Every day, millions of New Yorkers rely on MTA buses to get around the city. While public transportation is generally safe, bus accidents still happen. Whether you’re a passenger, pedestrian, cyclist, or occupant of another vehicle, an MTA bus crash can leave you facing serious injuries, mounting medical bills, lost wages, and significant disruption to your life. 

One of the most common questions accident victims ask is: 

“Can I sue the MTA after a bus crash?” 

The short answer is yes—but pursuing a claim against the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) is different from filing a lawsuit against a private driver or company. Special rules, shorter deadlines, and unique legal procedures apply when a government entity is involved. 

Here’s what every New Yorker should know. 

Yes, You Can Sue the MTA After a Bus Accident 

The MTA and its operating agencies can be held legally responsible when their negligence causes injuries. This may occur when: 

• An MTA bus driver causes a collision 
• A driver runs a red light or fails to yield 
• The bus makes a dangerous turn 
• The driver is distracted or fatigued 
• The bus is improperly maintained 
• A passenger is injured during a sudden stop or acceleration 
• A pedestrian or cyclist is struck by an MTA vehicle 

Like any other organization, the MTA has a legal duty to operate its buses safely and protect the public from foreseeable harm. When that duty is breached and injuries result, injured parties may have grounds for a personal injury claim. 

Who Can File an MTA Bus Accident Claim? 

Many people assume only bus passengers can pursue compensation after an MTA accident. In reality, several categories of victims may have legal claims, including: 

Bus Passengers 

Passengers may suffer injuries from: 

• Sudden stops 
• Sharp turns 
• Bus rollovers 
• Collisions with other vehicles 
• Defective bus equipment 
• Falling while boarding or exiting 

Pedestrians 

New York City’s crowded streets create frequent interactions between buses and pedestrians. Crosswalk accidents and turning collisions can result in catastrophic injuries. 

Cyclists 

Cyclists often share roadways with large buses. Blind spots, improper turns, and lane violations can lead to devastating crashes. 

Drivers and Vehicle Occupants 

If an MTA bus strikes your vehicle, you may be entitled to compensation for injuries and property damage. 

The Biggest Difference: The 90-Day Notice of Claim Deadline 

This is where many accident victims run into trouble. 

Unlike a typical car accident case, you generally cannot immediately file a lawsuit against the MTA. Before you can sue, New York law requires that you file a Notice of Claim against the appropriate public entity. In most cases, this notice must be filed within 90 days of the accident. 

The Notice of Claim serves several purposes: 

• Notifies the MTA that an injury claim exists 
• Allows the agency to investigate 
• Preserves evidence 
• Gives the MTA an opportunity to evaluate potential liability 

Missing this deadline can seriously jeopardize—or even eliminate—your right to pursue compensation. 

Why Acting Quickly Matters 

MTA accident cases often involve critical evidence that may not remain available forever. 

Important evidence can include: 

• Bus surveillance footage 
• GPS tracking data 
• Driver logs 
• Maintenance records 
• Witness statements 
• Police reports 
• Accident reconstruction evidence 

The sooner an attorney becomes involved, the sooner steps can be taken to preserve this evidence before it disappears. 

What Compensation Can You Recover? 

The value of an MTA bus accident claim depends on the severity of your injuries and how the accident affects your life. 

Potential damages may include: 

Economic Damages 

These are measurable financial losses, such as: 

• Medical expenses 
• Future medical treatment 
• Physical therapy 
• Lost income 
• Reduced earning capacity 
• Property damage 

Non-Economic Damages 

These damages compensate for personal losses, including: 

• Pain and suffering 
• Emotional distress 
• Loss of enjoyment of life 
• Permanent disability 
• Scarring or disfigurement 

In severe cases involving life-altering injuries, MTA claims can result in substantial compensation awards. Courts and juries have awarded significant verdicts in cases involving serious negligence by transit agencies. 

What If the Bus Driver Wasn’t Entirely at Fault? 

Many NYC bus crashes involve multiple parties. 

Potentially liable parties may include: 

• The MTA 
• New York City Transit Authority 
• Private contractors 
• Other drivers 
• Vehicle manufacturers 
• Maintenance companies 

An experienced attorney will investigate every possible source of liability to maximize your potential recovery. 

Common MTA Bus Accident Injuries 

Bus accidents often produce injuries that range from minor to catastrophic. 

Common injuries include: 

• Whiplash 
• Back injuries 
• Neck injuries 
• Broken bones 
• Concussions 
• Traumatic brain injuries 
• Spinal cord injuries 
• Internal injuries 
• Soft tissue injuries 

Even injuries that initially seem minor can develop into long-term health problems. Seeking prompt medical care is essential for both your health and your legal claim. 

What Should You Do After an MTA Bus Accident? 

If you’ve been injured in a crash involving an MTA bus, consider taking the following steps: 

1. Seek immediate medical attention. 
2. Report the accident to authorities. 
3. Gather photographs if possible. 
4. Obtain witness information. 
5. Keep records of medical treatment. 
6. Avoid discussing fault with insurers. 
7. Contact a personal injury attorney as soon as possible. 

The procedural requirements involved in claims against government entities make early legal guidance especially important. 

How Ask4SAM Can Help 

MTA bus accident claims are rarely straightforward. Filing deadlines are shorter, procedural requirements are stricter, and government agencies often have significant resources available to defend against claims. 

At Ask4SAM, we help injury victims throughout New York City navigate complex personal injury cases involving public transportation accidents. Our team understands the unique rules governing claims against the MTA and works to protect our clients’ rights from the very beginning. 

If you or a loved one has been injured in an MTA bus crash, don’t wait until critical deadlines pass. Contact Ask4SAM for a free consultation to discuss your legal options and determine whether you may be entitled to compensation. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I sue the MTA if I was a passenger on the bus?

Yes. Passengers injured due to driver negligence, unsafe operation, or bus defects may have a claim against the MTA.

How long do I have to file a claim after an MTA bus accident?

Generally, a Notice of Claim must be filed within 90 days of the accident.

Can pedestrians sue after being hit by an MTA bus?

Yes. Pedestrians injured by negligent bus operation may pursue compensation.

What if I was partially at fault for the accident?

New York’s comparative negligence rules may still allow you to recover compensation, though your recovery could be reduced.

Do I need a lawyer for an MTA bus accident claim?

While not legally required, the special procedures involved make legal representation highly beneficial.

What damages can I recover?

You may be eligible for compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other losses.

What happens if I miss the 90-day Notice of Claim deadline?

Missing the deadline can significantly impact your ability to pursue a claim, although limited exceptions may exist in certain circumstances.