A whiplash injury is a form of neck sprain that occurs when a person's head is jolted backwards and forwards in a sudden, whip-like movement. The violent movement of the neck causes the muscles and ligaments in the neck to stretch and whilst many whiplash injuries are overcome in a relatively short time, it is possible to suffer prolonged injuries and even spinal cord damage.
Whiplash is most commonly associated with road traffic accidents, with around 2 in every 3 people involved in a car accident thought to suffer from some form of neck pain or whiplash injury symptoms.
How Is Whiplash Caused?
Whiplash is most commonly caused when vehicles collide at lower speeds, resulting in the occupants of a vehicle experiencing a sudden and violent head movement. Whiplash can also occur after a slip, trip of fall, as a result of a sporting injury, or after a physical attack.
What Are The Symptoms Of Whiplash?
Common physical complaints after suffering whiplash include:
- Pain and aches in the neck. In some cases this can lead to muscle spasms, headaches and migraines and pain developing in the shoulder, back and arm areas.
- You may find it difficult to turn or bend your neck, as well as experiencing stiffness in your arms and shoulders.
- Other symptoms can include dizziness and nausea, but in many cases the injured party will not feel any discomfort until a day or two after the accident. In any instance, as soon as you have been involved in a road traffic accident you should contact your doctor or GP.
Can I Make A Whiplash Injury Claim?
Whether you are currently suffering from whiplash or any other injury related to a road traffic accident, if you can prove that a third party is to blame you have sufficient grounds for a personal injury compensation claim.
You could make a claim if you were the driver, passenger or even a pedestrian in a road traffic accident and believe that you may be suffering from symptoms of a whiplash injury. Our specialist solicitors can assess your injuries and the circumstances surrounding your accident to give you honest, expert advice on any potential claim.
How Can Irwin Mitchell Help With My Whiplash Claim?
Irwin Mitchell has a team of specialist solicitors with in-depth knowledge of whiplash claims.
From your initial consultation, our experts will examine the merits of your case and give you honest, plain-English advice on your claim.
Throughout the claims process, we can assist with your healthcare arrangements and, in more serious cases; we can also provide support to both you and your family throughout your rehabilitation.
We promise to handle your whiplash compensation claim with expertise and understanding and above all, we put you first.
How Do I Make A Compensation Claim For Whiplash?
The first thing you we will attempt to do is establish liability for the accident and your whiplash injuries. If the road traffic accident was not your fault you should have excellent grounds for a successful claim.
If you are able, it is a good idea to take name and contact details of anyone who has witnessed the accident. If the party responsible for the road traffic accident has no valid insurance or is driving a stolen vehicle you should contact the police immediately.
It is worth considering that you may also be able to make a claim for other expenses such as prescriptions or travelling costs. Be sure to keep a copy of any receipts to document your expenses.
If you feel you would like to make a whiplash injury claim as a result of a road traffic accident, contact Irwin Mitchell's expert team of personal injury solicitors today. Simply complete our road traffic accident personal injury claim form and we will contact you to discuss your case further.