Whiplash is a general term for soft-tissue damage to the neck, often associated with rear-end motor vehicle accidents. Many people mistakenly think that whiplash is not a serious injury, but if left untreated, soft-tissue injuries can have serious and long-lasting effects. Whiplash can make it very difficult to perform day-to-day functions, like working and exercising. The pain and inconvenience of a whiplash injury can have serious effects on the victim’s well-being and mental health—not to mention the medical costs associated with treating such an injury.
If you or a loved one has suffered whiplash in an accident in Queensland, contact Firths the Compensation Lawyers today for legal advice. Firths offer a free no-obligation whiplash claim assessment.
Call 1800 631 888 or request a free claim assessment online.
What is whiplash?
Whiplash is a commonly used term for an injury caused by extension and distortion of the neck. In medical terms, this type of injury is usually caused by “cervical acceleration-deceleration,” which can result in hyperflexion and hyperextension of the neck. The sudden strain to the bones, muscles, and nerves in the neck that results when the head is suddenly jolted can cause severe pain and damage to the bones and tissues in the region, including areas of the upper back and spine.
There are typically four stages to a whiplash incident: the initial position of the head and neck before the impact, the retraction immediately following, the extension as the head recoils, and the rebound after the neck is fully extended and snaps back. As these stages progress, several powerful forces are exerted on the soft tissues in the head, neck, and upper back and shoulders, causing unusual load to be put on them. They are pulled further apart than they are capable of moving, causing hyperextension, and they are often bent or twisted in unusual ways, causing hyperflexion. This increased strain often results in tearing or other forms of injury to the muscles, bones, tendons, and discs in the neck and upper back, which can be severe, chronic or even fatal.
What is the most common cause of whiplash?
Whiplash and neck injuries are commonly associated with rear-end car accidents, where the occupants of the front vehicle are unprepared for impact. These injuries can even occur at low speeds, when the body is forced to a sudden stop or change of direction.
Even in cases where safety restraints are being used, such as a seat belt and shoulder harness, the abrupt shock of an auto accident can cause enough force to create whiplash.
What are the Symptoms of Whiplash?
If you’ve experienced whiplash then you may be experiencing neck pain, back pain, headaches or dizziness with the intensity of pain varying from mild through to excruciating.
Depending on the force of the impact and level of damage, you may also experience:
- Decreased range of motion
- Tenderness
- Stiffness
- Pins and needles / Tingling
- Weakness and numbness
These symptoms can occur immediately after the motor vehicle accident to several days later. Immediate treatment is recommended, if left untreated whiplash injuries can lead to more serious complications developing.
Can I claim compensation for a whiplash injury?
If you have been involved in a QLD motor vehicle accident and you did not cause the accident, you may be eligible to bring a claim for damages against the person at fault’s Compulsory Third Party (CTP) insurer.
Queensland whiplash compensation claims can be complex when it comes to the court’s determination around the severity of whiplash injuries. It can be further complicated the individual’s unique circumstances and their motor vehicle accident, the individual’s losses such as their inability to return to work, their requirement for housekeeping or caregiving, the treatment plan or the medications prescribed by their GP.
Due to the complexity of making a QLD whiplash compensation claim, seeking legal advice is essential.
I already have a whiplash claim and the CTP insurer has made me an offer for compensation, should I accept?
Don’t sign anything until you have sought legal advice.
Contact Friths now on 1800 631 888
Free QLD Whiplash injury compensation advice
If you have sustained whiplash injuries as a result of a QLD motor vehicle accident, contact Firths the compensation lawyers for a free no-obligation claim assessment.
Call Firths on 1800 631 888 or request a free claim assessment online.
