White Plains Bus Accident Lawyers

Common Causes of Bus Accidents

There may be multiple contributing factors to a bus accident. Some of the most common causes include:

• Driver inattention
• Distracted driving
• Driver fatigue
• Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
• Speeding
• Aggressive or reckless driving
• Operator inexperience
• Mechanical malfunction

Our attorneys will conduct a thorough, independent investigation to determine who can be held responsible for your injuries. In some cases, there may be multiple defendants that can be held liable. We will subpoena all relevant evidence in your case, including the driving logs and safety record of the driver. Contact our office immediately to get your bus accident claim started.

Who Can Be Held Liable In a Bus Accident 

Bus accidents in New York may have one or more defendants. Common defendants include:

• The Bus Driver: Poorly trained bus drivers, bus drivers who are distracted, or just a single moment of negligence can cost someone their life. Unfortunately, some drivers even drink and drive. The bus driver may be legally responsible for your injuries.
• Drivers of Other Vehicles: If another driver causes the crash or drives in a way that is irresponsible and causes the bus driver to wreck the bus, they may be legally responsible.
• Bus Companies: If you were riding on a privately owned bus, the bus company may be legally responsible. Bus companies have a legal obligation to keep their buses in proper mechanical condition.
• State of New York: If you are on a bus owned and operated by the Metropolitan Transportation Authority, they could be named as a defendant. However, it is important to note that suing a state agency can be difficult. Our attorneys can help you determine if MTA may be named as a defendant.

New York Bus Accident Facts & Statistics

The Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) is one of the largest transportation systems in the country, providing service throughout New York City, New York State, and Connecticut. According to their website, they have over 5,900 vehicles in their bus fleet with over 200 local bus routes. On an average weekday, over 1.7 million people ride the bus in New York City with the busiest bus routes located in Manhattan, the Bronx, and Brooklyn.

• Last year, the MTA reported an 11 percent increase in the number of “bus customer accidents” to the New York Post. Data provided by the MTA to the Post indicated that many customers were injured by “throwing movements” and slips or falls. Injuries from bus collisions also increased slightly from 1.2 percent to 1.8 percent, as noted in the article.
• In 2018, the Post reported on the high number of MTA buses that were involved in collisions. Over a three-year period, buses were involved in over 20,000 “crashes, collisions and other mishaps.”
• In addition to MTA buses, the Westchester County Department of Transportation operates the Bee-Line. According to their website, this regional bus system serves over 27 million riders each year, including providing transportation throughout the county to schools, jobs, and recreation. Local buses have been involved in a number of accidents, including a multiple-vehicle collision that left two people injured, as reported by News 12 Westchester.
• One of the deadliest bus accidents in the area involved a tour bus that crashed on Interstate-95 after returning from a Connecticut casino. The driver, as noted in reporting by The New York Times, may have been traveling at a high rate of speed when he says he lost control of the vehicle after a tractor-trailer “clipped” the bus. The bus collided with a guard rail before slamming into a support pole, killing 14 people.

Whether you were a passenger, occupant of another vehicle, pedestrian, or bicyclist, we can help. If your injuries are caused by a bus driver’s negligent or careless act, you deserve compensation. Call our office or fill out our online contact form to discuss your case with an experienced White Plains bus accident lawyer today.

Insurance and Bus Accidents in New York

Bus accidents in New York, particularly if they are owned and operated by MTA, will likely result in an insurance company contacting you. They want to settle your claim for as little as possible. Do not sign anything from any insurance company until you talk to us.

How an Attorney Can Help You With Your Bus Accident Claim

Navigating a bus accident claim can be complex, especially with multiple potentially liable parties. An experienced attorney can:

1. Investigate the Accident: Your lawyer will thoroughly investigate the circumstances of the bus accident, gathering evidence, reviewing police reports, and speaking with witnesses to determine who was at fault.
2. Determine Liability: Bus accidents often involve multiple parties, including the bus driver, bus company, and other drivers. Your attorney will identify all responsible parties to maximize your compensation.
3. Handle Negotiations: Dealing with insurance companies can be overwhelming. Your lawyer will negotiate with insurers on your behalf to ensure that you are not pressured into accepting a low settlement offer.
4. Represent You in Court: If necessary, your attorney will be ready to take your case to trial to secure the compensation you deserve for your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
5. Provide Legal Guidance: Throughout the entire process, your attorney will offer advice and ensure that you understand your rights, helping you make informed decisions every step of the way.

Contact Our Attorneys Now About Your Bus Accident

When you suffer serious injuries, you may be unable to work or perform your normal routine. You need an attorney with a proven track record. At Denlea & Carton, we have recovered over $100 million in verdicts and settlements on behalf of injury victims. We are committed to providing you the aggressive, personalized representation you need to get the most money in your case.

If you are injured because of someone else’s negligence or wrongful act, contact our office to speak to a White Plains bus accident lawyer today. All consultations are 100% free and without obligation.

Call today at (914) 618-4579 or fill out our online contact form to speak with an attorney.