If a distracted or poorly trained bus driver injured you in an accident, you might wonder, “How much can I expect from a bus accident settlement?” After all, you’ll want to find a way to cover your injury-related costs like hospital and ambulance bills, prescription medications, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
The amount you receive from your bus collision settlement depends on the extent of your injuries and the specific facts in your case. No two crashes are alike, even if they involve similar scenarios, so it’s important to talk to an attorney and get personalized legal advice. You don’t want to miss out on the compensation you need simply because you didn’t consult an experienced lawyer.
What Can I Get in a Bus Accident Settlement?
Pennsylvania law allows people to pursue compensation for many types of expenses after a bus accident. In some cases, your insurance covers the cost of the damages. However, you may need to file a lawsuit to get additional money to cover the rest.
The final settlement you receive may include the following:
- Pain and suffering to address the discomfort, stress, and inconvenience of being in a bus accident
- Medical bills (like surgeries, hospital stays, and treatments)
- Money to repair your vehicle or buy a new one (if this applies)
- Payments to address the loss of life’s pleasures (like going on walks with your family or engaging in your hobbies)
- Money to make up for lost income from having to take time off work
Fair settlements typically include payments to cover past expenses (like surgeries) and future expenses (like physical therapy). If you need help understanding how to add up your costs, don’t hesitate to talk to a lawyer experienced in handling bus accident settlements. They know what makes a good settlement proposal and can help you secure the compensation you need.
Tips for Negotiating a Fair Settlement
Negotiating a bus accident settlement can be difficult, but there are tips to help you get the most out of your case. The first tip is not to sign the first offer you receive from the insurance company. Often, this offer isn’t the best one you can get, despite what the insurance company may tell you.
In fact, you shouldn’t sign anything without talking to an attorney. A bus accident lawyer can review your claim and add up your expenses to find a fair settlement range. They can use their knowledge and research to work with the insurance company and at-fault party to increase the amount you get for your injuries.
Don’t attempt to take on the process alone. Insurance companies and at-fault drivers are more likely to take you and your claim seriously if you have a lawyer on your side. Rather than leaving it up to chance, working with a respected and trusted attorney can give you the best shot at a favorable result.
Consult a Lawyer on What to Expect from Your Bus Accident Settlement
If you were injured in a bus accident, you may have many questions. How do you calculate your expenses? How much money can you reasonably expect from a settlement? Do you need to place the public transit authority or the City on notice of a claim, or overcome any immunity issues? Most settlements include the injured person’s past and future costs related to their injuries and accident. An attorney can help you prepare a fair settlement and protect you against the tactics used by insurance companies and at-fault parties to diminish your claim.
Ostroff Godshall Injury and Accident Lawyers fight fearlessly for people in your situation. We understand how devastating these incidents can be and are dedicated to helping you and your family seek justice. Contact a bus accident attorney at our office to discuss your case.
