While New York's rail systems are extremely safe and efficient, no form of transportation is 100% safe. Subway and train accidents do occur. In some instances the accidents involve derailments or collisions. In other instances, accidents happen on the platforms, stairs, or escalators. For example, in the case of Blechman v. N.Y.C. Transit Auth., 2014 NY Slip Op 30716 (N.Y. Sup. Ct., 2014), Pamela Blechman was injured when she fell into the gap between a subway train and the platform at the 14th Street-Union Square subway station. Blechman fractured her ankle and had to undergo 2 surgeries. Whether a subway or train accident occur on the train or on a platform, the injuries can be serious. For example, if a passenger is in a slip and fall accident on a subway platform, he or she may suffer a severe head injury, while a passenger involved in a derailment may suffer a broken bone. If or a loved one was seriously injured in a subway accident, it is important that you immediately contact an experienced Staten Island Subway Accident Lawyer to learn more about how you can obtain just compensation for your injuries.
Common causes of subway accidentsNew York is a huge city and commuters rely on its subway system every day to move around. While most people feel that subway travel is safe, no form of transportation can boast a perfect safety record. Conductor error, equipment malfunction, and negligence can all lead to serious accidents that injure both passengers and workers. In addition, accidents that take place on the subway platform or elsewhere in the subway station make up for a significant number of serious injuries. Trip and fall accident cases account for a high percentage of all subway accident cases. It is not uncommon for someone to slip on a stairway or trip on crack in a platform. Even debris caused by routine maintenance can cause someone to slip and fall.
Pursuing a claimDepending on the facts of your case, if you are hurt in a subway accident due to another person's negligence you may be entitled a number of types of compensation.
In the case of Blechman v. N.Y.C. Transit Auth., Blechman filed a claim against the New York City Transit Authority arguing that its negligence resulted in the serious injury to her ankle. The jury agreed. The jury awarded Bleckman $350,000 for pain and suffering.
It is important to note that when suing a government entity such as the New York City Transit Authority there are special rules that you must follow, and the time frame for filing a claim is limited.
Staten Island Subway Accident LawyerSubway accident cases are extremely complicated and may involve governmental entities as well as private companies and private citizens. Furthermore there may be complex procedural rules and timelines that must be followed. To make sure that your case is properly handled it is critical that you are represented by attorneys with experience handling personal injury cases where the government is involved. Contact Stephen Bilkis and Associates to discuss the details of your case. Contact us at 800.696.9529 to schedule a free, no obligation consultation regarding your case. We serve those injured in accidents in the following locations: