If you have been involved in an accident that is not your fault, you need to claim compensation from the at-fault party. One of the injuries associated with car accidents is whiplash. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety reports, whiplash injuries account for one-third of insurance injury claims. Here is some basic information on whiplash personal injury claims.
What Is Whiplash?
Whiplash refers to neck injuries. It applies to soft tissue damage to your neck. Whiplash accidents are common in rear-end auto accidents.
When a vehicle is rear-ended, this impact forces the driver's and passenger's bodies to move forward while their heads remain in place. This exposes the neck to extension and flexion. Therefore, neck injuries are caused by extreme jerking or snapping, commonly known as whiplash.
When Should You File a Lawsuit for Whiplash Injuries?
If you do not get compensation from your insurance adjuster, you should consider filing a personal injury lawsuit. Let a lawyer review your case and advise you on your state's laws and the probable outcome of your claim.
In no-fault states, filing a lawsuit for whiplash injuries is challenging because of damage requirements. You may be able to get compensation for economic damages such as medical expenses and loss of income. Your attorney may also claim non-economic damages like pain and suffering for you.
How Does Your Injury Affect Your Claim?
Some whiplash injuries go away after a few days. However, if you experience lingering symptoms like numbness, stiffness, limited mobility, and pain, you have something more severe than a standard whiplash.
Long-term symptoms indicate you have damaged your cervical spine. This may include injury to discs or intervertebral joints. Another possibility is that you have injuries in the nerve roots of your neck. The extent of your injuries will affect your claim. For example, for long-term symptoms, you may have to claim temporary disability.
What Do You Need to Make a Whiplash Personal Injury Claim?
To make a whiplash personal injury claim, you need to present medical records showing the injuries you have suffered. You should also collect the bills you have received, including prescription and over-the-counter medications. Make sure you include hospital and doctor records, diagnostic testing results, emergency room records, and discharge instructions.
Additionally, you will require detailed statements from your medical practitioner. If your injuries have caused permanent damage, your doctor should indicate the types of care you need in the future. Contact an attorney, such as Phillip Koutsogiane Attorney at Law, for more information.
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