Over two-thirds of people who experience a road traffic accident will suffer from whiplash as a result. But what is whiplash, why is it so debilitating, and what can you do about it, should the worst happen?
Although generally perceived as a small or minor injury, whiplash is very much misconstrued. Our understanding as members of the UK public is that it occurs after a car accident, caused by a sudden jolt to the neck. The jolt can leave bruising, muscle damage, and tenderness.
But not all whiplash is created equally. In the most severe cases it can send a victim into surgery to correct the damage done. Those unlucky few who suffer whiplash and endure permanent injuries as a result have to suffer tingling, numbness, headaches, migraines, restricted movement, and other symptoms associated with spinal cord damage.
What Causes Whiplash?
There are three main causes of whiplash, with 83% of cases involving car accidents.
Whiplash caused by an RTA
Whiplash via car accident is commonly caused by a rear-end collision. However, road traffic accidents are not the only cause of this painful neck injury. In the case of an accident which was another person’s fault, your compensation claim will lie with the insurance companies of the parties involved.
Contact Sports
You might become injured during a contact sport that you play, such as when learning a martial art or during an archery tournament. In this instance, your own insurance or your sports’ clubs insurance should cover your injuries.
Whiplash After a Violent Assault
Since whiplash is caused by a jolt to the neck which throws the head back and forth too quickly for the muscles to kick in, it can happen during a violent attack. You may be able to claim compensation for whiplash after an assault from the perpetrator. You will need a personal injury lawyer to do this.
What are the Symptoms of Whiplash?
Symptoms of whiplash range from mild to severe. If you are suffering from this personal injury, you may experience the following:
- Neck pain
- Stiffness or reduced movement
- Aches in the upper back and shoulder area
- Headaches
- Dizziness
- Insomnia or tiredness
Severe symptoms of whiplash can be devastating to your health. These might include:
- Trouble focusing on tasks
- Memory issues
- Blurry vision
- Numbness of the extremities
- Permanent pain and/or loss of motion
- Spinal cord damage
Next Steps for Whiplash Sufferers
If you are injured playing a contact sport then there is little recourse legally speaking. You will likely have signed a waiver or insurance statement. You may be able to seek compensation from your own insurance provider.
If you suffer from whiplash after a road traffic accident or due to being assaulted, then you ought to hire a good personal injury lawyer. Northern Ireland and the UK residents have the legal right to claim compensation after a personal injury which was not their own fault. Your lawyer will guide you through the next steps to claim compensation for whiplash in the UK.