.png)
Millions of New Yorkers rely on the MTA each year to get from point A to point B. Most of us never even consider the possibility that an accident might happen during our travels, but potential hazards are always lurking beneath the surface. These hazards became blatantly clear in January of 2021, when a bus veered off the road and dangled from the side of an overpass. It was a shocking moment for the MTA, which publicly strives to be the “safest transportation system in the nation.”
Seven passengers and the driver of the bus were injured, and first responders stated that the injuries were consistent with falls from about 50 feet. The 55-year-old driver was simply unable to navigate the roadway properly. No other vehicles were involved, and no arrests were made. However, the driver was given a breathalyzer test, and he subsequently refused a second drug and alcohol test at the hospital. Along with these troubling issues, the driver was likely going too fast before he missed a left-hand turn completely and went over the side of the overpass.
What should you do if you have suffered injuries as a result of using the MTA? How can you sue the MTA for damages? How much compensation can you receive? How do circumstances change if there is evidence of reckless or egregious negligence committed by an MTA employee? All of these questions can be easily answered by a qualified, experienced personal injury attorney in New York. These legal experts can help you fight for a fair, adequate settlement.
The Statute of Limitations For Suing the MTA
In many ways, suing the MTA for injuries is the same as taking legal action against any other party. That being said, there are many unique considerations you need to take into account before moving forward. Perhaps the most urgent issue involves the statute of limitations. According to the statute of limitations in New York, you will only have 90 days to file your claim after suffering your injury. In contrast, the statute of limitations for the vast majority of other injuries is three years.
When is a Driver or Operator Negligent?
In some cases, mechanical errors or “faultless” injuries occur on the MTA. No one can really be singled out for blame, but plaintiffs can still receive compensation. On the other hand, there are some cases where drivers, operators, or other MTA employees were clearly behaving in a negligent or reckless manner. For example, a driver may have failed to obey traffic signs, speed limits, and other rules of the road. Drivers may also be negligent if they were intoxicated while on the job.
Enlist the Help of a Qualified, Experienced Personal Injury Attorney Today
If you have been searching for an experienced personal injury attorney in New York, look no further than The Glassman Law Group. This firm has a wealth of experience with a variety of personal injury claims and lawsuits, and we can help you receive compensation after suffering injuries on the MTA.