USA Bus Lines

What dollar settlement will I get for a whiplash auto accident caused by a negligent tour bus driver?

I am 70 yrs. old and have been in constant pain. I can't swim because I can't rotate my neck. The bus driver has admitted guilt - I think I should be reimbursed for Dr. bills, travel to and from Dr. visits plus pain and suffering. I need a ballpark idea - I do not to hire an attorney if I don't have to.

Public Comments

1. In California, a typical settlement will cover your medical expenses and an equal amount to them for 'pain and suffering'. So, if you have $4000 in medical expenses, you may get a settlement in the ballpark of $8,000. Sadly, the money NEVER compensates for chronic pain. Best wishes and good luck.
2. More info is needed. Were you a passenger in the bus, or were you operating your vehicle. Where did this loss occur? Some states are No-Fault States requiring you to have PIP coverage, which will cover you for your meds/lost wages. Depending on the state where this happened, determines whether or not you are entitled to compensation. In some states, you need to meet certain tort threshold requirements. For example, in MA you need to incur $2k in meds, sustain a fracture, permanent scarring or have a permanent disability. Whiplash would not be considered a permanent disability. In NY, you must sustain a "serious" injury. Again, a whiplash injury would not be considered serious. Other states are verbal, you get your meds/wages and monetary compensation. If this accident just occurred and you are still treating, you would not be wise to settle. Wait until you reach an end result, meaning you are no longer treating. The insurance company will need to obtain all of your medical bills related to this loss. The offer will be based on your injury, length of disability and kind of treatment.