Whiplash is a neck injury that you can sustain in a car accident. It can lead to long-term issues that seriously impact your health and well-being. If you sustain a whiplash injury after a crash, you must see a doctor immediately to ensure your safety. Also, you must speak with a Las Vegas car accident attorney to protect your rights and potential compensation, especially if the accident was caused by another party’s negligence.
Whiplash Symptoms
Whiplash develops because of a forceful back-and-forth movement of the head. It is usually experienced in car crashes; however, it can also be a result of a sports injury or a fall. Its common symptoms include neck pain and stiffness, headaches, decreased range of motion, dizziness, shoulder and upper back pain, as well as fatigue.
The symptoms of whiplash may not surface right after a crash. They can develop hours or days after the accident. Sometimes, whiplash can result in more serious symptoms and long-term impacts like memory issues, blurred vision, irritability, ringing in the ears, and sensitivity to light. If you experience whiplash symptoms following a car collision, you must seek immediate medical attention. Early diagnosis is key to successful treatment. Also, delaying treatment can result in an insurance provider questioning the severity of your injury.
Why Contact an Attorney
Following a whiplash injury, you need an attorney to help you pursue the compensation you deserve. Your attorney will ensure that an insurance company cannot take advantage of you and your situation. Whiplash can lead to substantial medical expenses, pain and suffering, and lost wages. Your attorney can help you navigate the claim process and achieve the best settlement for you. They can help you with the following:
- Valuing your damages. Your attorney will evaluate the full extent of the damages you sustain, taking into account your current and future medical bills. Also, they will factor in the income you lost as you have to take some time off work while you heal from whiplash.
- Negotiating with insurers. Insurance companies have claim adjusters who will focus on reducing your payout or avoiding a payout altogether. They will try to convince you to accept a lowball settlement offer from the insurer, saying it’s the only option available to you. But this adjuster won’t be able to use their common tactics when they deal with your attorney directly.
- Representing you in court. if your case fails to get settled, it may proceed to trial. Your attorney can collect more evidence to build a stronger case for you and represent your interests before a judge or jury.