Port St Lucie Personal Injury Attorney Explains Whiplash

 

Whiplash injuries are unfortunately quite common in Port St. Lucie. In fact, whiplash injuries are among the most common resulting from vehicle accidents. Every accident is different. However, you will stand a better chance of getting a fair settlement if you understand what whiplash neck injuries entail.

 

Port St Lucie Personal Injury Attorney Explains: Whiplash

There is often some confusion as to what a whiplash is. It is actually the mechanism behind the injury, and not the injury itself. During an accident, the sudden motions can cause flexion and extension actions to the cervical spine. It is not single injury, as is the case with cervical strains and herniated discs.

 

Whiplash Symptoms

Whiplash results in a neck injury that affects the soft tissue. Symptoms may not appear until some time elapses after the accident. In fact, it is common for symptoms to not be noticeable until several hours or even days after the accident occurs.

Pain and stiffness in the neck and upper back is common. There might be a burning or itching sensation in the neck, shoulders or arms. Shoulders are often painful and stiff. Whiplash victims often experience headaches or dizziness. In more severe cases, there could even be sleep disturbances, fatigue, memory loss, or an inability to concentrate.

 

After a Whiplash Accident -- Who Should You Call?

Prompt medical treatment is important. Consult a doctor regarding any injuries. Keep a journal, documenting all injuries and symptoms. If you are experiencing a physical impairment, write it down. Keeping a written record in a "pain journal" can help you when it comes time to seek fair compensation.

 

In the journal, document where the pain occurs, and what it feels like. You should also document the medications you are taking, and any side effects. Keep track of any times when your injury prevented you from being able to work.

 

Filing an Injury Claim for a Whiplash Injury

It can often be problematic to file an injury claim for a whiplash injury. Because a whiplash results in soft tissue injuries, the damage will not show up on MRIs, x-rays and other diagnostic tests. This does not mean that the injuries are not valid, just that they are more difficult to prove.

 

Document all pain, limitation of movement, and other symptoms, and seek medical treatment right away. Insurance adjusters will not simply take your work for it. Carefully document any financial losses associated with your injury. Medical bills, treatment costs, and lost wages as a result of your injury should be accurately documented.

 

Whiplash Claims: Determining Worth

It is reasonable to expect a whiplash claim to be smaller than many other vehicle accident injuries. A neck strain or sprain resulting from a whiplash injury is generally less serious than spinal and disc damage. As a rule, it is not considered to be a serious injury. However, that does not mean you are not entitled to compensation for expenses incurred, as well as for pain and suffering.

 

Document any tangible damages, such as lost earnings and medical bills. There are also non-economic damages that you should factor in, such as pain and suffering. These damages are best dealt with by an experienced attorney.

 

How Can an Attorney Help?

Hiring an attorney to help you with your whiplash claim is a prudent move. An experienced Port St. Lucie Personal Injury Lawyer is well qualified to assess your injuries and overall situation, and determine what would constitute a fair settlement. You should not wait to ask for help. Hiring an accident attorney early can help ensure that you will receive fair compensation after your accident. Call us today for more information as well as a free consultation.