Brooklyn, NY (October 21, 2026) – At least 11 people were hurt in a crash involving an MTA bus and a private ambulance, according to the FDNY. It happened just after 5:30 p.m. on October 21 on the eastbound side of the Belt Parkway near Exit 15.
The FDNY said paramedics took 10 people to the hospital, and the 11th person declined transportation. One person had moderate injuries, and the other 10 had minor injuries, according to the FDNY.
The MTA confirmed that its bus was involved but gave no further details. The report does not say who was aboard either vehicle. The cause of the crash was not immediately known.
This is a developing story. Details may change as the investigation continues.
When a Transit Bus Is Involved in a Brooklyn Crash
The New York City Department of Transportation reported 47,557 traffic injuries citywide in 2025, a preliminary count as of December 15. A crash involving an MTA bus can also involve a public agency, which shortens the time to act.
Investigators have not said what caused this crash. Responsibility may rest with the bus operator and the MTA, the ambulance company, or both.
- First steps: Get checked by a doctor within 72 hours, since neck, back and head injuries can surface late. Ask for the crash report number, and note the bus number and route. Request any video early, because it can be overwritten.
- Who may be liable: A bus operator owes riders a duty of care as a common carrier. The private ambulance company may also answer for its driver’s actions.
- If fault is shared: Since May 26, 2026, CPLR § 1411(b) bars recovery in motor vehicle claims only when the injured person’s fault is greater than the defendants’ combined fault.
- Government notice: If the MTA or another public authority may be responsible, New York requires a notice of claim within 90 days (Gen. Mun. Law § 50-e), by January 19, 2027. Missing it usually ends the claim.
- Filing deadlines: A lawsuit against a public authority generally must be filed within one year and 90 days (Gen. Mun. Law § 50-i), by January 19, 2028. Private parties follow the three-year rule, October 21, 2029 (CPLR § 214).
How Frekhtman & Associates Helps After a Bus Accident in Brooklyn
A claim involving a transit bus runs on a clock measured in weeks, not years. Our Brooklyn bus accident attorneys send the notice of claim, preserve video and maintenance records, and handle every insurer and agency call.
Founding attorney Arkady Frekhtman has led the firm for more than 25 years, and we take cases to trial when an offer falls short.
What Brooklyn bus crash victims get with Frekhtman & Associates when a public agency may be involved:
- $900M+ recovered for injured New York clients across more than 25 years of practice
- $69,225,000 auto accident jury verdict, one of the largest in New York State history
- Free 24/7 consultations, including home and hospital visits for clients unable to travel
- Personal callbacks from founding attorney Arkady Frekhtman
- Russian-language services available
- Zero fees unless we win your case
- Brooklyn office at 60 Bay 26th St, serving families across the borough
Visit us at 60 Bay 26th St, Brooklyn, NY 11214, call 866-821-0718, or send the details through our contact form.
