Many New Yorkers rely on commercial ferries to get back and forth from New Jersey and around other places in the city. Commercial ferries are an integral part of New York’s transportation for locals and visitors alike, but what happens when there’s an accident? Liability in ferry accidents can be complex, but our Brooklyn personal injury attorneys are here to help.
Ferry Accidents in New York City
Our ferries are responsible for transporting many people and their vehicles across bodies of water, and often are referred to as water buses because of their important place in public transportation around New York. Unfortunately, accidents involving ferries do occur.
These accidents can include:
- Crashing into piers while docking
- Sinking
- Fires
- Human error
- Mechanical failure
- Negligent maintenance
- Inadequate training
Liability in NYC Ferry Accidents
If you have been injured while on a ferry or waiting to board a ferry, it is likely that you will be able to recover compensation. There is a distinction between cases involving public entities, such as the New York City Department of Transportation, and a privately owned and operated ferry or water taxi.
The first step you’ll need to take when filing a claim is to determine what parties may be liable for your injuries. Negligent maintenance and operation are key factors in these accidents, but many ferry accidents could have been avoided with due care. If you were injured on a ferry operated by a public entity, you have 90 days from the date of the accident to file a Notice of Claim with the correct department. Because of the extremely limited time frame, it is important to begin your case right away and contact a qualified personal injury lawyer to assist you.
If the ferry was privately owned and operated, however, you do not need to file a Notice of Claim. Unfortunately, you are still bound by the New York statute of limitations for your injury claim, which means you must file your claim within 3 years from the date of the accident.
While filing a claim against a public entity can have more restrictions, that doesn’t mean it is simple to file a claim against a private party. If you or someone you love has been injured in a ferry-related accident, it’s important to speak with our Brooklyn personal injury attorneys to discover your legal options. We can help you understand the course of your claim and the choices you have, as well as advocate for you and represent your best interests.
Contact Belushin Law Firm, P.C. today to schedule a free case evaluation and discuss your claim. Call (888) 918-9890 now.