Whiplash injuries claims

Whiplash is a very common injury which occurs as a result of a road accident. This usually occurs as a result of a head on collision although it can also develop from a rear end shunt.

Our roads are becoming busier and even though most people drive carefully and with regard to other road users, accidents still happen. These collisions result in injuries which range from relatively mild through to potentially life threatening.

However there is one injury which is often common to all accidents which is whiplash.

Most people who suffer from whiplash make a full recovery but there are a few who find that they are left with some permanent damage.

If you have been involved in an accident which has resulted in whiplash then you may be able to claim compensation.

Whiplash

This is the medical term for soft tissue damage in the neck or spine caused by forceful movements to the body. It usually occurs when the head or neck is rapidly jerked forward and backwards which puts an unnecessary strain on the soft tissues within those areas.

Symptoms of whiplash include headaches, pain in the neck or shoulders and pins and a tingling sensation in the arms and legs.

Whiplash is painful but it does ease after a period of time. But if it persists then it can lead to long term health problems which have a detrimental effect upon you and your family.

Effects of whiplash

If you develop whiplash following a road accident in most cases this will disappear without the need for treatment. However there are cases where it persists which cause additional problems.

For example: if you have to time off work as a result of your injury then this has an immediate impact on your standard of living. The subsequent loss of earnings (and possibly pension rights) reduces your family income which may result in financial hardship.

The on top of this there are the costs of specialist treatment such as physiotherapy, medication etc.

All of these cause additional stress for you and your family.

If this has happened to you then you may be entitled to compensation.

Making a claim for compensation for whiplash

Find a personal injury solicitor or law firm who have many years of experience in handling these types of claims. They will have knowledge and expertise related to the field of road accident claims and whiplash and will be able to advise you accordingly.

They should treat your claim with understanding and sensitivity and provide help and support throughout the entire process. The claims process should be explained to you along with the importance of having grounds for compensation.

As with any personal injury claim the onus is on proving that another person’s negligence or lack of care has resulted in your whiplash. Any evidence that you have to support your claim will further improve the chances of obtaining compensation.

For more information about the claims process, visit our making a claim for compensation section.

Time limit for claiming compensation for whiplash

Claims for personal injury compensation have strict deadlines, usually of 3 years from the date of the accident or initial diagnosis of the illness.

But you may wish to check with your personal injury lawyer or solicitor about this. It is important that you are aware of this and make a claim within the time limit.