Can You Get Whiplash from Being Rear-Ended?

If you’ve been hit from behind while driving and are experiencing neck pain, you might be wondering if you can get whiplash from being rear-ended. The answer to this question is “yes.” In fact, rear-end car accidents are one of the most common causes of whiplash.

If you believe you’ve sustained whiplash in a car wreck, you’ll want to seek medical attention immediately. Once you’ve been treated, we recommend contacting an Atlanta rear-end collision accident lawyer from John Foy & Associates. We’ll pursue compensation for your medical bills, vehicle repair costs, and other losses.

Whiplash Symptoms to Look Out for After Getting Rear-Ended

If you’ve been in a rear-end car accident, your first priority should be seeking medical attention. It’s important to note that injuries might not be immediately apparent after an accident, as the shock and adrenaline rush of a collision can mask pain. Therefore, you should see a doctor even if you aren’t in pain.

Since it’s very common to get whiplash after getting rear-ended, it can be helpful to know what symptoms this condition causes. Make sure to get medical treatment if you experience any of the following whiplash symptoms in the hours or days after your accident:

• Neck pain or stiffness
• Loss of range of motion in neck
• Pain when moving neck
• Headaches
• Pain in the arms, shoulders, or upper back
• Numbness in arms
• Fatigue
• Dizziness

What to Do After Getting Rear-Ended

As mentioned above, you can get whiplash from being rear-ended. Calling an ambulance or seeking medical care should always be your first priority after a crash. That said, there are several other important steps you’ll want to take after a collision. Make sure to take these actions after a rear-end accident:

Call the Police

Calling law enforcement is an important step to take after an accident. Police officers will respond to the scene of the crash, conduct an investigation of the incident, and generate a police report that your attorney can use to file an insurance claim or civil suit on your behalf. 

Exchange Information With the Other Driver

If you get whiplash from being rear-ended, you could face steep medical costs and other expenses. Fortunately, an insurance settlement can cover the majority of your accident-related costs. However, you won’t be able to file a claim if you don’t have the other driver’s insurance information.

That’s why it’s critical to the success of your claim that you take down the other driver’s contact and insurance information before leaving the accident scene. 

Take Photos

Including photos and video footage of the accident scene in your insurance claim can enhance the credibility and strength of your case. Make sure to take photos of vehicle damage, the location of the incident, any visible injuries you’ve sustained, and any other elements that seem important.

Talk to Witnesses

In some cases, eyewitness testimony can make the difference between a failed claim and a life-changing settlement. If anyone saw the accident happen, approach them and ask if they would feel comfortable giving a description of what they witnessed to your attorney. If they agree, then take down their information and pass it on to your lawyer.

Compensation a Lawyer Can Pursue for Your Rear-End Accident Whiplash Injury

All attorneys know that you can get whiplash from being rear-ended. That’s why one of their main goals will be getting you the compensation you need to cover your medical expenses. They’ll refer to your medical bills and records to calculate how much you’ll need to cover treatment-related expenses.

Depending on the extent of your car wreck injuries, an Atlanta car accident lawyer may pursue compensation for any of the following:

• Current and future medical expenses
• Ambulance costs
• Emergency room bills
• Prescription medication
• Assistive medical devices
• Physical therapy
• And more

Additional Forms of Compensation You Can Get from a Rear-End Accident Claim

While medical expenses are probably one of the most significant financial setbacks you’ll experience after getting whiplash from a rear-end accident, there are several other losses and obstacles you might be burdened with. Fortunately, a skilled attorney can seek the following damages on your behalf:

• Lost wages
• Decreased earning ability
• Vehicle repair costs
• Cost of transportation to medical appointments
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Loss of enjoyment of life

Meet a Lawyer Who Can Help You Recover from Whiplash After Being Rear-Ended

If another driver has hit you from behind, it’s important for you to know that you can get whiplash from being rear-ended. It’s also important to meet with an attorney after an accident to discuss your legal options. At John Foy & Associates, we have over 20 years of experience providing legal guidance and effective representation to car wreck victims like yourself.

Contact us today to schedule a free consultation with an Atlanta car accident lawyer. We’ll meet with you to discuss your rear-end accident and determine if you’re eligible to file a claim. If you hire our team, we’ll work tirelessly to get the compensation you need to recover.