Your Public Transportation Accident Advocate

At Roth & Khalife LLP, we understand the complexities and challenges of public transportation accident cases in New York City. Whether you’ve been injured on a bus, subway, ferry, or other forms of public transit, our experienced attorneys are here to fight for the compensation you deserve. Navigating claims against transit authorities can be daunting, but with our in-depth knowledge of personal injury law and a track record of success, we’ll stand by your side every step of the way. Contact Roth & Khalife LLP today for a free consultation and let us help you secure the justice and recovery you need.

Public Transportation Accidents We Cover

At Roth & Khalife LLP, we represent clients injured in a wide range of public transportation accidents. New York City’s extensive transit systems are vital for millions of residents and visitors, but when accidents occur, they can lead to severe injuries and devastating consequences. Our experienced attorneys are well-versed in handling cases involving the following types of public transportation accidents:

• Subway Accidents: Derailments, platform injuries, door malfunctions, and accidents caused by operator negligence.
• Bus Accidents: Collisions with other vehicles, pedestrian accidents, falls due to abrupt stops, and unsafe boarding or exiting conditions.
• Taxi and Rideshare Accidents: Injuries involving yellow cabs, rideshare vehicles, and passenger negligence.
• Ferry and Water Taxi Accidents: Incidents resulting from unsafe vessel conditions, operator errors, or lack of proper safety measures.
• Train Accidents: Injuries from derailments, track malfunctions, or inadequate maintenance on commuter rail lines like the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) or Metro-North.
• Paratransit Vehicle Accidents: Injuries sustained while using transportation services designed for individuals with disabilities, including negligent driving or improper equipment handling.

No matter the type of public transit involved, we have the expertise to investigate the cause of your accident, identify the responsible parties, and build a strong case for your claim. Our priority is to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve for medical expenses, lost wages, pain, and suffering.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a public transportation accident, contact Roth & Khalife LLP today to discuss your legal options.

Common Causes of Public Transportation Accidents

Public transportation accidents can occur for various reasons, often stemming from negligence or unsafe conditions. At Roth & Khalife LLP, we meticulously investigate every case to determine the root cause and hold the responsible parties accountable. Some of the most common causes of public transportation accidents include:

1. Driver or Operator Negligence: Distracted driving, fatigue, speeding, or failure to follow traffic laws can lead to serious accidents involving buses, trains, and other transit vehicles.
2. Poor Maintenance: Failing to properly maintain vehicles, tracks, or equipment can result in mechanical failures, derailments, or unsafe conditions for passengers.
3. Inadequate Training: Transit operators who lack sufficient training may make critical errors, putting passengers and others on the road at risk.
4. Hazardous Road or Track Conditions: Poorly maintained roads, icy surfaces, debris, or faulty rail systems can contribute to accidents.
5. Overcrowding: Overloaded buses, subways, or ferries can lead to injuries from falls, inadequate safety measures, or compromised vehicle handling.
6. Third-Party Negligence: Collisions with other vehicles or accidents caused by construction crews, pedestrians, or cyclists can also play a role in public transportation incidents.

Understanding the cause of your accident is critical to building a strong legal claim. At Roth & Khalife LLP, we work with skilled investigators and experts to uncover the facts and identify all liable parties.

If you’ve been injured in a public transportation accident, don’t wait to seek legal help. Contact Roth & Khalife LLP for a free consultation to protect your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve.

Who Is Liable in a Public Transportation Accident?

Determining liability in a public transportation accident can be complex, as multiple parties may share responsibility for the injuries caused. We carefully evaluate the circumstances of each case to identify all liable parties and ensure they are held accountable. Potentially liable parties in a public transportation accident may include:

• Public Transit Agencies: Agencies like the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) or New York City Transit may be liable if the accident resulted from operator negligence, inadequate training, or poor vehicle or infrastructure maintenance.
• Bus, Train, or Ferry Operators: Individual operators may bear responsibility for accidents caused by distracted driving, speeding, or other negligent behaviors.
• Private Transit Companies: If a privately owned transportation company provides the service, they may be liable for accidents resulting from operator negligence or failure to maintain their fleet.
• Third Parties: Other drivers, pedestrians, cyclists, or construction crews can contribute to public transportation accidents and may share liability.
• Vehicle or Equipment Manufacturers: If a defective part or equipment failure contributed to the accident, the manufacturer or supplier could be held responsible.

