Bus Accident Attorneys in Yonkers, NY

From Investigation to Resolution: How Our Bus Accident Attorneys Help

Bus accident cases are often more complex than typical car accidents. Our experienced attorneys understand these complexities and provide the skilled support you need every step of the way:

Thorough Investigation

We'll gather evidence, identify liable parties, and consult with experts to build the strongest possible case.

Handling the Insurance Companies

We'll deal with aggressive insurers and protect you from lowball settlement offers.

Fighting for Your Rights in Court

If a fair settlement can't be reached, we're prepared to take your case to trial.

Maximizing Your Compensation

We understand the full range of damages you may be entitled to, including medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

Don't face the aftermath of a bus accident alone. Let us fight for compensation on your behalf while you recover.

We Handle All Types of Bus Accidents in Yonkers

Bus accidents take many forms, each with its own unique challenges. Our Yonkers bus accident attorneys have the knowledge and resources to handle a wide range of bus accident cases, including:

MTA and Bee-Line Bus Accidents

We understand the complexities of navigating claims against government entities.

School Bus Accidents

We're committed to protecting injured children and holding negligent parties accountable.

Tour and Charter Bus Accidents

These cases can involve multiple liable parties and require specific knowledge.

Private Bus Accidents

Whether it's a shuttle bus, church bus, or another private carrier, we'll fight for your rights.

No matter what type of bus accident you've been involved in, we have the experience to guide you through the legal process and explore every avenue for damages.

Get the Legal Help You Need Without Financial Risk

We understand the financial strain you may be facing after a bus accident. That's why we work on a contingency fee basis. This means:

• No Upfront Costs: You won't pay any fees to hire our attorneys.
• You Only Pay If We Win: Our fee is a percentage of the compensation we secure for you.
• Free Consultations: We offer free case evaluations to discuss your situation and legal options.

Don't let financial worries prevent you from getting the legal help you need. Contact us today to schedule your free consultation.

GET FREE CASE REVIEW

Types of Injuries Suffered in Bus Accidents

Accidents involving buses, due to their size and force of impact, often result in severe and life-altering injuries, including:

Brain Injuries

Even with safety features, bus accidents can cause concussions, skull fractures, and brain bleeds with long-term consequences.

Spinal Cord Injuries

The force of a bus accident can lead to severe spinal damage, potentially resulting in paralysis and other disabling complications.

Burn Injuries

Bus fires, though less common, can result in severe burns with long-term physical and emotional trauma.

Catastrophic Injuries

This includes a wide range of life-changing injuries like amputations, organ damage, and severe disfigurement.

Knee Injuries

The awkward positioning in bus seats can lead to ligament tears, dislocations, and other debilitating knee injuries.

Paralysis Injuries

Paralysis is a devastating consequence that can result from spinal cord injuries or other forms of nerve damage sustained in bus accidents.

Broken Bones

Fractures to arms, legs, ribs, and the pelvis are common in bus accidents and can require extensive rehabilitation.

& More

Unfortunately, this list is not exhaustive. Bus accidents can cause a wide range of other serious injuries.

It's crucial to seek immediate medical attention after a bus accident, even if you don't initially think your injuries are severe.

Can I File a Wrongful Death Lawsuit After a Bus Accident?

The sudden loss of a loved one in a bus accident is devastating. If negligence caused the accident, you may have the right to file a wrongful death lawsuit. This type of lawsuit can help you obtain money to offset:

• Medical and funeral expenses
• The loss of your loved one's income
• The emotional pain of your loss

Beginning a wrongful death lawsuit might seem daunting in the aftermath of your loved one’s passing. We’ll handle every aspect of your claim and support you and your family throughout the process. 

