People all over the city count on the MTA to safely get them from point A to point B. Generally, the MTA and its workers are responsible when it comes to the safety of others. However, unfortunately, buses and trains sometimes crash. Though these accidents are rarer than car accidents, when they do happen, they usually cause a lot of damage. This is why you must read on for more information if you were injured in a mass transit accident.

What are the most frequent causes of train accidents?

There are many different causes of train accidents in New York. However, most of them trace back to human negligence. Here are some of the most common causes of train accidents:

• Railroad employees operating under the influence of drugs or alcohol
• Driver failing to secure or release handbrakes
• Improper alignment of railroad switches
• Improperly using brakes
• Falling asleep
• Excessively speeding
• Directing crew members improperly
• Reckless pedestrians or conductors

There are also several different train accident factors that may not be a result of the driver or passengers themselves. These accidents generally lie in the hands of the manufacturer, maintenance crew, or employers. They are as follows:

• Cracks around bolt holes
• Broken welds
• Broken or dysfunctional switches
• Worn down rails
• Rusted tracks

What are the most prevalent causes of bus accidents in New York?

Bus accidents are even more common than train accidents, primarily because there are so many variables on the road, especially in the city. Here are some of the most common causes of bus accidents:

• Bus drivers under the influence of drugs and alcohol
• A bus driver who is texting and driving
• Bus fires
• Lack of seatbelts and fire extinguishers
• Dysfunctional escape hatches and doors
• Large blind spots
• Poor weather conditions
• Negligent road design
• Discharging of passengers on unsafe or poorly maintained roadways

How do I know if I am entitled to compensation?

If you have been injured due to another party’s negligence, there is a good chance you will be able to recover compensation. You should know, however, that filing a personal injury claim is a bit different when it is against the MTA. If you wish to file a claim against the MTA, you must file a Notice of Claim within 90 days of the accident. If you do not, you may not be entitled to compensation. Once you have filed your Notice of Claim, you must then file your claim within 1 year and 90 days of the accident. 

Contact our New York firm

Our entire legal team is dedicated to providing the advice you need and the personalized attention you deserve. Call 212-421-0300 or fill out our contact form to schedule a free consultation with a New York City personal injury lawyer.