How a Queens Bus Accident Lawyer Strengthens Your Case in NYC

Being involved in a transportation accident is always a frightening experience. These incidents can lead to lasting physical and emotional trauma. Public transportation accidents, however, present a unique type of fear. When you’re seated on a city bus, for instance, you have no control over how the driver navigates the vehicle. Trusting public transit to get you safely to your destination is a daily routine for many—especially in bustling cities like New York. According to the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA), over 340 million people used a city bus in 2023. With the number of people riding buses annually, it’s no surprise that issues arise during some trips. If you sustain an injury in a public transportation accident in NYC, let a Queens bus accident lawyer like those at Shaevitz & Shaevitz secure justice for you!

What Causes a Bus Accident?

Like all modes of transportation, there are numerous causes of crashes and accidents. Buses, however, carry threats that other modes of transport, like cars or bicycles, do not. Common causes of bus accidents include:

• Abrupt stops or turns: All vehicles can make sudden stops or turns. But when buses do so, it’s more dangerous. People often move on the bus, hang onto the handrails, or wait by the door. When a bus comes to a sudden stop or takes a sharp turn, standing passengers can lose their balance, potentially falling and sustaining injuries.
• Fatigued driving: Just as people may drive while sleep-deprived, bus drivers can too. Because they are on a busy schedule, bus drivers are more likely to be fatigued on the job. This can have dangerous consequences if they lose focus or fall asleep at the wheel.
• Slippery roads: Ice and snow affect all vehicles, including buses. However, due to its larger size, a sliding bus can cause much more damage.
• Moving violations: Some areas have designated bus lanes. When a bus driver strays from their assigned lane, it can create hazards for other drivers on the road. Even when changing lanes or turning, bus drivers must be extra careful and aware of their surroundings, as they have larger blind spots than other vehicles.
• Excessive speed: Surpassing the speed limit is always dangerous, as it easily leads to accidents. Due to their larger size and length, city buses need to be especially careful about going too fast.
• Poor bus maintenance: The city (and its employees) are responsible for maintaining all public modes of transportation. If a bus is not properly maintained, accidents that could have been avoided may occur.

How Will a Queens Bus Accident Lawyer Aid in Your Case?

After an auto accident, your priority should be recovery. However, if your crash involves disputes over liability, insurance claims, or compensation, managing these issues on your own can be overwhelming. That’s when hiring a Queens bus accident lawyer, like the team at Shaevitz & Shaevitz, can make all the difference.

An expert makes a big difference when facing a complex legal case. Your attorney will help you collect evidence, file paperwork, and handle communication with the insurance company.

In New York State, we operate under the no-fault rule, which states that all parties in an accident (with insurance) can receive compensation, regardless of who is found responsible. To receive these benefits from your Personal Injury Protection (PIP) insurance, you must file a no-fault claim within 30 days of the collision. It is important to contact a lawyer as soon as possible, as they can file this claim for you.

In New York State, everyone who owns a car is required to have PIP insurance of at least $50,000. After a car crash, the insurance of the vehicle you’re in pays for your no-fault benefits. Following a bus accident, if you or someone you live with has car insurance, that car’s PIP insurance will pay for your no-fault benefits. If you are in a bus accident and don’t own a car or live with someone who does, the bus company or the city is responsible for your no-fault benefits. However, you only have 90 days after the accident to file a claim against the city.

If your medical bills and other financial burdens surpass what your PIP insurance provides, or you meet the serious injury threshold, you may sue the parties responsible for the accident. No matter what your case looks like, our qualified legal experts will collect evidence and defend you in court or settlement negotiations.

Secure Justice for Your Bus Accident With a Free Consultation Today!

Vehicle crashes are frightening, and public transportation accidents are no different. After an accident, you should be able to focus on rest and recovery. Fortunately, bus accident lawyers like those at Shaevitz & Shaevitz dedicate their time and efforts to secure fair compensation for you. Schedule a free consultation today to learn more about how our lawyers can help strengthen your case!

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