Preventable Tragedies: Common Causes of Bus Accidents in Yonkers

Bus accidents are often devastating due to the size of the vehicles and the presence of unrestrained passengers. The fact that many are preventable makes them even more tragic. Some of the most common causes of bus accidents in Yonkers include:

• Driver Error: Distracted driving, fatigue, speeding, and driving under the influence can all lead to catastrophic bus accidents.
• Bus Maintenance Issues: Poorly maintained brakes, tires, or other critical components can cause malfunctions and loss of control.
• Employer Expectations: Companies may pressure drivers to meet unrealistic schedules or cut corners on maintenance, increasing accident risks.
• Hazardous Road Conditions: Poor weather or road design can contribute to bus accidents, especially with larger vehicles.

It’s important to remember that more than one factor may have contributed to your accident. A thorough investigation can help your legal team pursue compensation in ways that increase your chances of full financial recovery. 

Bus Accident Liability: Who Can Be Held Responsible?

When our bus accident attorney investigates your case to identify the liable parties, they will consider the actions of the:

• Bus Driver: Drivers can be held liable for negligence, including distracted driving, speeding, or violating traffic laws.
• Bus Company: Companies may be responsible for negligent hiring practices, inadequate driver training, or improper bus maintenance.
• Government Entities: City or county agencies that provide transportation and maintain roads for safety may be held responsible for certain accidents.
• Bus Manufacturers: In rare cases, defective bus parts or design flaws may contribute to an accident, making the manufacturer liable.
• Other Drivers: If another motorist's negligence caused or contributed to the bus accident, they might share liability.

Determining liability in a bus accident is crucial for maximizing your compensation and holding all responsible parties accountable.

Bus Accident in Yonkers? Take These Steps to Protect Yourself

A bus accident can be a chaotic and overwhelming experience. It's crucial to take the right steps to protect your health, your legal rights, and your ability to secure compensation.

Seek Medical Attention

Even if your injuries seem minor, get a thorough medical evaluation; some serious injuries may not have obvious symptoms right away.

Report the Accident

Notify the bus driver and the police immediately, and obtain a copy of the official police report.

Gather Information

If possible, take photos of the scene, get contact information for witnesses, and note the bus company.

Do Not Sign Anything

Insurance adjusters may pressure you; don't sign any statements or releases without speaking to an attorney first.

Contact a Dedicated Bus Accident Lawyer

A lawyer will protect you from insurance company tactics and fight for full compensation.

Follow Your Treatment Plan and Keep Expense Record

This is crucial for your recovery and strengthens your case.

Remember, the sooner you seek legal advice, the better. An attorney can handle all communications and build a strong case on your behalf.

Types of Compensation You May Deserve After a Bus Accident

A bus accident can result in severe injuries, financial hardship, and significant disruption to your life. You may be entitled to compensation to help cover economic and non-economic losses. Economic losses might include:

• Medical Expenses: Costs related to hospitalization, surgeries, rehabilitation, medications, and ongoing care.
• Lost Wages: Income lost due to being unable to work during your recovery.
• Loss of Earning Capacity: If your injuries permanently reduce your ability to earn the same income, you may be compensated for this loss.

Non-economic losses are more difficult to quantify, but your attorney has experience with this process and can argue for the highest possible settlement. Losses that could be included in non-economic damages include:

• Pain and Suffering: Compensation for the physical pain and emotional distress caused by the accident and your injuries.
• Loss of Enjoyment of Life: Acknowledges how your injuries may limit your ability to participate in hobbies, activities, and relationships you once enjoyed.
• Other Intangible Losses: Depending on the severity of your case, this may include compensation for disfigurement, loss of consortium, and other hardships.

The amount of compensation you may be entitled to will depend on the severity of your injuries, the long-term consequences, and your financial losses. A seasoned bus accident attorney will fight to secure the maximum compensation possible to help you rebuild your life.

Understanding Time Limits for Filing a Bus Accident Claim in Yonkers

New York law sets strict deadlines, known as statutes of limitations, for filing lawsuits after a bus accident. These deadlines are crucial to protect your right to compensation.

General Deadline

In most bus accident cases, you have three years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit. If you miss this deadline, you may lose your right to seek compensation.

