Claiming for whiplash injuries

A whiplash injury is caused by a sudden or forceful impact to the neck. It is commonly seen in motor vehicle accidents, especially those involving a rear-end collision. Symptoms of a whiplash injury can range from stiffness and pain in the neck, shoulders and back, to dizziness, ringing in the ears and blurred vision.

While accident victims are entitled to compensation, often only those with grievous injuries, such as fractures, actually file accident compensation claims. In contrast, few people file accident claims for whiplash injuries even though they may suffer just as much emotional and physical pain as a grievous injury claimant.

The reason for this is that a whiplash injury is often not considered severe enough to file a claim. However, this is not true; a whiplash injury is just as capable of attracting suitable compensation as other injuries. These are four tips to help you file your claim:

1.Undergo a medical examination. It is important that you have yourself examined by a doctor for your injury, even if you think it is insignificant. Not only is this good practice medically speaking, but a doctor's report also acts as crucial evidence while claiming compensation. I know of one case where a doctor also found another medical condition caused by a collision.

2.Take legal advice. I can't stress this one enough. Discuss your case with a lawyer who has experience with accident compensation claims. He will advise you on the validity of your claim and guide you on the correct procedure required to file it. For this, it is important that you tell your lawyer the complete truth and provide him or her with all the information relevant to your claim. Show them your diary.

3. Maintain a diary. A whiplash injury, even though not physically evident, can be crippling. It could hamper your regular functioning and prevent you from living a normal life. You can make your case stronger by detailing all the difficulties you faced due to the injury. Keep a list of any emotional pain that you may feel as a result of your accident.

4.Record financial losses. You can claim compensation for the financial losses caused by your whiplash injury. This would include the total cost you incurred in treating and coping with your condition and any painkillers or specialist equipment, in addition to the earnings you lost during the period of your recovery.