Brooklyn Bus Accident Attorney

Legal Help After A Brooklyn Bus Crash

Serious injuries from a bus crash can change your life in a single trip. One moment you are commuting, taking your child to school, or running errands, and the next you may be facing pain, hospital visits, and calls from insurance companies. If this happened to you in Brooklyn, our team is here to help you move forward.

At the Law Office of Seni Popat, P.C., we represent riders, pedestrians, cyclists, and drivers who have been injured in collisions involving city buses, school buses, and private buses across New York City. With more than 15 years of experience handling personal injury matters and over $30 million recovered for injured clients, we know how complex these cases can be.

We offer free initial consultations and clear, practical guidance from the start. When you reach out, you can speak directly with an attorney who will listen to what happened, answer your questions, and explain how a bus crash claim typically works in this city.

Contact us today at (718) 866-3186 to schedule a free case evaluation.

Common Types of Buses in Brooklyn

Brooklyn’s dense population and reliance on public transportation mean buses are everywhere. Unfortunately, this also increases the risk of serious accidents. Common types of buses involved in Brooklyn crashes include:

• MTA Buses – Operated by the Metropolitan Transportation Authority, these buses transport thousands of passengers daily throughout Brooklyn neighborhoods.
• School Buses – Transporting children to and from school, these buses require heightened safety measures that are not always followed.
• Charter and Tour Buses – Often used for sightseeing, group travel, or special events, these large buses may be operated by private companies.
• Intercity Buses – Including Greyhound and similar carriers traveling between cities and states.
• Shuttle Buses – Used by hotels, airports, senior facilities, and private organizations.

Each type of bus may be subject to different regulations, insurance requirements, and liability rules, making legal guidance essential.

Common Causes of Bus Accidents

Bus accidents are often preventable and occur due to negligence by drivers, companies, or other parties. Some of the most common causes include:

• Driver Fatigue – Long shifts and tight schedules can lead to exhausted bus drivers.
• Distracted Driving – Using phones, adjusting controls, or interacting with passengers while driving.
• Speeding or Reckless Driving – Especially dangerous given the size and weight of buses.
• Failure to Yield or Obey Traffic Signals – A frequent issue at busy Brooklyn intersections.
• Poor Vehicle Maintenance – Faulty brakes, worn tires, or steering problems.
• Inadequate Driver Training – Especially among private bus companies.
• Hazardous Road Conditions – Construction zones, potholes, or poorly marked lanes.
• Negligent Third-Party Drivers – Other motorists who cause collisions involving buses.

Identifying the true cause of the accident is critical to determining liability and building a strong claim.

Common Bus Crash Injuries

Due to their size and lack of seat belts, bus accidents often result in severe injuries. Victims may include passengers, pedestrians, bicyclists, or occupants of other vehicles. Common injuries include:

• Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) and concussions
• Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
• Neck and back injuries, including herniated discs
• Broken bones and fractures
• Internal organ damage
• Lacerations, bruises, and soft tissue injuries
• Burns or crush injuries in serious collisions
• Psychological trauma, including PTSD

These injuries can require extensive medical treatment, long-term rehabilitation, and time away from work.

New York Bus Driving Laws

Bus drivers and operators in New York must comply with strict state and federal regulations designed to protect public safety. Key laws and rules include:

• Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Requirements – Bus drivers must hold a valid CDL with proper endorsements.
• Hours-of-Service Rules – Limits on how long drivers can operate without rest.
• Speed and Traffic Laws – Buses must obey posted speed limits and traffic signals.
• Passenger Safety Obligations – Drivers must ensure safe boarding, riding, and exiting.
• Vehicle Inspection and Maintenance Rules – Regular inspections are required to keep buses roadworthy.

Violations of these laws can be strong evidence of negligence in a bus accident claim.

Liability for a Bus Accident?

Determining liability in a bus accident is often complex. Depending on the circumstances, one or more of the following parties may be responsible:

• Bus Driver – For negligent or reckless driving behavior.
• Bus Company or Employer – For poor hiring practices, inadequate training, or failure to maintain vehicles.
• Government Entity – If the accident involved an MTA or city-operated bus.
• Maintenance Contractors – For defective repairs or inspections.
• Bus or Parts Manufacturers – If a defective component caused the crash.
• Other Negligent Drivers – Who contributed to or caused the accident.

Claims involving government-operated buses often have strict notice deadlines, making it critical to speak with a Brooklyn bus accident lawyer as soon as possible.

Recovering Compensation After a Bus Accident

Victims of bus accidents in Brooklyn may be entitled to compensation for a wide range of damages, including:

• Medical expenses (current and future)
• Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Rehabilitation and therapy costs
• Permanent disability or disfigurement
• Wrongful death damages for surviving family members

At Law Office of Seni Popat, P.C., we work with medical professionals, accident reconstruction experts, and financial specialists to accurately calculate the full value of your claim.

Bus Accident Claim FAQs

How long do I have to file a bus accident claim in Brooklyn?

Most personal injury claims in New York must be filed within three years, but claims against government entities often require a Notice of Claim within 90 days.

Can I sue the MTA for a bus accident?

Yes, but special rules and deadlines apply. An experienced Brooklyn bus accident lawyer can guide you through the process.

What if I was injured as a bus passenger?

Passengers have the right to pursue compensation if the driver, bus company, or another party was negligent.

What if the bus accident involved a pedestrian or cyclist?

Pedestrians and cyclists injured by buses often suffer severe injuries and may be entitled to significant compensation.

Do I need a lawyer for a bus accident claim?

Bus accident cases are complex and heavily defended. Having an experienced attorney significantly improves your chances of a successful outcome.

Why Injured Riders Choose Our Firm

After a serious bus accident, many people worry they will be treated like a number in a system they do not understand. We take a different approach. At Law Office of Seni Popat, P.C., we provide one-on-one attention, and clients work directly with attorney Seni Popat throughout their case. Our goal is to make sure you feel heard and informed at every step.

Attorney Popat has more than 15 years of legal experience representing injured people in New York City. Our firm has recovered over $30 million for clients in personal injury and related cases. This includes significant motor vehicle results such as a $2.1 million recovery in a motor vehicle accident, $1.7 million in a commercial auto accident, and $1.2 million in a rideshare accident. These results show how we handle complex collisions and fight for meaningful compensation when someone’s life has been disrupted.

Our work has been recognized by peers, and attorney Popat has been selected to the Super Lawyers list. This recognition reflects our commitment to professional, ethical advocacy. Clients frequently praise our communication. We take the time to explain what is happening, discuss realistic expectations, and respond to questions.

We also understand that bus crashes do not follow office hours. We are available 24/7 for client support, so when you are worried about a medical bill, a call from an insurance adjuster, or an upcoming appointment, you have someone to turn to. Our mission is to combine strong legal representation with the compassion and reassurance you need during a very difficult time.

To speak directly with a bus accident lawyer at our firm, call (718) 866-3186 today.