Queens Bus Collision on Sanford Avenue Raises Questions of Negligence and MTA Liability

More than a dozen people were injured Monday morning when two Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) buses collided on Sanford Avenue near Bowne Street in Flushing, according to police reports.

The incident occurred around 9 a.m. when one bus rear-ended another as both approached the intersection. Police said one driver and sixteen passengers were transported to nearby hospitals with minor injuries. Investigators stated that the crash does not appear to involve any criminal activity, though the cause remains under review.

Impact on Commuters and Bus Service Disruptions

According to the MTA, at least one of the buses involved was operating along the Q27 route. The collision caused temporary disruptions to several nearby routes, including the Q13, Q26, and Q65. Those buses were rerouted in both directions as crews worked to clear the scene, and stops at Kissena Boulevard and Sanford Avenue were temporarily suspended.

Video footage captured by Citizen showed significant front-end damage to one of the buses, including a mangled front door. Tow trucks were later seen removing the vehicle from the scene.

Understanding Liability and Claims Against the MTA

Victims of MTA bus accidents have the right to pursue personal injury claims for damages resulting from negligence, driver error, or improper vehicle maintenance. In cases involving public transportation authorities, strict timelines apply — specifically, the Notice of Claim requirement under New York General Municipal Law § 50-e, which mandates filing within 90 days of the incident.

Even low-impact collisions can lead to soft tissue injuries, whiplash, or traumatic brain injuries, which may not be immediately apparent. Prompt medical evaluation and documentation are critical for both recovery and legal purposes.

Why Legal Representation Matters

Claims against the MTA and other municipal entities require navigating complex procedural rules and evidentiary standards. An experienced bus accident lawyer can investigate whether negligence, inadequate driver training, or maintenance failures contributed to the crash — and ensure all filing deadlines are met.

Our attorneys at Gair, Gair, Conason, Rubinowitz, Bloom, Hershenhorn, Steigman & Mackauf have extensive experience litigating cases involving MTA buses and other mass-transit vehicles. We have secured substantial recoveries for passengers, pedestrians, and motorists injured due to municipal negligence and reckless operation.

Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer

If you or someone you love was injured in this recent Flushing MTA bus crash, you may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost income, and pain and suffering. 
Learn more about your rights by visiting our Queens personal injury lawyer page or contacting our office for a free consultation.

Picture: by Tdorante10 Courtesy of Wikipedia