Whiplash refers to a trauma-caused neck injury caused by the sudden, forceful, and rapid back and forth or side to side movement of the neck in an accident. While many people with whiplash get better in a few weeks of treatment, others may sustain chronic or permanent damage.
If you have suffered a whiplash car accident injury, find out how to handle it and what experienced Rockford Car Accident Lawyers can do for you.
Common Symptoms of Whiplash
Whiplash is essentially an injury to the soft tissues in your neck. You will usually experience symptoms within a few days of the accident, although the damage is often immediate, which is why you should seek treatment even if you are not showing any signs. When you do experience symptoms, the Mayo Clinic reports that you may notice the following:
- Pain that worsens when you move your neck
- Neck stiffness
- Headaches that begin at the base of the neck
- Tingling or numbness in the arms
- Loss of range of motion in the neck and sometimes shoulders
- Pain or tenderness in the arms, upper back, or shoulders
- Dizziness and fatigue
You may also experience blurred vision and changes in your sleep. Your best course of action, as mentioned, is to see a doctor immediately after your accident to get an early diagnosis.
Steps to Take After a Whiplash Injury
Your actions immediately after an accident will usually affect many things, including your chances of recovery and eligibility for compensation. If after an accident you suspect that you have suffered a whiplash injury, you should do the following:
- Get Immediate Medical Treatment
As a rule of thumb, always see a doctor after an accident, even if you feel fine. Once you explain the circumstances of your car accident, your doctor will check for signs of soft tissue injury and treat it. The medical records you acquire from this, and subsequent visits will come in handy when you file a claim.
- Document Your Expenses and Losses
Most insurance providers will require proof that your whiplash injury caused you damages. Immediately you notice any pain or discomfort, you should begin to document all your losses and expenses including, medical bills, car repair, and even mileage.
- File a Personal Injury Claim
If you live in a no-fault state, you should file an injury claim with your insurer immediately. People who live in a fault state can turn to the at-fault party’s insurance provider. Failing to do so could leave you paying for your expenses and loses out of pocket.
- File a Lawsuit
There are many unknowns that surround a personal injury. For instance, your insurer may deny your claim outright, or the at-fault party may be uninsured. Your best form of legal recourse in such situations may be to file a personal injury lawsuit. If you are successful, you may be awarded non-economic damages alongside your economic damages.
Contact Tuite Law Today
Tuite Law established its family-owned practice in Rockford, Illinois, in 1958. Since then, our Rockford Car Accident Lawyers have been defending the rights of personal injury victims throughout northern Illinois. We are dedicated to helping you get the compensation you deserve for your losses.
Are you a whiplash car accident victim living in Illinois? Contact Tuite Law today online or at (815) 965-5777 to schedule a consultation with a top attorney.
