Tips for Handling Whiplash Injury Compensation Claims

Whiplash injury compensation claims frequently arise as a result of auto accidents, but may also arise in relation to other types of accidents.  Whiplash is the most common injury associated with car accidents.  Whiplash occurs when the head and neck are suddenly thrown backward and forward as often happens in auto accidents. 

What are the Symptoms of Whiplash?

Whiplash is a soft tissue injury which may be accompanied by a variety of symptoms, including: 

• Neck pain;
• Upper back pain;
• Headaches;
• Dizziness;
• Blurred vision;
• Ringing in the ears;
• Decreased range of motion;
• Numbness or  feelings of “pins and needles”; and
• Memory loss and/or concentration problems. 

It is not uncommon for whiplash to cause permanent injury to the neck area as well as to the chest, arms, and hands, making a person much more susceptible to future injuries to those areas.  Although most whiplash symptoms disappear over time, in some instances, whiplash may be masking other much more serious injuries such as: 

• Joint damage;
• Disc damage;
• Ligament damage;
• Cervical spine damage; and
• Mild and traumatic brain damage. 

How is Whiplash Diagnosed?

Whiplash is easily diagnosed by the use of physical examinations, x-rays, CT scans, and MRI’s.   These diagnostic tests typically reveal issues with the cervical spine, vertebrae, and the neck. 

What If I Feel Fine Immediately After the Accident?

It is not unusual for the symptoms of whiplash to appear several hours after the accident or even within a day or two after the accident.  If this is the case, it’s important to seek medical attention as soon as symptoms appear.  Keep in mind that if you wait too long to seek medical treatment, it could impact your case negatively.   

On the other hand, if you feel any symptoms immediately after the accident, you should request to be transported to the emergency room via ambulance.  The paramedics will stabilize your neck to ensure that you don’t sustain any further damage or injury. 

At the time that you are examined by the doctor, it’s important to tell him how the accident happened and to accurately describe your symptoms and level of pain so that this information is properly documented in your medical records. 

It is also critical to your whiplash compensation claim that you follow the prescribed course of medical treatment.  Typically, whiplash will be treated with: 

• Cold and hot treatments;
• Electric muscle stimulation;
• Physical therapy; and
• Pain medication. 

Getting Legal Help

If you have suffered whiplash or any other soft tissue injury in an accident, don’t take for granted that your injuries will heal.  Sometimes whiplash can have a serious and long lasting impact of the health of a victim.  So, it’s important to consult with a personal injury lawyer as soon as possible in order to protect any legal claims you may have against the other driver.