Navigating the legal process to determine liability can be especially challenging in cases involving public entities due to specific regulations and filing deadlines. Our team at Roth & Khalife LLP has extensive experience handling claims against both private companies and government agencies.

How a Public Transportation Accident Lawyer Can Help

Our experienced attorneys understand the unique challenges that arise when seeking compensation for injuries sustained on buses, trains, subways, taxis, ride-sharing services, and other forms of public transportation.

Comprehensive Case Evaluation

When you’ve been injured in a public transportation accident, our first priority is to conduct a thorough investigation of your case. We meticulously gather evidence, interview witnesses, and analyze accident reports to build a strong foundation for your claim. Public transportation accidents often involve multiple parties, including transit authorities, government entities, private companies, and individual operators, making these cases particularly complex.

Identifying Liable Parties

Unlike typical vehicle accidents, public transportation incidents can involve intricate liability issues. Our legal team has the expertise to identify all potentially responsible parties, which may include municipal transit systems, private transportation companies, vehicle manufacturers, maintenance contractors, or individual drivers. We understand the nuanced regulations governing public transportation and use this knowledge to pursue maximum compensation for our clients.

Navigating Government Claims

Many public transportation systems are operated by government entities, which means filing a claim requires navigating strict procedural requirements and shorter statutes of limitation. Roth & Khalife LLP has extensive experience handling claims against government-operated transit systems, ensuring that critical deadlines are met and your legal rights are protected from the very beginning of your case.

Comprehensive Damage Recovery

Our attorneys work diligently to secure comprehensive compensation for your injuries. This includes medical expenses, lost wages, rehabilitation costs, pain and suffering, and potential long-term care needs. We understand that the impact of a public transportation accident extends far beyond immediate medical treatment and fight to ensure our clients are fully compensated for their total damages.

Negotiation and Litigation Expertise

Insurance companies and transit authorities often attempt to minimize their liability in public transportation accident cases. Our lawyers are skilled negotiators who understand the tactics used to reduce settlements. We prepare every case as if it will go to trial, which gives us significant leverage in negotiations. When a fair settlement cannot be reached, we are prepared to aggressively represent our clients in court.

Personalized Legal Support

At Roth & Khalife LLP, we recognize that each public transportation accident is unique. We provide personalized legal support, keeping you informed throughout the entire process and offering compassionate guidance during what is often a challenging time. Our commitment is to not only seek the compensation you deserve but to help you navigate the recovery process with dignity and respect.

Compensation You May Be Entitled To

Victims of public transportation accidents can face significant financial and personal challenges in the aftermath of their injuries. At Roth & Khalife LLP, we understand the comprehensive range of damages that can result from these traumatic incidents. Our experienced attorneys work diligently to ensure that our clients receive full and fair compensation for all aspects of their losses.

Medical Expenses

Compensation for medical expenses encompasses far more than just immediate hospital bills. We pursue recovery for all current and future medical treatments related to your injuries, including emergency room care, surgical procedures, diagnostic tests, rehabilitation, physical therapy, medications, medical equipment, and ongoing specialist treatments. For severe injuries that may require long-term or lifelong care, we carefully calculate projected medical costs to protect your future financial security.

Lost Wages and Earning Capacity

Transportation accident injuries can dramatically impact your ability to work and earn a living. Our attorneys seek compensation for both immediate lost wages and potential future earning capacity. This includes recovery for time missed from work during treatment and recovery, as well as compensation for reduced earning potential if your injuries prevent you from returning to your previous occupation or require you to work in a reduced capacity.

Pain and Suffering

The physical and emotional trauma of a public transportation accident extends beyond measurable economic damages. Compensation for pain and suffering addresses the physical pain, emotional distress, anxiety, depression, and overall diminished quality of life resulting from your injuries. We work to ensure that these profound personal impacts are fully recognized and appropriately compensated.

Property Damage

In addition to personal injuries, we help clients recover costs for damaged personal property. This can include clothing, electronic devices, personal items, and any other possessions destroyed or damaged during the accident. Our thorough approach ensures that no aspect of your loss goes unaddressed.

Rehabilitation and Adaptive Equipment

Serious injuries may require extensive rehabilitation and potentially adaptive equipment to help you regain independence. Compensation can cover physical therapy, occupational therapy, psychological counseling, mobility aids, home modifications, and specialized equipment necessary to accommodate your injuries.

