be complex and emotional, but an experienced MTA bus accident lawyer can help you pursue justice and hold the responsible parties accountable. |
Conclusion
MTA bus accidents can be life-changing events that require careful navigation of the legal system. If you’ve been injured in an MTA bus accident, it’s important to consult with an experienced lawyer who can help you understand your rights and options. While hiring a lawyer can have its disadvantages, the advantages of having skilled legal representation often outweigh the costs and risks. By taking the time to research your options and find a qualified MTA bus accident lawyer, you can increase your chances of a successful recovery and move forward with your life.
Closing
This article is not legal advice and should not be relied on as such. The information presented here is for general informational purposes only and may not represent the most current legal developments. You should consult with an experienced MTA bus accident lawyer for advice specific to your case. The use of this website or communication with the author does not create an attorney-client relationship.
