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De Caro & Kaplen, LLP
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New York Bus Accident Lawyers

De Caro & Kaplen partners Shana De Caro and Michael V. Kaplen represent bus accident victims in New York. For over 45 years our firm has successfully recovered substantial awards and settlements for our bus accident clients in cases involving the MTA, NYCTA, and private carriers, including a recent $3.5M settlement in a case involving a tour bus. Contingency based, with no upfront fees to pay. All litigation costs advanced by our firm. Call today on (212) 732-2262 to arrange a free consultation and let De Caro & Kaplen fight for the justice and compensation you deserve for your injuries.

Why Choose De Caro & Kaplen, LLP for Your Bus Accident Case

  • Government Entity Expertise: We understand the strict 90-day Notice of Claim filing requirement and the 1 year and 90-day statute of limitations for actions against the MTA, NYCTA, and MABSTOA.
  • No-Fault Insurance Navigation: Our counsel will coordinate Personal Injury Protection (PIP) benefits for immediate medical bills and lost wages regardless of fault.
  • Serious Injury Threshold: We provide assistance to meet the New York legal standards required to pursue non-economic damages for pain and suffering.
  • Evidence Preservation: Our partners Shana De Caro and Michael V. Kaplen retain accident reconstruction experts to immediately secure critical evidence, including electronic data recorders (black boxes) and GPS logs.
  • Contingency Fee Structure: We advance all litigation expenses, with no upfront costs or legal fees unless a successful settlement or jury verdict is achieved.

A History of Multi-Million Dollars Verdicts & Settlements in Bus Accident Cases

De Caro & Kaplen has a history of multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements for our New York bus accident clients. Recent cases which resulted in successful recovery include:

  • $3,500,000 settlement for the family of a wife and mother who tragically lost her life in a tour bus accident caused by a tire blowout causing the bus driver to lose control of the bus resulting in a rollover. (case study)
  • $1,390,000 settlement during trial for spinal injuries caused when an inattentive bus driver rear-ended our client’s car.

Our Credentials, Recognition & Track Record in Bus Accident and Personal Injury Cases

  • Board-Certified Leadership: Partner Michael V. Kaplen is triple board-certified by the National Board of Trial Advocacy, reflecting over 45 years of trial readiness and courtroom experience.
  • Proven Case Results: We have a history of significant recoveries for our bus accident clients, including a $3,500,000 settlement for a tour bus passenger and $1,390,000 for a rear-end bus collision.
  • Elite Peer Recognition: De Caro & Kaplen, LLP partners Michael V. Kaplen and Shana De Caro are multi-year New York Super Lawyers.
  • Industry Authority: Our partners have served on the Advisory Board of the Interstate Bus Accident Litigation Group and hold leadership roles in national legal organizations.
  • Client-Centric Model: We maintain a selective caseload to ensure direct partner access and personalized one-on-one support throughout the litigation process.
  • Covering NYC and New York State: Comprehensive representation across all five NYC boroughs, Long Island, Westchester, and Upstate regions including Albany, Buffalo, and Syracuse.

What Types Of Bus Accident Cases Can We Assist With?

Below are common types of bus accidents in New York for which De Caro & Kaplen, LLP has previously represented clients. This list is not exhaustive. If you believe negligence contributed to your accident, please reach out. We’re here to help.

  • Bus accidents caused by driver error or negligence
  • Bus accidents caused by poor vehicle maintenance
  • Bus accidents due to reckless or aggressive driving
  • Pedestrian and cyclist accidents involving buses
  • Bus accidents caused by overcrowding
  • School bus accidents
  • Bus collisions with fixed objects
  • Injuries caused by slip-and-fall incidents on buses
  • Accidents involving transit system negligence
  • Passenger injuries from sudden stops or accelerations

Client Reviews and Testimonials

De Caro & Kaplen LLP has a 4.9 star rating on Google reviews, aggregated from over 175 client reviews. Below are a selection of reviews from our clients.

Review by our client Allison Sansoucie

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

"My family needed help with a complicated personal injury case. I was fortunate to be referred to De Caro & Kaplen. Outstanding attorneys! Michael and Shana are reliable, intelligent, and dedicated advocates. There were a number of times I had specific concerns about the case and Michael was always steps ahead. The attention paid to details was truly remarkable. Shana and Michael always responded quickly to every call and email. Their assistant, Andy was consistently patient, kind, and helpful. They provided seamless referrals to rehabilitation facilities and elder care experts as needed. Shana and Michael consistently went above and beyond in countless ways throughout 2 1/2 years to ensure the most favorable outcome for my family. De Caro & Kaplen navigated each and every aspect of the lawsuit and mediation with professionalism and integrity. Incredible given the many delays due to COVID. I highly recommend De Caro & Kaplen."

Google Reviews

Review by our client April Bulger

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

"After my first meeting with Michael Kaplen I knew I was in the right hands. He and his team are amazing. I would recommend them to anyone in need of an attorney that will get the job done while giving their clients a piece of mind. Complete honesty and candor each step of the process which I respect."

