Rochester, NY (February 19, 2026) – A police pursuit on Tuesday, February 17, led to a serious crash involving a Regional Transit Service bus and a pedestrian at the intersection of Hudson Avenue and Clifford Avenue in Rochester.
The New York State Police said the incident began around 10:54 a.m. when troopers attempted to stop a Chevrolet Trax for Vehicle and Traffic Law violations. The driver did not comply and continued driving through the city. Authorities reported that the suspect ran a red light at Hudson Avenue and Clifford Avenue and struck a Regional Transit Service bus.
After the initial collision, the bus struck a female pedestrian who stood near the intersection. The bus then came to rest against a fence on church property. Officials confirmed that the church building did not sustain structural damage.
Emergency crews responded quickly to the scene. Firefighters extricated the pedestrian from beneath the bus. She remained conscious but suffered serious injuries, and paramedics transported her to Strong Memorial Hospital for treatment.
Officials said only the driver was aboard the bus at the time of the crash. He sustained minor injuries and also went to Strong Memorial Hospital for evaluation. Police identified the suspect driver as David Robinson, 42, of Rochester. Officers took him into custody at the scene and transported him to the hospital with serious injuries.
Investigators continue to review the circumstances surrounding the collision.
Our thoughts are with the injured pedestrian and others affected, and we wish them strength and recovery.
How Do Injury Claims Work in New York When Public Entities Are Involved?
In New York, injury claims involving public entities follow different rules from standard car accident cases. When a city agency, public bus system, or government vehicle plays a role in a crash, strict deadlines and notice requirements apply. Injured individuals must often file a Notice of Claim within 90 days of the incident to preserve their right to seek compensation.
New York operates under a no-fault insurance system. This means injured parties first turn to their own Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage for medical bills and lost wages, regardless of who caused the crash. However, when serious injuries occur, a person may step outside the no-fault system and pursue a claim against the at-fault party, including a public transportation authority.
Claims involving public entities, such as a city-operated bus system, often require additional procedural steps. The government agency may request a hearing under General Municipal Law Section 50-h before a lawsuit proceeds. Missing deadlines or failing to follow proper filing procedures can affect a claim.
Liability can also become complex in cases involving multiple parties. In a collision that includes a private vehicle, a public bus, and a pedestrian, investigators may examine the actions of each driver. Comparative fault rules in New York allow injured individuals to seek compensation even if more than one party shares responsibility.
A personal injury attorney who understands New York personal injury law can review police reports, medical records, and agency documents to explain available options. Legal guidance can clarify deadlines, required filings, and what types of compensation may apply for medical expenses, lost income, and other damages.
If you or a loved one suffered injuries in a crash involving a public entity in New York, Metro Law can provide clear information about your options. Our team has experience reviewing complex accident cases involving government agencies and public transportation systems.
We can discuss how no-fault benefits and potential claims may apply to your situation. Contact Metro Law at (800) 469-6476 to learn more about your next steps.
