Bus Accidents in New York: MTA, School Buses, and Tour Buses Explained
November 22, 2025
New York is filled with buses — MTA buses, school buses, private shuttles, and tour buses carrying millions of people every day.
When accidents happen, the injuries can be serious because buses are large, heavy, and often crowded.
Whether you were a passenger, pedestrian, cyclist, or another driver, it’s important to understand your rights and the laws that apply to bus accidents in New York.
The Common Carrier Duty of Care
In New York, buses are considered common carriers.
This means they owe passengers a higher duty of care than regular drivers.
Common carriers must:
- Drive safely and avoid sudden stops
- Keep buses clean, dry, and free of hazards
- Follow traffic laws and speed limits
- Provide safe entry and exit for passengers
- Take extra steps to prevent injuries
If a bus driver or company fails to keep passengers safe, they may be held responsible for any injuries.
Municipal vs. Private Bus Companies
Your legal claim depends on who owns and operates the bus.
MTA & City-Owned Bus Accidents
If you were hurt in a crash involving the:
- MTA
- NYCTA
- MABSTOA
- School bus operated by the city
You must file a Notice of Claim within 90 days under New York General Municipal Law §50-e.
Missing this deadline can prevent you from filing a lawsuit.
Private Bus Companies
Tour buses, charter buses, coach buses, and some school buses are privately owned.
Private companies include:
- Greyhound
- Megabus
- Tour bus operators
- Charter companies
- Private school bus contractors
Claims against private bus companies do not require a Notice of Claim, but they may have large insurance policies that fight claims aggressively.
Knowing the difference between municipal and private bus ownership is key to filing your claim correctly — and on time.
Accidents Inside Buses
Not all bus-related injuries come from crashes.
Many passengers get hurt from the condition inside buses, often due to:
- Sudden stops
- Broken steps
- Loose handrails
- Overcrowding
Bus companies are responsible for keeping the interior safe.
If the driver or company knew — or should have known — about the hazard, they may be liable for your injuries.
Bus Stop and Boarding Accidents
Accidents can also happen before you even get on the bus.
Common bus stop injuries include:
- Being hit while crossing in front of or behind a bus
- Falls caused by uneven curbs or icy sidewalks
- Drivers closing the door too quickly
- Buses pulling away while passengers are boarding
- Unsafe or sudden movements when passengers are stepping off
Both municipal agencies and private companies must make bus stops reasonably safe and allow passengers enough time to board or exit.
Pedestrians struck at bus stops may have claims against:
- The bus driver
- The bus company
- The city or municipality (if the road or sidewalk was unsafe)
Because bus stop accidents often involve multiple parties, an attorney can help identify every responsible entity.
Who Is Liable in a Bus Accident?
Depending on the situation, you may have a claim against:
- The bus driver
- The bus company (MTA or private)
- The City of New York
- A school district
- Another vehicle that caused the crash
- Maintenance contractors
- Manufacturers of defective bus parts
Bus accident cases can be complex, which is why strong investigation and witness statements are essential.
We’re Here to Help
At LFK Law Practice, P.C., we help injured passengers, pedestrians, cyclists, and drivers recover after MTA, school bus, and tour bus accidents.
We investigate the crash, identify all responsible parties, and help you file your claim — including the strict deadlines required for city-owned buses.
Contact us today for a free consultation.
We’ll help you understand your legal rights and protect your claim from the very beginning.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do buses owe passengers a higher duty of care?
Yes. Buses are “common carriers” and must take extra steps to keep passengers safe.
Do I need to file a Notice of Claim for MTA accidents?
Yes. You must file within 90 days if the bus is owned by a city agency.
What if I got hurt on a bus but there was no crash?
You can still file a claim if negligence caused the injury.
Can I sue for injuries at a bus stop?
Yes — if the bus driver, company, or city was negligent.
What about school bus accidents?
Parents may file claims for children injured on public or private school buses, depending on who operates the bus.
