Can You Sue For a Violent Subway Attack in New York?

New Yorkers are becoming well-acquainted with rising levels of violence in the subway system, to the point where many simply avoid public transit altogether. People have been stabbed, sexually assaulted, shoved onto the tracks, and much more. But what can you do if you have experienced these attacks? Is it possible to hold the subway system accountable as you sue and recover compensation?

Violence Becoming All too Common on New York’s Subway System 

Each month, numerous people suffer attacks on the subway system in New York. August of 2023 has been no different. On August 26th of 2023, it was reported that a commuter had been knocked out on the train in Queens. He made the mistake of falling asleep on the attacker’s shoulder. Presumably, this individual was just trying to get home after a long day at work.

While being knocked out cold is certainly not something anyone wants to experience on their way home, being stabbed is another matter altogether. Also on August 26th of 2023, it was reported that two stabbings had occurred within a few minutes in different stations. The first involved a 50-year-old man being stabbed in the skull. He was rushed to the hospital, and he is expected to make a full recovery. The second incident involved a man being stabbed in the stomach, and this second victim is also expected to make a full recovery. Perhaps most notably, no arrests have been made in connection to either stabbing – suggesting a major security failure for the authorities in New York.

Two days prior, a woman pleaded guilty to fatally shoving an 87-year-old woman in Chelsea Park. Although this incident did not take place in a subway station, it indicates the extreme level of violence that has become common throughout public areas – including streets, train platforms, and other locations.

 Can You Sue the MTA for Acts of Violence? 

When you become a paying customer of the MTA, this government organization takes on a certain duty of care. They are responsible for providing you with a safe space. Not only does this include walkways and stairs free from tripping hazards, but it also includes spaces free from violent individuals. It is therefore possible to file a negligent security lawsuit against the MTA under certain circumstances.

Where Can I Find a Qualified, Experienced Personal Injury Attorney in New York? 

If you have suffered any kind of injury while traveling on New York’s subway system, consider getting in touch with a qualified, experienced New York personal injury attorney. With help from Cohan Law, PLLC, you can assess your legal options and determine the best route toward compensation. Whether you have been assaulted or you have suffered a slip and fall, injuries on the subway system are often compensable. Book your consultation today to get started with an effective action plan.

Sources: 

nypost.com/2023/08/26/nyc-commuter-knocks-out-stranger-who-fell-asleep-on-him-on-queens-subway/

abc7ny.com/nyc-crime-subway-stabbing-manhattan-brooklyn/13705842/

cnn.com/2023/08/23/us/lauren-pazienza-pleads-guilty-vocal-coach-barbara-gustern/index.html