Whiplash is very common during vehicle accidents. Whiplash is soft tissue damage caused by abrupt extension and retraction of the neck which happens when vehicles collide with each other or against a hard surface. Whiplash is the most reported car accident injury in the United States according to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). You need an attorney if you experience whiplash in an accident. Whiplash can cause victims a lot of pain and discomfort which can last for months and be devastating.
The term whiplash has fallen out of favor because of the negative scenarios in which people have seen whiplash victims. Therefore, it is common to hear whiplash referred to as ‘cervical muscle strain’ or ‘neck strain’ from time to time.
Preventing Whiplash During Car Accidents
Luckily for you, you can take several steps before you get on the road that may help you prevent whiplash in case of an accident. The first thing you should do to prevent whiplash is adjusting your headrest as soon as you get into your vehicle. Position it so that it is directly behind your head. The rule of thumb is that the top of the headrest should be aligned to the top of your head. However, you should just adjust the headset appropriately if you are taller or shorter than the headrest’s normal level.
Another thing you should do is something your mother has been telling you forever: sit up straight. You should settle back into your chair so that your head is as close to the headrest as possible. Adjust the recline of your car seat to achieve this position. You should note that a headrest that is within a few inches of the back of your head is twice as effective in preventing whiplash.
Putting on your seatbelt is another crucial element of how to prevent whiplash after a car accident. Moreover, the seatbelt should be worn properly with the shoulder strap across the front not behind the back for it to be effective. Doing so will hold your body steady during an accident and prevent whiplash.
You may follow the tips above but still have whiplash after an accident. If so, you should know what to do.
What to Do After Sustaining Whiplash in a Car Accident
If you experience whiplash during a vehicle crash, you should seek immediate medical attention. Even with minimal pain or discomfort, getting checked out by a physician is crucial. Whiplash symptoms may be dormant for a few days or weeks after the accident.
You should also notify your insurance if you sustain whiplash after an accident. Your insurance coverage should extend to personal injuries extending from car accidents. You have to comprehend the nature and extent of your injuries and all other damages arising from the accident to make a worthwhile claim with the insurance company.
If your insurance company delays paying out your claim, you may have to file a lawsuit. It is important to know what to expect in court for a car accident. You will receive compensation for your troubles if you have a worthwhile claim.
Many whiplash claims are fake. However, if you have a legitimate claim, do not be afraid to call Robert Littlefield Buford III, Attorney at Law as soon as possible and you will receive the best legal help and adequate compensation for your injuries.