Google Reviews

Review by our client Christina Bentham

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

"Fantastic experience! Accepted to pursue my case with many challenges. Michael Kaplen never gave up, even when posed with a vicious defense attorney. He was always one step ahead of the attorney and beat her at ever turn. When I called, emailed, or texted, Mr. Kaplen responded personally. The customer service was terrific and I always felt their entire team was attentive to every concern I had. I highly recommend the DeCaro/Kaplen team and thank them for everything they did for me!"

Google Reviews

Shana De Caro & Michael V. Kaplen

Free Consultation

With over 45 years experience in vehicle accident law and bus accident cases, our partners Shana De Caro and Michael V. Kaplen help our clients get the justice and compensation they deserve. Our attorneys have the passion and persistence to take on any bus accident case in New York—and win.

Call today on (212) 732 2262 or email help@brainlaw.com to arrange your free consultation.

Our Partners, Shana De Caro and Michael V. Kaplen Handle Your Bus Accident Case From Start To Finish

When you hire De Caro & Kaplen, LLP for your bus accident case in New York our partners Shana De Caro and Michael V. Kaplen will personally handle your case from start to finish. Unlike some other prominent NYC firms, who will hand your case off to a paralegal, Shana and Michael, who each have over 45 years experience in personal injury and vehicle accident law, will personally work on your behalf to ensure you receive the justice and compensation you deserve, preparing every case as if it will go to trial.

Shana De Caro - Senior Partner and Personal Injury attorney at the New York law firm De Caro & Kaplen, LLP

Shana De Caro - Senior Partner and Personal Injury Attorney

  • Over 45 years of experience specifically handling complex personal injury, vehicle accident, and bus accident cases in New York.
  • Multi-year New York Super Lawyer.
  • A history of multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements for her bus accident clients.
  • Served on the Advisory Board of the Interstate Bus Accident Litigation Group of the American Association for Justice.
  • Served two terms as Chairwoman of The Brain Injury Association of America.
  • Served as Secretary and Trustee of the Civil Justice Foundation, supporting public interest litigation and access to the civil justice system.
  • Fellow of the American Bar Foundation and Litigation Counsel of America.
  • Member of the Board of Directors of the New York State Academy of Trial Lawyers.
  • Published in New York Law Journal, National Law Journal, Trial Magazine, Psychiatric Clinics of North America.
  • Lecturer for the American Association for Justice, New York State Academy of Trial Lawyers, and North American Brain Injury Society.
  • Recognized for advancing standards of practice in brain injury and medical negligence litigation.

Read Shana De Caro's full bio.

Michael V. Kaplen - Senior Partner and personal injury attorney at the New York law firm De Caro & Kaplen, LLP

Michael V. Kaplen - Senior Partner and Personal Injury Attorney

  • Over 45 years of experience specifically handling complex personal injury, vehicle accident, and bus accident cases in New York.
  • Multi-year New York Super Lawyer.
  • A history of multi-million dollar award settlements for his bus accident clients.
  • Served on the Advisory Board of the Interstate Bus Accident Litigation Group of the American Association for Justice.
  • Triple board-certified by the National Board of Trial Advocacy in: Civil Trial Law, Medical Malpractice, Civil Pretrial Practice Advocacy
  • Professorial Lecturer in Law, The George Washington University Law School (“The Legal Aspects of Traumatic Brain Injury”)
  • Taught courses in medical malpractice as well as trial practice techniques at St. John’s University School of Law.
  • Served as President, Brain Injury Association of New York State.
  • Consistently listed among the Top 100 New York Trial Lawyers and Top 25 Brain Injury Attorneys in the nation.
  • Public Justice Achievement Award (for pro bono representation of September 11th victims)

Read Michael V. Kaplen's full bio.

How De Caro & Kaplen, Prepares Your Bus Accident Case

When we take on a bus accident case our Partners Shana De Caro and Michael V. Kaplen engage all the necessary experts, including medical and accident reconstruction experts to conduct a rigorous investigation into the crash and your injuries. Our process involves:

  • Reviewing police reports and photographs
  • Evaluating weather conditions at the time of the incident
  • Interviewing passengers and eyewitnesses
  • Reviewing medical records
  • Researching the bus company’s driver hiring practices
  • Examining the bus driver’s driving record

A recent case involved a tour bus that sustained a tire blowout and veered off the roadway, causing the bus to flip over. This resulted in multiple injuries and deaths to the bus occupants. Our attorneys successfully proved that the bus driver was speeding, the bus tire was defective, and the bus manufacturer failed to provide necessary seat belts. Because of our investigation and expert analysis, we achieved multi-million dollar settlements for our clients.

