As one of the largest cities in the world, New York City has developed an intricate network of buses, subways, light rails, ferries, and more to assist New York and New Jersey residents with easily and quickly navigating the city and commuting to and from work. Because New York City is notorious for bad traffic and skyrocketing parking rates, many individuals have turned to the convenience of public transportation to avoid the hassle of driving in the city. While many feel lulled into a sense of security while riding a train or bus, the recent deadly train crash in Hoboken awakened fears amongst New Yorkers about exactly how safe they are while aboard public transportation.
New Jersey Transit Train Crashes into Hoboken Terminal, Killing 1 and Injuring Over 100
On September 29, 2016, a New Jersey train carrying 250 passengers barreled into the Hoboken station without slowing or stopping, slamming into a wall and leaping up onto the platform. Individuals were injured by both the impact and falling debris. The conductor was found unconscious and hospitalized but subsequently notified authorities that he did not remember the accident and did not know why the accident occurred. Hoboken Terminal is the largest station in New Jersey, and many travelers go on to New York City for work or pleasure. The crash led to the station being shut down for investigation and repairs.
This is not the first dangerous train crash in the New York region. In 2011, a PATH train heading to Manhattan sped into a station and hit a post, causing injuries to 30 passengers. In 2013, in New York, a Metro-North train derailed because the conductor had fallen asleep, resulting in the deaths of four passengers.
Train Crash Liability in New York
There are many different types of train crash liability. If a train conductor falls asleep on the job, is intoxicated, or is simply careless, resulting in a crash, you may sue both the train conductor and the organization that owns and operates the train under the theory of vicarious liability. Vicarious liability holds employers vicariously responsible for the actions of their employees when the employee is on the clock and performing duties of the job.
If the accident occurs due to a mechanical malfunction, you may sue the owner of the train directly for failure to maintain safe and operable equipment. The organization that owns the train, such as Amtrak, is responsible for maintaining the train, following laws regarding safety procedures and protocols, ensuring the train passes inspection, fixing issues or taking the train out of service, and more.
Schedule a Free Consultation with Our New York Subway Accident Attorneys Today
At Wingate, Russotti, Shapiro, Moses & Halperin, LLP, our New York subway accident attorneys are eager to assist you with seeking compensation for injuries caused by a public transportation accident. We will help you understand your rights and the law, explain your options, and advise you on how to proceed. For assistance with evaluating whether you may have a claim, contact us at (212) 986-7353 today for a free consultation.