diff --git a/platypush/backend/pushbullet/__init__.py b/platypush/backend/pushbullet/__init__.py
index a9b87074..b15a9b63 100644
--- a/platypush/backend/pushbullet/__init__.py
+++ b/platypush/backend/pushbullet/__init__.py
@@ -27,8 +27,9 @@ class PushbulletBackend(Backend):
     @staticmethod
     def _on_error(ws, e):
         logging.exception(e)
-        self.ws.close()
-        self._init_socket()
+        backend = ws.backend
+        ws.close()
+        backend._init_socket()
 
     def _get_latest_push(self):
         t = int(time.time()) - 2