UK WHIPLASH CLAIM ADVICE

There are time limits relating to all personal injury cases. You must either settle your claim or proceedings must have been issued in a court of law within 3 years of the incident. There are exceptions to this general rule for those under the age of 18 years at the time of the accident and for the mentally disabled and in addition the court does have discretion to extend the 3 year period however an extension of time is rarely granted. Limitation law can be complex and you should always take professional legal advice if you are in any doubt about the issues involved.

You may be entitled to make a whiplash claim if you were a driver or a passenger who was injured :-

• as a result of another person’s negligent driving
• in a vehicle or traffic accident that is the result of a defective road or highway
• in an accident that is the result of negligence by a pedestrian or cyclist

The risks associated with a neck injury are far too great to attempt to diagnose and treat yourself. If you have had an accident and believe that you may be injured it is important to seek medical assistance as soon as possible if you experience any of the following symptoms :-

• neck pain
• pain in either or both arms
• shoulder pain
• headache
• dizziness
• weakness or loss of function
• any new sensation or pain that was not present before the injury

The best time to call your doctor is immediately after the injury. If you cannot determine whether an emergency department visit is needed for your symptoms, then contact your GP and ask for advice. If your doctor is unavailable at the time of your injury, then you should attend an accident and emergency department.

The doctor will first examine the functioning of your spinal cord (reflexes, sensation, physical strength in arms and legs) in order to determine if any damage is present. The doctor will also inspect your head and neck for any injury including bruises, cuts, and abrasions. You should tell the doctor if you feel neck pain, numbness or tingling in your arms or legs, or any other abnormal feelings during examination. X-rays may be taken to ensure that there are no fractures or broken bones in the neck region. A CT scan or MRI may also be needed to assist with diagnosis.

If you wish to make a whiplash claim it is important that you speak to a specialist personal injury solicitor as soon as possible. A lawyer will advise what is involved in making a claim, including the claims investigation process, litigation, negotiation and settlement of claims.

Here are 3 good reasons to choose our lawyers:

1. Our lawyers will provide you with legal advice on your rights and entitlements to compensation with no further obligation.
2. Our solicitors are specialist accredited expert members of the Law Society personal injury panel with extensive experience in negotiating, settling and litigating accident compensation claims.
3. If you decide to instruct any of our specialists to obtain compensation for you, they will act on a “no win no fee” basis. Compensation is paid in full and win or lose there is no charge.¹