With more than 65,000 bus crashes annually in the United States, bus passengers, other drivers and pedestrians are at risk, especially in places like New York City where transit buses move commuters, residents and tourists around the city 24 hours a day. If you’ve been involved in a NYC bus accident, there are several considerations you want to be aware of before you decide what to do next. Make sure to avoid these four mistakes to protect your best interests and your rights to file a claim and secure ample, fair compensation for your injuries.
#1: Failing to Get Immediate Medical Care
If you’re seriously injured in a NYC bus accident, you likely would be receiving immediate medical care. Seeking medical care is also critical for injuries or illnesses that develop over time. Oftentimes, the shock and trauma of an accident can mask symptoms of injury in the immediate aftermath. By receiving medical care, you are not only starting the physical road to recovery but also creating documentation of your injuries which will make it easier to prove your injuries should you file a claim.
#2: Waiting Too Long
A common mistake bus accident victims make is waiting too long to speak with a legal expert and file a claim. In New York and New Jersey, if you intend to file a claim or lawsuit against a public entity, you must formally start that process with a Notice of Claim within 90 days of the accident.
For example, if you were injured by or in a transit bus, like one operated by the New York City Transit Authority, you must act within 90 days of the accident. If you were involved in a bus accident operated by a private company like a hotel shuttle or charter bus, the deadline to file may be different. It’s in your best interest to contact a NYC bus accident lawyer as soon as possible to understand your options and protect your rights.
#3: Signing Anything From the Insurance Company Without Talking to a Bus Accident Lawyer
After an accident, you may hear from one or more insurance companies asking for statements and offering you a settlement. If you were driving another vehicle hit by a bus, your insurance carrier may pressure you into giving a statement or information that could hurt you down the line. Insurance companies may also offer you a monetary settlement for your injuries. Don’t sign anything from an insurance carrier without discussing your case with an attorney. Once you sign and accept a settlement, you forego all rights to file a claim and additional compensation.
#4: Failing to Consider All of Your Financial Losses
If you’ve been seriously injured in a bus accident, the loss of income coupled with the medical bills will affect your finances, and you may not initially realize the full extent of your financial losses. If you accept a quick, initial offer and receive a small payout from an insurance provider, it will likely not be enough to fully compensate you for your losses or your pain and suffering. If you’ve been the victim in a bus accident as a passenger or pedestrian especially, you may be eligible for compensation for medical bills, ongoing medical care, past and future lost wages and other damages through a personal injury claim.
Some people will avoid pursuing a personal injury claim as they don’t want to get involved with the hassle and efforts involved. At Brandon J. Broderick, Attorney at Law, we first work to ensure that your health and well-being are restored, and then get to work beginning the process of getting you reimbursed for your losses. We handle the communications and negotiations with insurance companies and build your case to pursue maximum compensation for your injuries. Don’t be left on the hook for medical bills and expenses that are not your fault.
Brandon J. Broderick, NYC Bus Accident Lawyers
At Brandon J. Broderick, Attorney at Law, we are dedicated to assisting clients throughout New Jersey and New York with their bus accident and personal injury cases. We have years of experience and the extensive resources you need to secure a fair case result. Our compassionate attorneys put client care and your needs first. Contact us immediately to understand your options.