Loss of Consortium

In cases of severe injuries, we may also pursue compensation for loss of consortium, which addresses the impact of injuries on personal relationships and family dynamics. This can include compensation for the loss of companionship, support, and intimate relationships resulting from your injuries.

Punitive Damages

In cases involving extreme negligence or intentional misconduct, we may pursue punitive damages. These damages are designed to punish the responsible party and deter similar future conduct, particularly in instances of gross negligence or systemic safety failures within transportation systems.

Special Considerations for Public Transportation Claims

Public transportation accident claims often involve unique complexities, including shorter filing deadlines and specific procedural requirements when suing government entities. Our attorneys have extensive experience navigating these intricate legal landscapes, ensuring that no potential avenue of compensation is overlooked.

What To Do After a Public Transportation Accident

If you’ve been involved in a public transportation accident, taking the right steps can protect your health and strengthen your legal claim. Here’s what to do:

1. Seek Medical Attention Immediately: Your health and safety should be your top priority. Even if injuries seem minor, seek medical evaluation to document your condition and rule out hidden injuries.
2. Report the Accident: Notify the transit operator, bus driver, or another responsible authority about the incident. Ensure that an official report is filed, as this will be critical evidence in your case.
3. Document the Scene: If possible, take photos or videos of the accident scene, your injuries, and any contributing factors such as unsafe conditions or damaged equipment. Collect contact information from witnesses and fellow passengers.
4. Keep Records: Save all medical records, bills, and proof of lost wages. Maintain any communications with insurance companies, public transit agencies, or other parties involved.
5. Avoid Making Statements: Be cautious when speaking with transit officials, insurance representatives, or other involved parties. Avoid admitting fault or making speculative comments about the accident.
6. Consult an Experienced Attorney: Public transportation accidents often involve multiple parties and complex regulations. At Roth & Khalife LLP, we can guide you through the process, investigate the cause of the accident, and help you pursue the compensation you deserve.

Taking these steps promptly can significantly impact the outcome of your claim. If you or a loved one has been injured in a public transportation accident, contact Roth & Khalife LLP for a free consultation. Let us handle the legal challenges while you focus on recovery.

Your Path to Justice Starts Here

At Roth & Khalife LLP, we understand that a public transportation accident can be a life-altering experience, leaving you overwhelmed, injured, and unsure of your next steps. Our dedicated team of public transportation accident lawyers is committed to providing compassionate, aggressive, and personalized legal representation. We take the burden of legal complexity off your shoulders, allowing you to focus on your recovery while we fight tirelessly to protect your rights and secure the compensation you deserve. Don’t navigate this challenging journey alone – contact Roth & Khalife LLP today for a free, confidential consultation, and let us be your advocates in seeking justice and healing.

Public Transportation Accident Lawyer FAQs

1. What should I do immediately after a public transportation accident?

Seek medical attention, report the accident to the transit authority, gather evidence, and contact an experienced attorney to protect your rights.

2. Who can be held liable for a public transportation accident?

Liability may rest with transit agencies, operators, private companies, vehicle manufacturers, or third parties like other drivers or pedestrians.

3. Can I file a claim against a government transit agency?

Yes, but claims against government agencies have specific rules and deadlines. It’s essential to act quickly and consult a lawyer familiar with public transit laws.

4. What damages can I recover after a public transportation accident?

You may recover compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages related to your injuries.

5. What is the statute of limitations for filing a public transportation accident claim in New York?

The time limit varies, especially when government entities are involved. Claims against government agencies often have a shorter deadline, sometimes as little as 90 days to file a notice of claim.

6. Do I need an attorney to handle my public transportation accident claim?

Yes, an experienced attorney can navigate the complexities of filing claims against transit agencies and ensure you receive fair compensation.

7. What evidence is needed to prove my case?

Key evidence includes medical records, accident reports, witness statements, photos or videos of the scene, and proof of damages.

8. Can I still recover compensation if I was partially at fault?

Yes, New York follows a comparative negligence rule, which means you can recover damages reduced by your percentage of fault.

9. What if the transit operator denies responsibility for the accident?

Your attorney can investigate the case, gather evidence, and challenge their denial to build a strong claim on your behalf.

10. How much does it cost to hire Roth & Khalife LLP for my case?

We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing upfront, and we only get paid if we secure compensation for you.