Neck Injury and Automobile Accidents

Neck injury caused by whiplash is an unfortunate outcome of many car collisions. Whiplash occurs when the neck becomes distorted because of sudden extension. Neck injuries can cause a great amount of pain as it severely impacts movement in the rest of the body. The neck is a crucial part of the human body and is made up of complex nerves and muscles. Serious neck injuries can damage the spine, which can lead to partial or even complete paralysis.

Whiplash afflicts victims in car accidents when their bodies are jerked back and forth at quick speeds—usually when a car collides with another car. This violent jerking motion causes the spine to jerk like a whip and damages both the spine and neck. The resulting symptoms include soreness, pain, and restriction in movement. In such situations, a physician or chiropractor’s assistance is necessary.

Sadly, neck injuries can take years to heal. Permanent paralysis caused by whiplash has devastating consequences for the plaintiff’s future. Treatment to address the injury is often time-consuming and expensive. If a plaintiff suffered a neck injury because of the negligent behavior of another driver, they should hire a personal injury lawyer that specializes in automobile accidents to address the wrongful act.

It is important for plaintiffs who have suffered neck injuries to seek the legal advice of Oakland personal injury lawyers after the initial recuperation period. It is advisable to seek the legal counsel of a certified lawyer before speaking to insurance company representatives. Insurance companies will often offer a settlement fee to restitute or pay for the damage but this amount may be far below what the case is really worth in court. The plaintiff may face years of intensive medical care costs so it is important to speak to a lawyer first.

After selecting one of the Oakland personal injury lawyers available to represent the case, the attorney will then file a claim with the applicable insurance company and request compensation for the damage stemming from the automobile accident. Most cases are settled out of court through the insurance claims process but can proceed to trial if certain issues arise.

Sometimes, the negligent party does not carry any insurance or has insufficient coverage. At other times, the insurance company refuses to make a reasonable offer or the negligent party denies responsibility. When these happen, the plaintiff can file a lawsuit with their Oakland personal injury lawyers to seek proper restitution.