Certain exceptions apply in cases involving minors and government entities. Minors may have longer to file a claim because the statute of limitations does not begin until they turn 18. Deadlines can be much shorter if the bus involved in your accident was operated by a city, county, or other government entity. You'll need to file a notice of claim within a very limited timeframe.

Why You Shouldn't Wait

Even if the deadline seems far away, it's best to contact an attorney immediately. Here's why:

• Preserving Evidence: Evidence deteriorates over time, and witness memories fade.
• Building a Strong Case: Thorough investigations take time.
• Dealing with Complex Cases: Bus accidents often involve multiple liable parties, making your case more complex.

Don't risk losing your right to compensation. Contact our Yonkers bus accident lawyer today to discuss your case and protect your rights.

Navigating MTA vs. Private Bus Accidents: Differences in Your Legal Options

Bus accidents involving the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) present unique legal challenges compared to those involving private bus companies. Understanding these differences is crucial for protecting your rights and maximizing your compensation.

• Notice of Claim: When suing the MTA or another government entity, you must file a notice of claim very quickly, often within 90 days of the accident.
• Shorter Statute of Limitations: The time limit for filing a lawsuit against the MTA may be shorter than for private companies.
• Legal Complexities: Suing a government entity involves additional rules and procedural hurdles.

While lawsuits against private bus companies can still be complex, they are generally less procedurally strict than those against the MTA. These cases may involve:

• Tour bus companies
• School buses (sometimes operated by private companies)
• Airport shuttles
• Church or non-profit organization buses

Regardless of the type of bus involved, having a Yonkers bus accident attorney on your side is essential for securing the compensation you deserve.

What If the Bus Doesn't Have Enough Insurance? 

Unfortunately, some bus companies operate with inadequate insurance coverage. If you're seriously injured in an accident, the bus company's insurance may not be enough to fully cover your losses. However, there may be other avenues for compensation:

• Your Own Insurance: If you have uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage on your auto policy, it might extend to a bus accident, even if you were a pedestrian or cyclist.
• Multiple Liable Parties: A thorough investigation may identify other parties responsible for the accident, such as the bus driver, maintenance company, or even another driver involved in the accident.
• Lawsuits Against the Bus Company: In certain situations, you may be able to sue the bus company directly if their negligence caused the accident, even if their insurance limits are low.

Don't assume your options are limited if the bus company's insurance is insufficient. Contact us today for a free consultation.

What If I Was Partially at Fault for the Bus Accident?

Even if you were partially at fault for a bus accident in New York, you may still be entitled to compensation. This is due to the state's comparative negligence rule.

How Comparative Negligence Works

Under comparative negligence, your potential compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example:

If a jury finds you 25% at fault and your total damages are determined to be $100,000, you could still recover $75,000.

Why You Need an Attorney

Insurance companies often try to blame victims to reduce payouts. An experienced bus accident attorney will fight back against these tactics and work to minimize your assigned percentage of fault.

It's crucial to have an attorney assess your case to determine the potential impact of comparative negligence and fight for the maximum compensation you deserve, even if you believe you share some responsibility.

Are There Special Laws for Bus Accidents on the Parkways in Yonkers?

Bus accidents on parkways like the Bronx River Parkway, Saw Mill River Parkway, or the Hutchinson River Parkway can present unique legal challenges. Here's what you need to know:

• Restricted Use: Many parkways have restrictions on commercial vehicles, including buses; if a bus was operating illegally, this could strengthen your case.
• Potentially Liable Parties: Depending on the specifics, liable parties might include the bus company, the driver, and the government entity responsible for maintaining the parkway.
• In-Depth Knowledge: Navigating parkway accident cases requires specific knowledge of the laws and regulations governing these roadways.

It's crucial to consult with an attorney who understands the complexities of parkway accidents. Our attorneys can assess your situation and determine whether any special laws or regulations apply to your case.