What Is Whiplash?
Whiplash is a neck injury caused by a sudden, forceful back-and-forth motion of the head. This is commonly seen after car accidents, particularly rear-end collisions, where the impact throws the driver or passengers head backwards and then forward. Whiplash can present itself through a wide range of symptoms including neck pain, stiffness, headaches, dizziness, and even long-term complications.
Many people believe that a whiplash injury is immediately apparent when in reality, symptoms don't typically appear right away. Some people feel pain moments after the accident, but others don’t feel that pain until days, weeks, and sometimes months later.
At Ajlouny Injury Law, our team of New York City car accident lawyers is dedicated to representing individuals who have sustained serious injuries in various types of accidents, including those resulting in whiplash injuries.
Signs and Symptoms of Whiplash Injury
Car accidents are not the only cause of whiplash injuries. Other possible accidents such as sports injuries, assaults, slip and falls, and even amusement park rides can occasionally result in a whiplash injury.
Signs and symptoms of whiplash include:
- Neck Pain & Stiffness: This is the most common symptom, often accompanied by limited range of motion.
- Headaches: Frequent or persistent migraines or headaches, often in the back or side of the head.
- Dizziness: Feeling lightheaded, dizzy, or off-balance.
- Muscle Spasms: Painful contractions of neck or shoulder muscles.
- Shoulder & Upper Back Pain: Radiating pain that can extend into the arms.
- Lower Back Pain & Stiffness: Pain and limited movement in the lower back.
- Numbness & Tingling: Sensations in the arms, hands, legs, or feet.
- Blurred Vision: Difficulty focusing or seeing clearly.
- Ringing in the Ears (Tinnitus): A persistent ringing or buzzing sound in the ears.
- Cognitive Issues: Difficulty concentrating, memory problems, and brain fog.
- Fatigue: Persistent tiredness and exhaustion.
How Is Whiplash Injury Compensation Calculated?
Many factors play into your compensation after a whiplash injury. The more severe the injury, the more compensation you may be entitled to.
Our team of attorneys often see damages awarded to whiplash victims for things like:
- Medical Expenses: This includes all costs associated with your treatment, such as doctor visits, physical therapy, chiropractic care, medications, and any necessary surgeries.
- Lost Wages: If your whiplash injury prevents you from working, you may be able to recover compensation for lost income. This can include both past and future lost wages.
- Disability: If your whiplash injury results in a permanent disability, you may be entitled to compensation for the impact this has on your ability to work and live your life.
- Pain and Suffering: Whiplash can cause significant pain and discomfort. You may be able to recover compensation for your physical and emotional suffering.
- Emotional Distress: Whiplash injuries can also lead to emotional distress, such as anxiety, depression, and PTSD. You may be able to recover compensation for these emotional damages.
- Property Damage: If your vehicle was damaged in the accident that caused your whiplash injury, you may be able to recover compensation for the cost of repairs or replacement.
How Long Do I Have to File a Whiplash Injury Lawsuit?
In New York, the statute of limitations for filing a whiplash injury lawsuit is three years from the date of the accident. Hiring an experienced personal injury lawyer will ensure that your case is filed before the deadlines set forth by the state.
Ajlouny Injury Law is well versed in New York’s “no fault insurance” regulations, which requires those suffering from whiplash after a car accident to seek benefits from their insurance provider first, before then seeking compensation from a negligent party.
Call a Whiplash Injury Attorney in NYC Today!
Were you recently involved in a car accident resulting in neck pain, headaches, or dizziness? Don't let the insurance companies take advantage of you.
Ajlouny Injury Law is here to help fight for your rights and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve for your whiplash injuries. Our experienced attorneys are ready to thoroughly investigate your claim, build a strong case, handle all the paperwork and negotiations with insurance companies, all while fighting for compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering you've experienced as a result of the accident. Contact our office at 516-535-5555 to begin your road to recovery.
