The New York City subway is a vital part of daily life for millions of commuters. However, the physical, emotional, and financial consequences can be serious when a routine ride ends in an accident. If you’ve been injured in a subway accident, knowing your legal rights and the steps to take to protect them is crucial.
At Hecht, Kleeger & Damasheck, P.C., our experienced NYC subway accident lawyers help injury victims hold the MTA and other negligent parties accountable. Here’s what you should do after a subway accident in New York City, and how we can help you recover.
NYC Subway Accidents & Potential Consequences
The New York subway system is a massive, aging infrastructure. With millions of daily riders and constant movement, safety hazards can arise quickly.
Some of the most common types of subway accidents in NYC include:
- Slip and falls on wet or broken platforms and staircases
- Getting caught in malfunctioning train doors
- Collisions or derailments due to operator or mechanical error
- Being pushed or falling onto the tracks
- Escalator and elevator accidents in stations
- Subway crimes due to negligent security
The consequences of subway accidents can range from mild to life-altering. Victims may suffer:
- Broken bones, sprains, and soft tissue injuries
- Head trauma or concussions
- Spinal cord injuries or paralysis
- Lacerations or crushing injuries
- Post-traumatic stress or emotional distress
In the most serious cases, subway accidents can lead to permanent disability or wrongful death. These injuries not only cause pain and suffering, but they can also result in massive medical expenses, lost income, and long-term care needs. That’s why acting quickly and consulting an experienced subway injury attorney in NYC is critical.
Step 1: Seek Medical Attention Immediately
Your health and safety come first. After a subway injury, call 911 or visit a hospital if you’re hurt. Even if your injuries don’t seem serious, get checked by a doctor. Some injuries, like traumatic brain injuries or internal bleeding, may not show symptoms right away.
Medical records also serve as important evidence in your personal injury claim and help connect your injuries directly to the accident.
Step 2: Gather Evidence from the Subway Accident Scene
If you are physically able, take steps to document the accident scene. Try to collect:
- Photos or videos of the platform, train, stairs, or any hazards (e.g., broken flooring, spills, poor lighting).
- Contact information for any eyewitnesses.
- Specific details include the subway line, station name, travel direction, and accident time.
This documentation can help your New York subway injury lawyer build a strong case by proving unsafe conditions or negligence.
Step 3: Report the Incident to the MTA
It’s essential to report the accident to a station agent or Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) employee as soon as possible. Request a copy of the incident report or the reference number for your records.
Failing to report the incident could hurt your chances of pursuing a successful claim, especially when the MTA disputes responsibility.
Step 4: Avoid Making Statements Without Legal Guidance
After your accident, representatives from the MTA or their insurance providers may try to get a statement from you. Be cautious. Do not admit fault or speculate about what caused the accident.
Instead, speak with a qualified NYC personal injury attorney before providing any statements. A lawyer can ensure your words aren’t used against you later.
Step 5: Understand Your Legal Rights After a Subway Injury
You may be entitled to financial compensation if your subway accident was caused by negligence.
Common causes of NYC subway injuries include:
- Slippery or broken platforms and stairs
- Malfunctioning turnstiles or train doors
- Inadequate lighting or warning signs
- Operator error or mechanical failures
- Negligent security or overcrowding
Victims may recover damages for:
- Medical bills and future treatment
- Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Long-term disability or disfigurement
Step 6: File a Notice of Claim Within 90 Days
One of the most important steps in any claim against the MTA is the Notice of Claim. If you intend to sue a government entity like the MTA in New York, you must file a Notice of Claim within 90 days of the incident.
This formal notice lets the MTA know you plan to seek damages and preserves your right to file a lawsuit. Missing this deadline can prevent you from recovering compensation, even if your case is strong.
Step 7: Contact an Experienced NYC Subway Accident Lawyer
Taking on the MTA or another government agency is not easy. These are complex cases with tight deadlines and high legal standards. That’s where Hecht, Kleeger & Damasheck, P.C. comes in.
Our skilled New York City subway accident attorneys can:
- Investigate the cause of your accident
- Gather crucial evidence and interview witnesses
- File your Notice of Claim before the deadline
- Negotiate with the MTA and insurers
- Represent you in court, if necessary
We offer free consultations and work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay unless we win your case.
Ready to Hold the MTA Accountable? Contact HKD Today
A subway accident can turn your life upside down — but you don’t have to face it alone. If you or a loved one was injured in a New York City subway accident, our legal team is ready to help you pursue justice and full compensation.
Call us today at (212) 490-5700 or contact us online to schedule a free, no-obligation case review with one of our trusted NYC subway injury lawyers.