When most people in New Jersey step onto a bus, whether it's near Newark Airport, in downtown Jersey City, or along busy corridors like Route 4 and Route 17, they expect safety. After all, NJ Transit carries hundreds of thousands of riders every day, and motorists sharing the road with buses also trust that these professional drivers will follow the rules. Unfortunately, when accidents happen, the results can be devastating. A single collision involving a bus can lead to serious injuries, massive property damage, and complicated questions about liability.

A recent appellate court decision in New Jersey sheds light on just how complex these cases can be. In a lawsuit arising from a 2018 bus accident near Newark Airport, the plaintiff argued that a NJ Transit driver's negligence caused her injuries. But the New Jersey Superior Court's Appellate Division ultimately dismissed her case, finding that the evidence didn't support her claims. Law360 reports that surveillance footage and onboard cameras told a different story than the plaintiff's testimony — showing how critical solid evidence can be in these cases.

For accident victims and their families, this case is a reminder that taking on a public transit agency is no simple task. NJ Transit, like other government entities, has powerful defenses and legal protections. That doesn't mean justice is impossible — but it does mean you need an experienced legal team that knows how to gather evidence, meet strict deadlines, and push back against agencies and their insurers. At Khorozian Law Group, we've been helping New Jersey residents navigate these exact challenges for more than 15 years.

Understanding NJ Transit Liability and New Jersey Law

Public transportation accidents in New Jersey are governed by both state tort law and special rules that apply when suing a government agency. Victims must:

• File aNotice of Claim within 90 days of the accident under the New Jersey Tort Claims Act.

• Prove negligence by showing that the driver or agency acted unreasonably.

• Meet a verbal threshold for damages, which requires evidence of permanent injury in many cases.

In this case, the Appellate Division of the New Jersey Superior Court found that bus-mounted cameras and surveillance footage contradicted the plaintiff's testimony. Because the evidence showed that the driver did not leave his lane, speed, or drive distracted, the court held that NJ Transit could not be found negligent.

This legal outcome highlights the importance of evidence preservation in accident cases. Collecting surveillance footage, police reports, medical records, and eyewitness statements immediately after a crash is critical to proving liability.

Local Context: Newark Airport, Essex County, and Northern NJ

The accident at issue happened near Newark Liberty International Airport, at the intersection of Lindbergh Road and the Terminal A access ramp. Busy intersections like these in Essex County are common sites for collisions involving buses, cars, and pedestrians.

Our firm frequently represents clients injured in high-traffic areas throughout Bergen, Hudson, Essex, and Passaic Counties — including dangerous stretches of Route 4, Route 17, I-80, and the New Jersey Turnpike. These roadways are heavily traveled by commuters, commercial trucks, and buses, which increases the risk of catastrophic injuries.

If you were injured in a public transit accident in Newark or anywhere across Northern New Jersey, our team can help you navigate the unique challenges of claims against agencies like NJ Transit.

What Should You Do After a Bus Accident in NJ?

If you or a loved one is injured in a bus or transit accident:

1. Seek immediate medical care – Your health comes first, and medical records are essential for your claim.

2. Report the accident – File a police report and, if possible, obtain an incident report from the bus company.

3. Gather evidence – Photos, video, witness names, and contact info can help prove your case.

4. Speak with an attorney quickly – Because of the 90-day deadline under NJ law, waiting too long could bar your claim entirely.

FAQs About NJ Bus Accident Lawsuits

Can I sue NJ Transit if I was hurt in a bus accident?
Yes, but strict deadlines apply under the New Jersey Tort Claims Act. Filing quickly with the help of an experienced New Jersey car accident lawyer is critical.

What damages can I recover after a bus accident?
Compensation may include medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, and pain and suffering. A skilled personal injury attorney can also help pursue economic damages and non-economic damages.

Do I really need an attorney for a public transit accident case?
Yes. NJ Transit and its insurers often fight claims aggressively. Working with a trusted accident lawyer in Northern New Jersey improves your chances of success in settlement negotiations or trial.

How Khorozian Law Group Can Help

At Khorozian Law Group, we understand how overwhelming life can feel after a serious accident. Whether you need a New Jersey car accident lawyerNew Jersey car accident lawyerJersey car accident lawyerNew Jersey car accident lawyerNew Jersey car accident lawyeror a personal injury attorney in NJpersonal injury attorney in NJ, or legal guidance after a public transit collision, our attorneys are here to fight for you.

We also represent injured workers across New Jersey. If you are a bus driver, transit employee, or any worker hurt on the job, our experienced workers’ compensation lawyers can guide you through the workers’ compensation claim process and fight for the benefits you deserve.

📞If you or a loved one has been injured in a bus accident, auto accident, or workplace accident, don't face the legal process alone. Call (201) 944-9200 or Contact Us online today for a free consultation.