Personal Injury Law

Are Shields Enough to Protect NYC Bus Drivers from Violence?

By Paul Napoli

January 3, 2010

A Metropolitan Transit Authority (MTA) New York City Transit bus with a shield installed to protect the driver is operating on the same route where a violent passenger killed a driver in 2008.

This bus on the B46 line in Brooklyn is one of 100 such buses that will be part of a pilot program of MTA NYC Transit.

MTA NYC Transit worked with drivers and the Transport Workers Union Local 100 to design the shield, but some drivers are concerned that the shield may not offer enough protection from a determined assaulter. Although the transparent barrier partitions much of the driver compartment from the passenger area, there is an opening between the fare box and the windshield where an assailant could access the secure area.

A passenger who skipped on a fare attacked, repeatedly stabbed and killed MTA NYC Transit bus driver Edwin Thomas, 46, in December of 2008. More than 300 physical assaults on drivers were reported in 2009.

If you have been injured on the job, you may be entitled to compensation such as medical expenses and lost wages for your injuries, or if your loved one has been injured or killed while on the job, you may be entitled to compensation such as funeral expenses or loss of financial support. At Napoli Bern Ripka, LLP we are experienced in personal injury and wrongful death lawsuits. Contact us to discuss your case and recover the compensation you deserve at 888-529-4669 or visit www.NapoliBern.com today.

Full post as published by New York City Personal Injury Lawyer on January 03, 2010 (boomark / email).