What is a Whiplash Injury and Why are Claims so Common?
Suffering from whiplash can be a traumatic experience. But, with the right help, you can make a full recovery. Here, we explore what whiplash is and why claims are so common.
What is whiplash?
Whiplash is a neck injury caused by a sudden back-and-forth movement of the head resembling the cracking of a whip. The motion can injure the ligaments, muscles, nerves and tissues of the neck along with bones in the spine.
The injury is most commonly associated with road traffic collisions but can also be a result of sporting accidents, falls, fights or other physical traumas.
The symptoms of whiplash can include:
- neck pain
- neck stiffness
- shoulder pain
- low back pain
- headaches
- dizziness
- pain in your arm or hand
- numbness in your arm or hand
- ringing in your ears
- blurred vision
- concentration or memory problems
- irritability
- sleeplessness
- tiredness
How long does whiplash last?
Whiplash recovery times typically vary from person to person and can depend on the severity of the injury. Usually, a whiplash injury takes around 12-24 hours to develop. The NHS advises that everyone usually gets better within two to three months while some can even start feeling better within days.
Sufferers are advised to take painkillers such as paracetamol or ibuprofen to manage their pain.
Physiotherapy may be required to boost strength and flexibility in your neck.
You are encouraged to keep carrying out everyday activities wherever possible – this may hurt at first but will speed up your recovery.
Why are whiplash claims so common?
Government statistics show that there are around 650,000 road traffic accident-related claims in the UK each year of which 550,000 are whiplash-related. This makes whiplash one of the most common claims in personal injury law.
At Watermans, we understand how painful whiplash injuries can be. We will strive to obtain the maximum compensation for you and get you back on the road as quickly as possible.
Suffering from whiplash can be a traumatic experience. But, with the right help, you can make a full recovery. Watermans is always here to provide you with all the support and legal assistance you need.
If you have any further queries on what to do after a whiplash related injury, get in touch with our team today. We are more than happy to answer any questions and point you in the right direction.