Compensation for Whiplash Injuries Explained

Compensation for Whiplash Injuries Explained

Every year, more than three million Americans suffer from whiplash injuries. While many factors contribute to the prevalence of this wound, the delay in symptom manifestation commonly seen among patients is worth consideration.

Today’s blog will explain whiplash injuries in detail. After reading, you will understand why these cases are so high and learn best practices when pursuing restitution for damages caused by these injuries. Keep reading below. 

What is Whiplash? 

A whiplash injury occurs when the muscles and tendons in your neck are forced to move unnaturally due to force or strain. For example, if a vehicle hits yours from behind, the sudden impact causes the neck to move back and forth rapidly, like the cracking of a whip, hence the name whiplash. 

Of the three million Americans who suffer from whiplash injury every year, the majority are victims of rear-end collisions, sometimes at low speeds. What makes this injury unique is the fact that most patients walk away thinking they are fine because the symptoms can take days to show. 

Think of a situation where someone unknowingly sustains whiplash injury after a low-speed rear-end accident. It may be difficult to link the migraines, stiff neck, and limited movements to the accident once these symptoms start showing days later.

This is the fundamental reason why victims of vehicle collisions, no matter how severe, are advised to seek medical attention immediately after the crash, regardless of whether they have visible injuries or not. 

“Car accident victims should always get treated immediately. Seeing a doctor early enough can identify injuries like whiplash and also produce crucial evidence useful when filing a personal injury claim,” says personal injury attorney David W. Holub of the Law Offices of David W. Holub. 

The Consequences of Whiplash Injuries 

As mentioned earlier, whiplash symptoms take time to start showing. This is why many patients seek treatment when the injury has progressed. The first and most obvious sign is difficulty moving your head, which can affect mundane tasks like driving, working, and other basic daily tasks. 

Patients also report migraines and neck pain, which can make it difficult to sleep, sometimes to the point of insomnia. 

Treating a Whiplash Injury

The earlier you seek medical attention, the better because delayed treatment may exacerbate your symptoms, requiring months, if not years, of physical therapy and other procedures to fully treat the injury. 

Why You Need a Personal Injury Attorney

When the accident that caused your whiplash injury was not your fault, you are well within your rights to file a personal injury lawsuit against the at-fault party and their insurance. 

A qualified Indiana personal injury attorney will analyze your case, gather evidence, and trace and interview witnesses on your behalf. Additionally, they will negotiate with insurance adjusters and use their oratory skills together with evidence to secure maximum compensation for your damages. 

If negotiation with the insurance hits a wall, the case proceeds to trial. An experienced lawyer can prepare a strong case and call on expert witnesses like doctors to explain how your whiplash injuries have affected your life and the medical care that you will need going forward.

Conclusion  

If you were involved in an accident that led to these complications, it’s best to enlist the services of a qualified personal injury attorney to help pursue your claim. A qualified personal injury attorney can provide expert guidance and representation, ensuring that your rights are protected and that you receive fair compensation for your injuries and losses.