Compare Whiplash Compensation Claims
Whiplash injuries can cause severe pain and have a major impact on your physical and psychological wellbeing. If you have suffered whiplash as a result of an accident that wasn’t your fault, you may be entitled to claim compensation.
Compare personal injury solicitors today to find the best company for whiplash claims and to start the process of receiving the compensation you deserve.
What is whiplash?
Whiplash is a type of neck injury involving damage to the soft tissue in the neck. It is caused by a sudden movement of the head forwards, sideways or backwards. This vigorous motion damages the tendons and ligaments in the neck.
Also sometimes called neck strain, whiplash can take a long time to heal. In some cases, it takes many months for the damage to be repaired. During this time, it can cause pain and stiffness, and in some cases a temporary loss of movement in the neck. Other symptoms can include headaches, pain in the shoulders, arms and back, and muscle spasms.
Whiplash is often caused by road traffic accidents, where collisions can jolt the head forcefully. It can also be a result of a violent blow to the head, for example as a result of a fall or during contact sports such as rugby or boxing.
The symptoms of whiplash don’t always show up straight away. It is common for them to develop and worsen several hours after an accident.
If you experience tingling or pins and needles down one or both sides of your body, you have difficulty sitting or walking upright, your legs or arms feel weak or you have a sudden electric shock-type sensation in your back and neck, this could be a sign that you have suffered damage to the nerves in this part of your body. In these cases, you should make an urgent GP appointment or call 111.
How is whiplash treated?
It is recommended to seek medical treatment either from your GP or by visiting a hospital if you have suffered a whiplash injury. You might be advised to take over-the-counter painkillers for the discomfort and inflammation and/or to apply ice to the affected area. If your pain is severe, your doctor may prescribe a stronger painkiller.
Medical experts advise that, if possible, you should continue with everyday activities. Although this may cause some discomfort, it should help to speed up your recovery. If your symptoms don’t start to improve after a few weeks, your doctor may refer you to a pain specialist or physiotherapist. They might also recommend psychological support.
Physio treatment may not be available through the NHS in your area, or the waiting list may be long. In these cases, you may decide to get this treatment privately. If you make a whiplash compensation claim, the defendant’s representatives may offer to fund private physio treatment. Alternatively, it may be possible to fund this yourself and then claim the money back from the defendant’s representatives. A personal injury solicitor will be able to advise you on this.
How much compensation could I receive for a whiplash injury?
The amount of money you may receive for your whiplash compensation claim will depend on factors including the level of discomfort you experience and how long your symptoms last. You can claim for pain, suffering and loss of amenities, as well as for other related losses, such as property damage, medical expenses and loss of earnings.
View our claims calculator to get an idea of the average claim amounts for whiplash injuries.
How do I make a whiplash claim?
There are a number of steps involved in making a compensation claim for whiplash.
- Swap contact details with all parties involved
Make sure you exchange contact details with all the parties involved in the incident. If your injury was caused by a road traffic accident, make a note of the number plates of the vehicles too.
- Gather evidence
If possible, gather evidence of the accident. For example, take photographs of the scene of the incident and of any damage incurred. You should also try to get the contact details of any witnesses present at the time.
- Let your insurer know
If you were driving at the time of the accident, make sure you contact your insurer.
- Seek medical attention
Even if you feel that your symptoms are manageable, it is important to seek medical help. Your symptoms may worsen over time, and when making a compensation claim, you may be asked for copies of the relevant medical records to prove that you suffered the injury and to show the extent of the damage.
- Contact a solicitor
Get in touch with a legal expert to start the claims process and help you secure the maximum amount of compensation.
Which is the best whiplash claims company in the UK?
If you have suffered this type of injury and want to find the best whiplash claims company to take your case forward, we can help.
Use our website to compare expert personal injury solicitors to assist you with your whiplash compensation claim.