Can I Claim Compensation for Whiplash in a Car Accident?

Whiplash is one of the most common injuries sustained in car accidents, and if you’ve been in a car accident and are experiencing whiplash symptoms, you might wonder if you have a claim for compensation. The answer, in many cases, is yes. If another driver’s negligence caused the accident, you may be able to seek financial recovery to help you cope with the costs of medical bills, lost wages, and other damages. Here’s some advice from a whiplash lawyer in Grand Rapids, MI.

Factors Affecting Your Whiplash Claim

Several factors influence your potential compensation for a whiplash injury, starting with the severity of injury. More severe and long-lasting whiplash cases naturally lead to higher potential compensation. Another major component of your potential settlement is the final sum of your medical bills resulting from the accident, including doctor’s visits, medication, and physical therapy.

Lost income also plays a role in valuing compensation. If your whiplash injury prevents you from working, you could be entitled to recover compensation for lost wages. You may be eligible for compensation to acknowledge non-economic damages, as well, such as the significant pain and discomfort that can come from whiplash.

Steps to Take After a Car Accident

Seek Medical Attention

The sudden, forceful jolt to the neck strains muscles, ligaments, and tendons, resulting in pain, headaches, dizziness, and reduced range of motion. Even if you don’t feel significantly injured, see a doctor as soon as possible. Some whiplash symptoms may be delayed.

Document Everything

Keep thorough records of medical appointments, expenses, missed workdays, and how the injury affects your daily life. Whiplash injuries can seriously impact your quality of life, both in the short and long term.

Follow Your Doctor’s Orders

It’s vital to follow all your doctor’s treatment recommendations as closely as possible. This will demonstrate good faith to the insurance company and support your claim.

Contact an Attorney

A personal injury attorney specializing in car accident cases can advise you on your legal rights and help build a strong case on your behalf.

How We Can Help

Car insurance companies aim to pay out as little as possible on claims, but since we specialize in car accidents, we understand the complexities of whiplash claims and how to fight the insurance companies for maximum compensation. We will thoroughly investigate your accident, gathering evidence and assessing the circumstances of your case.

We’ll also help you to accurately value your claim by calculating the fair value of your whiplash compensation, considering all economic and non-economic damages. And we’ll negotiate skillfully with insurance companies to secure the best possible outcome for you and take your case to trial, if necessary.

If you’re suffering from whiplash after a car accident, call us at Holmes & Wiseley P.C. today for help anywhere in western Michigan and the upper Midwest to schedule a free consultation. We would be glad to discuss your situation with you and explore your legal options. 

Tags: Auto Accident, Auto Accident Grand Rapids, Car Accident, Car Accident Attorney, Car Insurance, Whiplash Lawyer
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