Case Info
Seeger Weiss is investigating an August 22 bus crash that resulted in dozens of injuries and five deaths. The bus was returning to New York City from Niagara Falls when it appeared to lose control and overturn.
The catastrophic crash occurred near Pembroke, New York—about 20 miles east of Buffalo. Five people were killed and at least 30 were treated at local hospitals after many passengers were ejected from the bus. The vehicle was carrying 54 people, including the driver and another company employee.
According to police, the bus was traveling eastbound when it lost control, veered into the median, and then into a ditch after overcorrecting. The bus was reportedly going at full speed but did not strike another vehicle. After the accident, witnesses described large amounts of glass and debris—including passengers’ belongings—scattered across the roadway.
At least 21 adult patients were treated at one hospital, while nine others— including at least one child—were treated at other facilities. The response involved multiple ambulances and medical helicopters. Fourteen patients were hospitalized for at least 24 hours but were expected to survive.
The bus is owned by M&Y Tour Inc., based in Staten Island. In the two years before the crash, the U.S. Department of Transportation inspected the company’s buses 43 times. In nine of those inspections, violations required buses to be temporarily removed from service—an out-of-service rate of 21%. M&Y drivers were tested 60 times during the same period, resulting in one driver being removed from service.
A new New York State law requires charter bus passengers age 8 and older to wear seat belts. If passengers are found not wearing seat belts, they can be cited and fined $50. However, the law does not require bus drivers to notify riders that seat belts are required or to check whether passengers have buckled up.
State Police Major Andre Ray said shortly after the crash that the driver may have been distracted, though he did not elaborate. Police reportedly ruled out impairment and mechanical failure, and noted that the number of ejections may indicate many passengers were not wearing seat belts.
The National Transportation Safety Board, along with the New York State Police and the State Department of Transportation’s Motor Carrier Compliance Bureau, will conduct a full safety investigation.
Seeger Weiss has previously represented multiple clients who were victims of bus crashes, securing millions of dollars in settlements for victims and their families. Past cases have included the “Windsor Wildcats” bus crash in Geneseo, New York where Seeger Weiss represented a total of eleven victims of the accident and their families.
If you or a family member were involved in the M&Y Tour Inc. bus crash near Pembroke, New York, you may be eligible for compensation.