WHIPLASH CLAIM - NO WIN NO FEE
A whiplash claim is the most common legal action in the UK where thousands of compensation claims are lodged annually for this type of neck injury. Our accident lawyers are members of the Solicitors Regulation Authority panel of personal injury experts who provide legal representation on a no win no fee basis. We do not ask you to fund or finance your whiplash claim and compensation is paid in full. Win or lose there is no charge.
Cause of Whiplash
Whiplash occurs most frequently when a car is struck from behind by another vehicle, but other traffic incidents including frontal or side impact can also give rise to a whiplash claim. Both drivers and passengers (front and rear) can experience whiplash. The forces involved cause the head to jerk the head forward, typically at a high speed, stretching the neck beyond its comfortable range. This is followed by a reflexive reaction snapping back in the reverse direction. The back-and-forth action tears and strains the soft tissues of the neck and back and it can also cause damage to the spinal cord. The body parts most often damaged by whiplash are the muscles, spinal discs, nerves, ligaments and other soft tissues. Swelling results as the body attempts to prevent further injury and this swelling puts pressure on the nerves, resulting in more pain.
Symptoms of Whiplash
In some vulnerable individuals the damage caused by whiplash can take a considerable amount of time to heal. Occasionally the damage is so extensive that the victim experiences chronic pain and in these cases the value of a whiplash claim can be substantial. Symptoms include :-
- impaired concentration
- memory loss
- irritability
- insomnia
- chronic fatigue
- depression
- blurred vision
- headaches
- nausea
- dizziness
- burning, prickling or tingling sensations in the back and neck
Urgent Medical Attention
If you notice any of these symptoms after a motor accident – even up to several weeks after the accident itself – consult a doctor immediately. As this injury is so common, your GP or specialist, including chiropractors, can often make a speedy diagnosis. Your GP or specialist, will take your medical history into account, such as any previous neck, back or spine injuries, as well as your present symptoms. You will probably also be given some neurological and physical tests. If your doctor suspects that the injury is more severe, they may require further tests, such as MRI scans, CAT scans or X-rays, especially if they believe your vertebrae may be damaged.
Whiplash Treatment
A range of treatment is available for whiplash and related injuries. Anti-inflammatory medications are often prescribed, along with pain relief medication. Physiotherapy is frequently used, as is heat therapy. Alternative treatments, including chiropractic therapy, can also be used successfully.
Surgery to treat whiplash is rare, although severe cases may require the sufferer to wear a surgical collar or require cervical traction. Surgery is usually only performed to remove torn inter-vertebral discs and to fuse the neck vertebrae.
Whiplash Claim Awards
A whiplash claim can result in substantial compensation in cases where there is long-term damage. Mild whiplash cases frequently result in awards in excess of £2000, while the victims of the most severe whiplash injuries may be awarded sums up to £250,000. The amount of compensation will depend on a number of individual factors, including the extent and severity of the injury, the length of the recovery period and any long-term side-effects of the accident, including disability. Most financial losses can also be claimed as compensation.
Free Legal Advice
Contact us today for free legal advice, either by completing the online form or emailing our offices or by calling the helpline. Each claim will be assessed individually in order to determine the likely outcome and the possible value. This initial consultation is provided free of charge and without obligation. Should you choose to move forward with your claim, you will not be required to pay fees or expenses of any kind. Each case is handled on a no win, no fee basis and there is no deduction from any compensation awarded if the case is successful.