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 In Blog, NYCTA, Subway, Train Accident

Establishing Liability in NYCTA Accidents

When you are injured in an accident involving the New York City Transit Authority (NYCTA), determining who is responsible is crucial. The NYCTA operates public transportation throughout New York, including buses, subways, and trains. Accidents may occur for various reasons, including driver error, equipment malfunctions, or poor maintenance of NYCTA property.

To hold the NYCTA accountable, you must prove that the agency or one of its employees was negligent. This means showing that they failed to follow safety regulations, did not maintain their vehicles or infrastructure properly, or otherwise acted in a way that caused the accident. Common examples of negligence include subway train operators failing to stop in time or bus drivers running a red light.

In some cases, other parties may also be liable for your injuries. For example, if a bus’s brakes fail due to a manufacturer defect, the manufacturer could be held responsible along with the NYCTA. A thorough investigation into the cause of the accident will help identify all parties liable for your injuries.

Filing a Notice of Claim Against the NYCTA

In New York, filing a claim against the NYCTA requires a strict process. The first step is filing a Notice of Claim, which informs the NYCTA of your intent to seek compensation. This must be done within 90 days of the accident. The Notice of Claim outlines the details of the incident, such as the time and location, as well as the nature of your injuries.

If you miss the 90-day deadline, your case may be dismissed, and you could lose your right to compensation. Ensuring that the Notice of Claim is filed correctly and on time is critical. This document allows the NYCTA to investigate the accident and prepares the foundation for a potential settlement or legal action.

We assist clients by drafting and filing the Notice of Claim on their behalf. Our attorneys are well-versed in the procedural requirements and can ensure that this critical step is completed accurately. Filing this document promptly is the first step in securing your right to compensation for your injuries.

Types of Compensation Available in NYCTA Injury Cases

Suppose you are injured in an NYCTA-related accident. In that case, you may be entitled to different forms of compensation, depending on the severity of your injuries and their impact on your life. Compensation is meant to cover the economic and non-economic losses you have suffered.

  • Medical Expenses – include hospital stays, surgeries, doctor visits, rehabilitation, and ongoing medical care.
  • Lost Wages – If your injury has caused you to miss work, you can recover lost wages, including future earnings, if your ability to work is affected in the long term.
  • Pain and Suffering – Compensation for physical pain, emotional distress, and the overall impact the injury has had on your quality of life.
  • Property Damage – If any of your personal belongings, such as a phone or other items, were damaged in the accident, you can be compensated for repair or replacement costs.
  • Disability or Permanent Injury – If your injuries result in long-term disability or disfigurement, you may receive compensation for the lasting effects on your life.

The amount of compensation you are entitled to depends on the circumstances of the accident and the extent of your injuries. We help clients evaluate their claims to pursue the maximum compensation allowed under the law.

Settling NYCTA Injury Claims vs. Going to Trial

Once you have filed a claim, the NYCTA may offer you a settlement. Settling your case means accepting a lump sum payment in exchange for waiving your right to pursue further legal action. While settlements provide a quicker resolution, they may not fully compensate you for all of your damages.

Going to trial is an option if the settlement offer is insufficient or liability is disputed. A trial allows you to present your case in court, where a judge or jury will determine the outcome. This can potentially result in a more significant compensation award but comes with the risk of losing the case altogether. Trials are also lengthier and more complex.

We help clients decide whether to settle or proceed to trial. Our attorneys negotiate with the NYCTA to secure the best possible outcome, but we are prepared to take your case to court if a fair settlement cannot be reached.

Time Limits for Filing an NYCTA Injury Lawsuit

In addition to filing the Notice of Claim within 90 days, you must file your lawsuit within a specific time frame. In New York, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury lawsuit against the NYCTA is one year and 90 days from the accident date.

If you file your lawsuit within this period, the court may accept your case, and you will retain the ability to recover compensation. These strict deadlines make it essential to act quickly following an NYCTA accident to protect your legal rights.

Our firm is dedicated to ensuring all necessary legal steps are taken within the required time limits. We work diligently to file your lawsuit promptly, allowing you to focus on your recovery while we handle the legal aspects of your case.

Contact the Law Office of Irene H. Gabo, P.C. to Discuss Your NYCTA Injury Lawsuit

If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident involving the NYCTA, you need experienced legal representation. At the Law Office of Irene H. Gabo, P.C., we are committed to helping accident victims pursue the compensation they deserve. NYCTA injury claims can be complex, but we have the knowledge and resources to guide you.

Contact the Law Office of Irene H. Gabo, P.C. today to discuss your NYCTA injury case. Call (800) 560-0214 to speak with one of our attorneys and schedule a free consultation. You can also submit a form online to arrange a consultation. Let us help you take the necessary legal steps to seek justice and recover the compensation you are entitled to.