Whiplash Injury Claims

What Is Whiplash?

Whiplash is a common medical condition that can lead to significant discomfort. It is defined as an injury to the neck which is generally caused by a sudden movement of the head.

 

It’s commonly associated with car accidents but, as we will see, there can be many causes of the condition and a range of incidents that could potentially lead to whiplash claims. 

 

What Are Whiplash Symptoms?

When talking about whiplash symptoms, there may be a general assumption that issues are confined to the neck area. While it’s certainly true that whiplash can usually involve injury and trauma to the neck, those symptoms can extend much further. The following isn’t a complete list, but these are all common symptoms following an accident that can lead to whiplash claims:

 

  • Neck pain,

  • Stiffness in the neck leaving the sufferer with difficulty in moving their head,

  • Headaches,

  • Muscle spasms and general pain in the shoulders and arms.

 

Be aware that any whiplash symptoms that occur may not manifest themselves for several hours after the incident. If you are suffering from any of these issues, or you have other symptoms but are unsure if these are related to whiplash, please get in touch. 

 

How Long Does Whiplash Last?

The exact period of time that a patient may suffer from whiplash symptoms will vary but, in general, these should start to alleviate within two to three months. 

 

Naturally, it is important to be under medical supervision as there are ways to treat whiplash meaning that the condition is likely to clear up sooner. Other measures should be avoided and patients should

 

  • Not rest the neck for long periods of time,

  • Not wear a neck brace.

 

In general, while whiplash symptoms can be restrictive and unpleasant, the condition is unlikely to persist on a long term basis unless there are additional underlying medical issues.

 

What Are The Most Common Causes of Whiplash?

We’ve already mentioned one of the most common causes of whiplash claims and it’s one that most readers will be aware of. The sudden movement of the head, a classic cause of whiplash injury, can often arise as the result of a car accident where a third party vehicle has crashed into the driver’s car from behind.

 

When we ask what is whiplash and how it is caused, this is the most common scenario but there are many other circumstances where injury can arise. The overall list may include:

 

  • Road traffic accidents,

  • Sporting injuries,

  • Physical attacks,

  • A fall which causes a blow to the head,

  • Accidents on amusement park rides.

 

Remember, this is not an exhaustive list and if you are suffering from classic whiplash symptoms following a specific incident then please contact us. 

 

How To Claim For Whiplash Injury?

All whiplash claims should start with the appointment of an experienced solicitor who can deal with the case from start to finish. In Ireland, all personal injuries should be notified to the Injuries Board in the first instance and your solicitor can handle this essential part of the process.

 

Medical reports should then be obtained in order to establish that whiplash symptoms are in evidence and that whiplash has occurred. The claim will then be prepared, potential levels of compensation will be assessed and the matter will be taken to court with a view to obtaining respective payouts.

 

How Long Do I Have to Make A Whiplash Injury Claim?

Any personal injury claim should be reported as soon as possible but there are some specific time limits in place. In general, claimants have two years from the date of knowledge which is an important legal term. 

 

In general, the date of knowledge will be the same as the date of the incident but this isn’t always the case, particularly with whiplash. This date relates to a specific point in time where the claimant is aware that the injury is significant and that a known third party is responsible. Whiplash symptoms can often materialise in the days following an accident and this should be kept in mind when relating any issues to that two year window.

 

What Is The Minimum Payout for Whiplash Injury Claims?

Minimum and average payouts for whiplash injury claims will depend on a number of factors, including:

 

  • Cause and severity of the injury,

  • Cost of medical bills,

  • Any potential loss of earnings.

 

When asking what is the minimum payout for whiplash, the sums can start at 1,000 Euros for minor injuries. Associated medical bills and loss of earnings could, potentially, take that figure up and above 10,000 Euros.

 

Whiplash symptoms in isolation can typically return that type of figure but if there are associated spinal and/pr head injuries then this can increase significantly. All whiplash injury claims are treated on an individual basis so please get in touch and we can provide more answers.