New York City is no stranger to severe road accidents. One of the usual suspects involved in such traffic crashes is buses. The official data reports several bus accidents occur in New York annually. Imagine the extent of damage these heavy vehicles cause each year. Thankfully, New York laws protect the victims when it comes to compensation for such accidents. It’s just a matter of knowing what rights protect you and how to use them to get justice for your injuries.
If you’ve been involved in a bus accident in New York, contact a seasoned lawyer and file a claim to get compensation. Who will be liable to pay you for your damages in a bus crash? Read on to know.
Who Is Liable for Injuries in a Bus Accident?
If you are injured while riding a New York City bus, you may be entitled to compensation for your losses. The question of who is liable for the injuries depends on the circumstances surrounding the incident and whether the city or a private operator owned the bus. Ensure that you speak to an NYC bus accident lawyer when you’ve been involved in a crash.
If the bus is owned and operated by the City of New York, then the city is liable for any injuries sustained by a passenger. This includes medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. The city may also be responsible for property damage if a negligent driver caused the incident.
If the bus is owned and operated by a private operator, then the company is liable for any injuries sustained by a passenger. In either case, the injured person can file a claim against the city or private operator. The claim must be filed within 90 days of the incident and provide information about the crash, including a detailed account of the same and any medical bills and other expenses that the victim incurred.
If the city or private operator is proven liable for the injuries, they may have to compensate the victim for all the damages, provided that they can prove the damages.
No matter who is liable for the injuries, it is essential to seek medical attention immediately after the incident. This will ensure that potential legal claims are properly documented and that the injured person receives the best medical care. Document any evidence that you can use to get the maximum settlement. This includes photos, videos, statements of witnesses, doctor’s reports, salary slips, pay stubs, invoices, and more. You can get assistance from a truck accident lawyer to know what it takes to win a favorable claim.
What to Do When You’ve Been in a Bus Accident in New York
Regardless of the guilty party, you are owed compensation; to recover that, you need to know your legal rights. This is where you’d need a pro on board. It’s crucial to contact an experienced personal injury attorney as soon as possible. They can advise filing a claim and help ensure that any potential legal claims are properly handled.