According to the Spine Research Institute of San Diego, almost half of all chronic neck pain in America stems from car crashes, mainly from low-speed rear-impact collisions. If you’re experiencing neck pain and stiffness that won’t seem to go away after the accident, it can be difficult to prove that these are more than just passing discomforts.
A person with whiplash may experience a considerable amount of pain and limited mobility. Personal injury lawyers from Spohrer Dodd Trial Attorneys say that many people who sustained whiplash injuries in car accidents have to go through extended recovery times, during which they may contend with persistent pain, diminished range of motion, or other ongoing complications.
That’s where documenting your whiplash injury properly can do wonders. From medical records to expert testimonies, the evidence you gather will matter. But what if the insurance company questions the validity of your claim? What should you do?
Symptoms of Whiplash
According to personal injury lawyer Brent Duque, a whiplash happens because when your head jerks suddenly during the crash, your neck muscles and ligaments are strained. If you have whiplash from a car accident, you might feel neck pain, stiffness, headaches, and dizziness.
If you’re experiencing these symptoms, especially if they’re getting serious, see a doctor right away to get the right diagnosis and treatment for your whiplash injury.
Medical Documentation
Medical documentation needs to be gathered to support your injury claim. Do these by following these steps:
1. Seek Immediate Medical Help
See a doctor who can assess your condition and create a detailed record of your injuries. Be sure to describe all symptoms, no matter how minor they may seem, as they could be indicative of underlying issues related to whiplash.
2. Request Medical Reports
Ask for copies of diagnoses, treatment plans, and any prescribed medications. These documents can serve as crucial evidence when seeking compensation for your injuries.
3. Attend Appointments
Follow through with all medical appointments and treatments as recommended to strengthen your case.
4. Keep a Pain Journal
Keep a personal journal noting daily pain levels, difficulties in tasks, and how whiplash impacts your life.
Presenting comprehensive documentation will support your claim and improve your chances of receiving fair compensation for your injuries.
Importance of Prompt Treatment
The sooner you get treatment for whiplash, the faster you can start recovery, boosting your chances of receiving compensation through a whiplash injury claim. Keep in mind that after a car accident, the adrenaline rush may mask pain or symptoms of whiplash, which may lead you to believe you’re uninjured, but whiplash symptoms can show up hours or even days post-accident.
Seeking medical attention promptly not only prioritizes your health but also makes a documented link between the accident and your injuries. This documentation is useful for any legal proceedings to prove the extent and impact of your whiplash.
Delaying treatment can make whiplash worse and prolong your recovery time. Insurance companies may also use gaps in medical treatment to devalue or deny your claim. Getting prompt care also shows you’re responsibly addressing your injuries.
Legal Representation Benefits
Getting quick treatment for whiplash is not only for your health, but it also lays the groundwork for the legal benefits. Having a lawyer helps you deal with the complexities of proving your injury claim. They can gather important medical evidence, like medical records and expert testimonies, to strengthen your case and make sure you meet all legal requirements, preventing issues that could affect your claim.
A lawyer also strengthens your negotiation position with insurance companies, making them more likely to take your claim seriously and offer a fair settlement when they see that you have legal support. If negotiations fail, your attorney can represent you in court, fighting for your rights and the compensation you deserve.
Negotiating With Insurance Companies
When negotiating with insurance companies, stay clear and assertive. Collect all relevant documentation, like medical records, bills, and any other evidence of expenses related to your injury. Presenting this information in an organized and thorough manner can strengthen your negotiating position.
Be prepared to explain how the accident has impacted your daily life, including any pain or limitations you experience from whiplash. During negotiations, stay firm on what you believe is a fair compensation amount for your suffering and damages. Insurance companies may try to offer a lower settlement initially, so watch out and be ready to counter their offers with clear reasons and evidence supporting your claim.
If negotiations get tough, think about getting legal assistance to protect your rights and to have someone on your side who can handle the complex process for you.
Conclusion
It may be difficult to prove you have whiplash after a car accident, but with thorough documentation and legal representation, you can strengthen your case. Getting medical treatment and keeping thorough records of your symptoms are steps you can take.
Having legal help who can help you handle the legal matters of your case can alleviate most of your stress and strengthen your position during negotiations with insurance companies, helping you receive the maximum compensation you could get for your injuries.