Have you suffered whiplash due to a car crash recently and are seeking compensation for your injuries?
Here we unpack the effects of whiplash from a car accident, the amount of compensation you may be able to claim and how we can help you.
What is Whiplash?
According to Health Direct Australia, whiplash is defined as the injury to muscles and tendons caused by sudden, jarring movement of the neck, usually caused by the impact of a car crash. Symptoms of whiplash include:
- Chronic neck pain or stiffness
- Swelling of the neck
- Impaired movement of the neck
- Headaches and muscle spams
- Persistent pain in the back, shoulders and arms
- Weakness and dizziness
- Numbing of the arm or hands
- Difficulties with focus, swallowing or impaired vision
- Vertigo and tinnitus
Aside from physical impairments, there can also be cognitive and psychological issues that arise down the track that affect your quality of life. For some, the pain and symptoms from the whiplash injury may make working too painful; resulting in needing to take time off and a loss of income.
Compensation for Whiplash in Western Australia
The roads of Western Australia have seen close to 150,000 car crashes over the last five years. Fortunately, the Motor Vehicle (Third Party insurance) Act 1943 provides a legal framework which allows plaintiffs to receive compensation for whiplash injuries if the car crash was caused by the negligence of another driver.
If you have suffered whiplash from a car accident, you must report the car crash and your injuries to the Insurance Commission of Western Australia and the WA Police.
The Insurance Commission will require you to complete an Online Crash Report Form, and may also ask that you complete a Notice of Intention to Make Claim form. The Insurance Commission will then determine who was at fault and whether you are eligible for compensation and funding for medical treatment.
According to the Insurance Commission of Western Australia’s Annual Report 2019, whiplash compensation can range from anywhere between $20,000 to $50,000 with an average of about $35,000. It is important to note, however, that every case is different and settlements can vary based on the details of the incident and a person’s individual circumstances.
Whiplash and Car Crash Personal Injury Lawyers in WA
If your life has been negatively impacted by a car crash and you are seeking legal recourse, Stephen Browne Personal Injury Lawyers has the expertise and passion to help you get the justice you deserve.
As car accident settlement experts, we strive to win our clients the maximum compensation for whiplash injury to help them recover from the trauma and expenses that are an unfortunate part of any car crash injury.
We proudly represent our clients using our streamlined claims process which is quick, straightforward and transparent. Our team will gather the necessary evidence, communicate with insurance companies, arrange medical tests which will strengthen your case and guide you through each step of the legal process.
Contact us today to arrange an obligation-free consultation.
