Bus Accident Lawyer in Farmingdale

Were you injured in a collision involving a bus? From public transit vehicles to school buses and private charters, bus-related crashes can cause victims major harm, namely due to the size and weight of these vehicles.

Unfortunately, when passengers, pedestrians, or other motorists are involved in bus accidents, the results can be life-altering. As a result, the aftermath often leaves people feeling stressed out and overwhelmed, but you’re not alone. Let a bus accident lawyer in Farmingdale help.

Together, we’ve recovered hundreds of millions in compensation. With a Farmingdale personal injury lawyer from Levine And Wiss by your side, you can trust that we’ll advocate for your legal rights, protect you in your pursuit of justice, and fight for a favorable outcome.

Common Causes of Bus Accidents

Bus accidents often stem from a combination of driver error, vehicle factors, and environmental conditions.

Driver Negligence

A frequent contributor to collisions involving buses is driver negligence. Bus operators may become distracted, fatigued, or impaired while driving. Distracted driving can include using mobile devices, adjusting onboard technology, or being preoccupied with passengers.

Fatigue is particularly relevant for drivers covering long routes, as drowsiness reduces reaction time and decision-making abilities. Impairment due to alcohol or prescription medications further increases the risk of accidents.

Mechanical Failure or Inadequate Maintenance

Mechanical failure or inadequate maintenance is another factor in bus accidents. Brakes, steering systems, tires, and suspension components must be regularly inspected and maintained to ensure safe operation.

Malfunctioning brakes or worn tires can dramatically reduce stopping power, especially in urban environments with heavy traffic and frequent stops. Structural defects, such as faulty seat anchoring or defective doors, can also worsen the impact of an accident.

Environmental Conditions

Environmental conditions in Farmingdale contribute to bus accident risks as well. Heavy rain, snow, ice, and fog create slippery road surfaces that make braking and maneuvering more difficult.

Construction Zones and Poorly Maintained Roads

Construction zones and poorly maintained roads, common along major Farmingdale routes and commuter corridors, can present unexpected hazards. Traffic congestion, frequent intersections, and pedestrian activity further complicate driving conditions for bus operators.

Improper Training or Inexperience

Improper training or inexperience is another factor. Bus operators require specialized knowledge and skill to handle large vehicles safely. Inadequate training can lead to errors when negotiating tight turns, merging into traffic, or responding to sudden obstacles.

High passenger loads can also shift the center of gravity, making the vehicle more difficult to control during sharp turns or emergency maneuvers.

Types of Injuries in Bus Accidents

Because buses are large and heavy vehicles, collisions caused by them often result in serious injuries. Passengers can experience trauma even in relatively low-speed accidents due to sudden stops, swerving, or impacts.

These are examples of common injuries in bus-related collisions:

• Broken bones
• Spinal cord injuries
• Traumatic brain injuries
• Lacerations
• Internal organ damage

Seatbelt use is critical, but not all buses are equipped with them, particularly older public transit buses and some school buses. Lack of restraints increases the risk of ejection or severe injury during a rollover, collision, or sudden stop.

Pedestrians and drivers of smaller vehicles involved in bus accidents are also at risk because the bus’s size and momentum can amplify the impact. Additionally, bus accidents can have lasting psychological effects.

Victims may develop post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety, or depression following a serious accident. Recovery may require ongoing medical treatment, therapy, and adjustments to daily life, especially for those who sustain permanent injuries.

Federal and State Regulations

Buses are subject to a set of regulations designed to promote safety. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) imposes rules for commercial vehicles, covering driver qualifications, hours of service, vehicle maintenance, and operational safety.

Drivers must undergo background checks, medical examinations, and periodic training to ensure compliance. State and local laws add additional layers of oversight. The following parties must comply with the New York State Department of Transportation (NYSDOT) regulations:

• Public transit authorities
• Private bus operators
• School districts

They must also abide by municipal traffic ordinances. Vehicles are subject to inspections, and operators must follow posted speed limits, pedestrian safety rules, and passenger protection standards.

School buses are subject to special requirements, including clearly marked stop signs, flashing lights, and strict loading and unloading procedures to protect children. Failure to comply with federal, state, or local regulations can establish liability in bus accidents.

Statute of Limitations

In New York, victims of bus accidents have specific timeframes to initiate legal claims. For personal injury claims, the statute of limitations is typically three years from the date of the accident. Wrongful death claims must be filed within two years of the decedent’s passing.

Special notice requirements apply when public entities are involved, including a 90-day notice of claim period. Failure to meet these deadlines can prevent victims from recovering compensation.

Contact Levine And Wiss ASAP to Speak With Farmingdale Bus Accident Lawyers Today

If you or someone you care about was hurt in a bus-related crash, you don’t have to face the aftermath on your own. The stress, injuries, and uncertainty that follow an experience like this can be too much to handle alone, but you don’t have to go through it all by yourself.

Instead, turn to Levine And Wiss to speak with Farmingdale bus accident attorneys who are ready and willing to take on your case. Our bus accident law firm in Farmingdale is here to stand up for your rights as we help you pursue the compensation you deserve.