The term “whiplash” is often thrown around after a car accident and is sometimes associated with “fake” car accident claims. However, whiplash is a very real injury that involves the quick extension and contraction of the ligaments and tendons in the neck. It can cause serious long-term damage, but it has negative connotations because it is difficult to prove from a medical standpoint.
Whiplash claims are also troublesome claims because they can take several days or up to a week to manifest. Most whiplash claims involve symptoms that will go away on their own over time. Based on these factors, you may wonder whether it is worth the time and effort to assert a legal claim for a simple whiplash injury in Boston. The answer will depend on the seriousness of the injury.
Serious Whiplash Injuries
Whiplash injuries can cause immediate medical problems and long-term issues for some individuals. The cervical region is extremely vital for mobility, even more so than most people realize. Damage or alterations to this area of the body can result in life-long medical problems and pain.
Even in the most severe cases, however, individuals can be completely symptom-free within several months. That means that if you have longer-term pain, you may have a more serious injury than traditional “whiplash.” It is important not to write off serious neck injuries as “whiplash,” and avoid getting medical treatment for them. Seeing a doctor after your accident is imperative for your health and well-being, and it will also aid with your car accident claim.
Legal Claims for Whiplash
Asserting a legal claim for whiplash injury is just like any other car accident claim. However, because whiplash injuries often resolve themselves without treatment, it will depend on the unique factors of your case as to whether it is a good idea to assert a claim against an at-fault driver.
The amount that you can actually cover in compensation for whiplash claim alone will vary widely. However, many mild-to-moderate whiplash claims are often valued in the range of $2,500 and $10,000. Presumably, a higher recovery will depend on whether you have other injuries, property damage, lost time from work, or other losses.
If your whiplash injury ends up affecting your vertebrae or nerves in the neck, your potential for recovery is much higher. Often, however, these injuries are much more severe and involve long-term damage. These particular claims can garner settlements or verdicts in the range of $100,000 or more. A personal injury lawyer will be able to realistically evaluate your claim based on the facts applicable to your case.
Even if you think your whiplash injury may not be worth pursuing, it is always a good idea to get a second opinion from someone who has worked with these types of claims previously and has legal experience. Contact Jim Glaser Law today at 781-689-2277 or fill out our online form to request a free case evaluation.
