A bizarre bus accident in New York City left at least 15 people injured earlier this month. 13 of those treated were passengers on the bus. The remaining two were city employees operating the sanitation truck that struck the bus. Initial reports indicate that there was also an automobile involved but the NYPD has yet to release the complete results of their crash investigation.
Reports show that rescue crews were called to the intersection of East 40th Street and Avenue D around 6:30 in the morning after witnesses called in the bus accident. Upon arrival, they found 13 victims with relatively minor injuries. Two additional victims suffered more severe injuries and were transported to a nearby hospital for treatment.
Eyewitnesses state that the bus was not moving at the time of the crash but it’s unclear whether the sanitation truck or the automobile driver caused that accident. Along with determining which vehicle caused the accident, it must also be determined whether the bus, although stopped, was parked legally and whether that factor played a role in the accident. These determinations will play an important role in getting the victims of this latest bus accident in New York City the financial compensation they deserve. Under the law, all at-fault parties can be held liable for the injuries sustained by these passengers.
Whichever operator is found to be at fault, including the city, the injured passengers will have valid claims for their pain and suffering, unpaid medical and hospital expenses and lost time from work, present and future. The injured passengers will also be entitled to no-fault benefits from the insurance company which insured bus if the passenger does not own a car, which will pay for health related expenses and lost time from work up to $2,000 a month.
If you’ve been injured while using any of the MTA’s bus services or privately owned motor coaches, it is important to contact an experienced New York City bus accident attorney immediately to protect your rights.