One of the most common injuries in an Arizona car accident is whiplash. It happens even in the most minor collisions. Often times, when you file an insurance claim, you will claim whiplash. The same is true when you have to file a lawsuit.
Insurance companies often don’t look at whiplash as a legitimate injury. Since it is difficult to prove, it is easy to deny. This is why it’s so important that you seek medical attention immediately after an accident.
If you’re in an Arizona car accident, go to the hospital right away. Do this even if you don’t think you’re hurt. You never know what internal injuries you have sustained. You may have also suffered whiplash.
Whiplash can be very painful. It limits your range of motion severely. It may make it difficult for you to drive. You may not even be able to turn your head. You will probably be required to wear a neck brace for a few days or even a week.
What is Whiplash?
Whiplash is caused by your head being thrown forward and backward. It can also happen if your head is tossed sideways. Whiplash1` is when your neck is stretched beyond its normal limits. It is a muscle strain. It is not visible to the naked eye.
When your head is jostled, your body uses your neck to protect it. Your neck is only supposed to turn so far. When it is forced in one direction, it causes a strain in the muscles. It isn’t the same as a broken bone. It isn’t even a muscle tear that can be proven in an x-ray.
The problem with whiplash is that it doesn’t show up in x-rays or tests. It is something that hurts but is hard to prove. If you suffer whiplash, you want to call and car accident lawyer in Phoenix, AZ.
How a Car Accident Lawyer Proves Whiplash
Most injuries are easy to prove. If you break a bone, you have a cast. If you need surgery, there are records to prove it. Even if you have a concussion, they can do an MRI to show proof. With whiplash, there are none of these things.
In order to prove whiplash, your lawyer in Phoenix, AZ will rely on doctors. He will have your doctor testify on your behalf and will get expert opinions from medical professionals. He will need affidavits and doctor’s notes to prove it.
The good news is that although insurance companies doubt whiplash, the court doesn’t. Officers of the court know that whiplash is a common car accident injury. Juries understand this too.
One thing to keep in mind is that whiplash is temporary. It doesn’t last long. You can work with whiplash. You can function day-to-day with whiplash. Therefore, a settlement for whiplash is not very large.
Whiplash Settlements in Arizona Car Accidents
The average settlement for whiplash is relatively small. This doesn’t mean it isn’t helpful. If you’ve been hurt, you’re entitled to compensation. This just means that a whiplash settlement is much lower than one for a serious injury. Damages for spinal cord injuries or traumatic brain injuries are much larger.
In Arizona, the average settlement for soft tissue injuries like whiplash is anywhere from $10,000 to $25,000. Keep in mind, this includes the high range for more serious injuries. For something as minimal whiplash, the settlement will be on the lower range.
Your attorney will fight to get you as much money as possible. These numbers represent averages – they are not a guarantee.
Contact a Car Accident Lawyer in Phoenix
If you have been in a car accident, you need a lawyer. You will need an expert to help prove your damages. Some injuries, such as whiplash, are very hard to prove. You don’t have the knowledge and experience to do this yourself.
Contact an experienced car accident lawyer in Phoenix, AZ. They know how to calculate settlement values and have a history of negotiating with the insurance companies. They know how to get you the best settlement possible.
Car accident lawyers also know what it takes to prove a whiplash case. They will call upon medical experts to testify on your behalf and will get statements from people who know you. They will ask them to speak about your pain and may even ask you to testify about your injuries.
Call a car accident lawyer today to schedule your free consultation. You pay nothing for your first meeting. Your lawyer will answer any questions you may have. They will give you an idea of what your case may be worth. They can walk you through the settlement process and will give you peace of mind.
