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Can I Sue For Whiplash?



What is Whiplash?

Whiplash occurs when there is a sudden movement of the head or neck that can lead to the tearing of muscle ligaments and other soft-tissues. It is most common in "rear-end" automobile collisions, but can really happen to just about anybody. Whiplash may occur at both high and low speeds, additionally, the onset of symptoms can be severe, even when there hasn't been a direct impact. Individuals can also sustain whiplash injuries without a direct impact. This can occur when you are the driver or passenger of a vehicle and the driver makes a forceful and sudden stop, causing your body to be thrown both forward then backward.

What is a Sudden Stop?

A sudden stop occurring when you are traveling in an automobile can be more serious than you expect. Sudden stops can cause neck, back, and spinal injuries, which can lead to long-term disabilities in a large percentage of people. Additionally, whiplash can lead to a number of long-term debilitating symptoms that can stick with you for life.

What are Common Whiplash Symptoms?

Symptoms may include, but are not limited to;

  • Neck pain and/or stiffness
  • Dizziness
  • Blurred vision
  • Sleep disturbances and fatigue
  • Ringing in the ears
  • Jaw pain
  • Lower back pain
  • Arm pain or weakness

Several serious medical conditions have been linked to individuals who have suffered from whiplash injuries which include, allergies (an immune system disorder), breathing disorders, cardiovascular problems, chronic pain, headaches, and fibromyalgia.

How Long Does it Take to Recover from Whiplash?

Recovery times from whiplash injuries vary from person to person. No two injuries are exactly alike and recovery from whiplash depends on a number of things including;

  • The amount of time that has elapsed since your injury/accident
  • The Severity of the impact
  • The speed you were traveling, and the position your body was in

On average, whiplash injuries take six (6) weeks to recover from, but approximately 1/3 of people suffer recurring neck pain and symptoms lasting 10 years or longer. Additionally, others may NEVER fully recover and will experience symptoms for LIFE. 75% of people treated for a whiplash injury that have ALSO been diagnosed with a decreased range of motion in the neck, will suffer from recurring symptoms, lasting about 1 YEAR. In addition, those with a decreased range of motion have a significantly higher chance of re-injuring their neck or back in the future.

What is the Average Compensation for my Whiplash Injury?

If you have suffered a whiplash injury then you are entitled to compensation for the injuries you have sustained. Compensation for your whiplash injury may include;

  1. Past and future pain and suffering;
  2. Past and future embarrassment;
  3. Past and future loss of amenities of life;
  4. Past and future lost earnings;
  5. Lost earning capacity;
  6. Past and future medical expense;
  7. Emotional distress; and
  8. Possible loss of consortium.

Typically, an individual who suffers from whiplash or a whiplash type injury may recover between $7500 all the way up to $30,000.00 or more. Every case is different and the compensation you receive hinges on the particular facts of YOUR case. As always, please contact an experienced personal injury and auto accident attorney's today for your free consultation.

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