Who’s Liable for Injuries Sustained on the Subway?

 

Thousands of New York residents use the subway each day, making ours the busiest rapid transit rail system in the country. While the overwhelming majority of subway rides begin and end without a hitch, people do occasionally become injured on the subway. Subway accidents can include incidents on the train itself, or while waiting, boarding or departing the line.

 

The New York City Subway

Our world-famous rapid transit system is owned by the City of New York, who leases it to the NYC Transit Authority. The Transit Authority is, in turn, a subsidiary of the state-run Metropolitan Transportation Authority.Therefore, if an unsafe condition on the subway causes an accident, it can be difficult to know who should be held liable for the resulting injuries.

 

Who is Responsible for Maintenance?

If a subway injury is the result of improper maintenance of the trains, waiting areas or turnstiles, you could have a strong premises liability claim for damages. You deserve compensation for the expenses resulting from an accident caused by unsafe conditions. But whose responsibility is it to ensure the subway is reasonably safe?

The Metropolitan Transit Authority (MTA) is ultimately responsible for New York subway system safety. Their high standards and strict safety regulations prevent most accidents. However, if subwaytrain or station maintenance is substandard, serious accidents can result.Injuries can be caused by:

• Persons caught in doors of cars as they close
• Tripping or slipping and falling into track trenches
• Persons hit by moving trains
• Turnstile accidents
• Falls on stairs due to faulty handrails or excessive snow and ice buildup

These are just come examples of accidents that can be caused by poor maintenance and may injure riders.

 

Time is Limited to File a Notice of Claim

Since the MTA is a government entity, you have a very limited amount of time—90 days—in which to file a notice of claim if you intend to sue for damages after a subway accident. If you’ve been injured on the subway, don’t hesitate to contact us for a free case evaluation. We may be able to help you get the compensation you deserve.