New York mass transit accidents can have a big impact

New York has a population of over eight million people, and that number is growing. The city continues to try to find new ways to transport people from one side of the city to the other. The subway system and the bus system are great ways to get around the city — especially for those on a budget.

The downside to this method of transportation is that people do not have any control over any accidents that may occur while riding these mass transportation methods. Some mass transit accidents have even caused serious injuries or fatalities.

State law provides that those injured in a mass transit accident have a limited window of time to report their claim. The time frame is 90 days from the incident which gives people a very limited time to act. If a bus or metro were to stop suddenly, many people could easily be injured by the sudden change in speed. People must make sure to check themselves out after a sudden stop, trip on stairs or other bus accident that could affect their health.

New York City Transit authority is the governing body for all mass transportation in the city. They are the responsible party if people have been injured or killed in a mass transit accident. Since the authority carries no-fault insurance, meaning there is no need to prove negligence after an accident has rendered a person injured. You could be covered for up to $50,000 for medical expenses and lost wages due to the injuries sustained on a New York subway or bus.

If injuries are more serious, like a spinal cord or brain injury, it may be in the injured person’s best interest to prove fault. This would play out like a regular negligence claim where proof would determine liability of the transit authority. This would require, at minimum, a full investigation and documentation of the person’s injury and costs. It may seem like a lot of work to file a claim, but it could be a life-saver in the long run after a mass transit accident.