The effects of the blizzard of 2010 are finally ending but not for the New York City Transit Authority (NYCTA) or the City of New York. Hundreds of passengers were stranded for several hours on trains that never should have left the station. THERESA JUVA of amNewYork, who spoke with passengers on a stranded train reported that no MTA official assisted passengers and they were left without food, water or blankets. Several personal injury claims have been presented to both the NYCTA and the City of New York. In fact one person died from exposure. Furthermore, ambulances and other emergency personal where unable to be dispatched, leaving several sick and elderly residents stuck in their homes.
On January 10, 2011, the New York City Counsel held a public hearing addressing the City of New York’s response to the blizzard of 2010. John J. Doherty, Commissioner of the NYC Department of Sanitation, testified at the hearing and admitted that “New Yorkers rightfully expected the delivery of timely and efficient service that we have consistently provided during past major snowstorms, but this time our clean-up response was unacceptable.” Commissioner Doherty was questioned extensively and promised to review the City’s response and to make adjustments and improvements for future storms.
Leav & Steinberg, LLP, has successfully sued the NYCTA and the City of New York for their negligence on numerous occasions. It is important to realize that there are strict time requirements for making a claim against the NYCTA or any city entity. As a general rule a notice of claim must be filed within 90 days! But each agency has its own rules so the best course of action is to call Leav & Steinberg,LLP as soon as you have an accident.
Remember, we work for you and as I tell all my clients at Leav & Steinberg, LLP. “It is always best to call your lawyer as soon as an accident happens”.
