Whiplash is one of the most common injuries sustained in road traffic accidents, often causing pain, discomfort, and disruption to everyday life. Although frequently associated with minor collisions, whiplash injuries can have a lasting impact on your ability to work, drive, and carry out daily activities.
If you have suffered whiplash due to someone else’s negligence, you may be entitled to claim compensation. This article explains what whiplash is, how whiplash injury claims work, and what you should consider when seeking compensation.
Whiplash is a soft-tissue injury that occurs when the head is suddenly forced forward, backwards, or sideways, placing strain on the neck muscles, ligaments, and tendons. It is most commonly caused by rear-end car collisions, although it can also occur in side-impact accidents, cycling accidents, or incidents involving sudden braking.
Symptoms of whiplash can vary in severity and may include:
In some cases, symptoms appear immediately after the accident. However, it is common for whiplash symptoms to develop hours or even days later. For this reason, seeking medical attention promptly is essential, even if you initially feel well.
To pursue a whiplash injury claim, you must be able to show that your injury was caused by an accident resulting from another party’s negligence. This is often another driver who failed to drive safely or comply with traffic laws.
You may be eligible to claim compensation if:
A solicitor can assess the circumstances of your accident and advise whether you have a valid claim. Further guidance is available on our Road Traffic Accident Claims page.
The amount of whiplash compensation awarded depends on several factors, including the severity of the injury, recovery time, and how the injury has affected your daily life and finances.
General damages compensate you for pain, suffering, and loss of amenity. Minor whiplash injuries may result in awards of a few hundred pounds, while more severe or long-lasting injuries can attract compensation of several thousand pounds.
In addition to general damages, you may also be able to claim special damages, which cover financial losses linked to your injury, such as:
Keeping receipts and records of these expenses is crucial to maximising your claim.
First and foremost, obtain a medical assessment as soon as possible. Medical records provide vital evidence linking your injury to the accident.
You should report the accident to your insurer and, where appropriate, to the police. Collect as much evidence as possible, including photographs, witness details, and accident reports.
A solicitor can guide you through the claims process, gather supporting evidence, and ensure your claim is submitted correctly and within the three-year limitation period that applies to most personal injury claims.
Your solicitor will help assess both your general and special damages, ensuring that all relevant losses are included in your claim.
The whiplash claims process can be complex, particularly following recent legislative changes. Working with an experienced personal injury solicitor ensures that your rights are protected and that your claim is handled efficiently.
Solicitors can:
At NJS Law, our dedicated whiplash injury claims team provides clear, honest, and practical advice to help you navigate what can feel like a complicated process.
We handle most whiplash claims on a No Win, No Fee basis, giving you peace of mind and allowing you to focus on your recovery while we manage the legal aspects of your case.
Our NJS Law Personal Injury Specialists are sympathetic, experienced, and committed to achieving the best possible outcome for you. We offer a free, no-obligation consultation to discuss your situation and advise on your next steps.
Whiplash injuries can be painful, disruptive, and frustrating, but compensation can help ease the financial and emotional burden of recovery.
If you believe you may be entitled to make a whiplash injury claim, seeking legal advice early can make a significant difference. At NJS Law, we are here to support you through every stage of the claims process and help you move forward with confidence.
Contact us today to discuss your whiplash injury claim and find out how we can help.
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