What is a Whiplash Injury?
Whiplash Injury is a term that describes injury that occurs following damage to the neck, usually as a result of a sudden movement of the head and neck which is very often experienced in car accidents. This type of injury affects the discs, muscles, nerves, or tendons of the neck and can result in a great deal of pain. The pain is a result of the inflammation of the muscles and tendons in the neck following the accident.
Symptoms of Whiplash Injury
The symptoms of whiplash injury following the accident may appear immediately or may take several hours, days or even weeks to become apparent.
Symptoms of whiplash injury may include:
- pain and lack of mobility in the neck, back, jaw, shoulders or arms
- memory loss, insomnia, fatigue, depression and other psychological problems
- headaches
- dizziness or balance problems
- loss of feeling or pins and needles in arms or hands
- nausea or vomiting
- blurred vision
Diagnosis of Whiplash Injury
Whiplash injury is diagnosed by observation of symptoms and a physical / neurological examination. An M.R.I. (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) scan may be recommended in order to assess damage to the muscle, ligament and discs in the spine.
Treatment of Whiplash Injury
Whiplash injury is treated with anti-inflammatory drugs, pain relief medication and a course of physiotherapy. Severe cases of whiplash may require a surgical collar. Only very severe whiplash injury requires surgery, when a disc in the vertebrae has torn or ruptured.
Compensation for Whiplash Injury
Compensation for pain and suffering of whiplash injury depends on several factors, including:
- severity of the whiplash injury
- how long the injury symptoms persist
- permanent, residual damage as a result of the injury
- loss of earnings as a result of the injury
- additional financial losses
As with any personal injury compensation claim it is important to seek medical advice as soon as the whiplash injury occurs. In case of severe whiplash injury this will most likely the Accident & Emergency department of a hospital, otherwise you should consult your G.P.. In order to make a successful claim it is essential that the injury is documented by a medical professional.
Make Your Claim for Whiplash Injury Compensation
Our panel of experienced solicitors can offer advice to all UK residents. This service will guide you through the process of making a successful compensation claim for your whiplash or neck injury. Call us on 020 7836 5999 or complete the online enquiry form to receive no-obligation advice.
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