Types of Damages De Caro & Kaplen, LLP Can Recover in a New York Bus Accident Case

If you or a loved one were injured in a bus accident in New York, you may be entitled to compensation for a variety of losses, including:

  • Medical Expenses: This includes past and future medical bills, hospital stays, doctor visits, physical therapy, rehabilitation, and prescription medications.
  • Lost Wages: You can recover lost income from being unable to work due to your injuries. This includes past lost wages and future lost earning capacity.
  • Pain and Suffering: You can be compensated for the physical pain, emotional distress, and mental anguish caused by your injuries.
  • Property Damage: If your personal property was damaged in the accident, such as your vehicle, bicycle, or personal belongings, you can recover the cost of repair or replacement.
  • Punitive Damages: In cases where the bus company or driver acted with gross negligence or recklessness, you may be able to recover punitive damages, which are intended to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar conduct in the future.
  • Other Expenses: You may also be able to recover other expenses related to your injuries, such as transportation costs to medical appointments, home healthcare expenses, and the cost of assistive devices.

The specific damages you can recover will depend on the facts of your case and the extent of your (or a loved one's) injuries. Our attorneys will ensure that claims are made for all damages you may be entitled to.

Frequently Asked Questions

Below are some common questions we are asked by clients when taking on a bus accident case in New York.

How quickly do I need to file a claim after a bus accident in New York?

New York State law mandates that a Notice of Claim must be filed with the appropriate government entity within 90 days of your bus accident. Missing this deadline can be critical for your case.

Does De Caro & Kaplen, LLP have experience with claims against the MTA or NYCTA?

Yes, our firm has extensive experience handling claims against government entities like the MTA, NYCTA, and MABSTOA. We understand the specific procedures and requirements involved in these complex cases.

What is New York's No-Fault Insurance, and how does it apply to my bus accident?

New York's No-Fault law, also known as Personal Injury Protection (PIP), ensures that your medical bills and lost wages can be covered after a bus accident, regardless of who was at fault. We can help you navigate these benefits.

What is the 'Serious Injury' threshold in New York for bus accident lawsuits?

To pursue damages for pain and suffering or other non-economic losses in New York, your injuries must meet a specific 'serious injury' threshold. We assess whether your injuries qualify under state law.

What are the deadlines for filing a bus accident claim against the MTA in New York?

New York law limits the amount of time you have to file a personal injury lawsuit and we would urge you to start the legal process as soon as possible after your accident. While specifics may vary, here is some important information for New York bus crash and accident cases:

MTA, and New York City Transit Authority related cases trigger a 90-day written notice requirement and a compressed 1 year and 90 day statute of limitations.

Missing any notice or filing deadline is usually fatal to the claim, so if you or a loved one have been injured in a bus accident in New York we would urge you to contact us for a free consultation as soon as possible.

Does De Caro & Kaplen, LLP have a specialized team for bus accident cases?

Our firm has dedicated over 45 years to personal injury law including bus accidents. Our partners Shana De Caro and Michael V. Kaplen served on the Advisory Board of the Interstate Bus Accident Litigation Group, demonstrating our deep focus and expertise in bus accident law.

Has De Caro & Kaplen, LLP achieved significant settlements in bus accident cases?

Yes, we have a proven track record of multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements for our bus accident clients, including a $3,500,000 settlement for a tour bus passenger and a $1,390,000 settlement for a client involved in a bus rear-end collision.

Are De Caro & Kaplen's partners recognized by Super Lawyers or Best Lawyers?

Our partners, Shana De Caro and Michael Kaplen, are both multi-year New York Super Lawyers and are consistently recognized by The Best Lawyers in America, reflecting their high standing among peers.

Does De Caro & Kaplen, LLP have any disciplinary actions against them?

Our firm maintains an impeccable professional record. Our partners hold numerous leadership roles in legal organizations, and Michael Kaplen is triple board-certified, underscoring our commitment to ethical and high-quality legal practice.

 

Start Your Bus Accident Case Today With a Free, No Obligation Consultation

Your bus accident case starts with one conversation, directly with one of our partners, Shana De Caro or Michael Kaplen.

Why act today?

Because the earlier you file a claim, the better. Missing deadlines will mean your case is unable to move forward.

  • No upfront cost – We’re paid only if we win for you.
  • Personal attention – Your case is handled start-to-finish by our partners, not passed to a junior associate.
  • Proven results – Multi-million-dollar recoveries for New Yorkers injured buses

Don’t let evidence disappear or deadlines expire. Reach out now, and let’s start building the strongest claim possible, together.

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Contact Us

The Brain Injury Law Firm ®
Toll Free: (866) 272-4652
(212) 732-2262
help@brainlaw.com 
Manhattan Offices:
De Caro & Kaplen, LLP
228 E. 45th Street, Suite 1100, New York, NY 10017

De Caro & Kaplen, LLP
860 United Nations Plaza, Suite 27A
New York,
NY 10017
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Areas We Serve

We are based in Manhattan, and serve the entire State of New York including New York City, the Bronx, Brooklyn, Manhattan, Staten Island and Queens. We also serve Nassau and Suffolk, Rockland, Westchester Counties, Albany, Buffalo, Rochester and Syracuse and surrounding areas.

Practice Areas

Attorney Advertising** | Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. The information on this website is for general information purposes only. Nothing on this site should be taken as legal advice for any individual case or situation. This information is not intended to create, and receipt or viewing does not constitute, an attorney-client relationship.

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