Suppose you are waiting at a red traffic light. If the motorist driving behind you is not paying attention, you may be involved in a rear-end collision. These accidents happen thousands of times a year. A common injury from collisions is whiplash injury. This form of neck trauma can cause neck pain, nausea, and fatigue. Frequently reported complaints also include dizziness, difficulty paying attention and difficulty remembering.
Whiplash complaints usually go away on their own, but can last for weeks or even months. In some cases, the complaints are so serious that they lead to serious limitations and incapacity for work.
Reporting the damage
After a rear-end collision, the insurer of the motorist causing the damage must compensate the victim for the damage. Every motorist must be insured against third-party liability; this is required by law. In the unlikely event that a driver is not insured and cannot pay for the damage, the damage will be reimbursed by the Motor Traffic Guarantee Fund.
When claiming personal injury, it is wise to enlist legal assistance. Your representative will take all legal steps off your hands. The process starts with a notice of liability that is sent to (the insurer of) the person who caused the accident. In addition, your representative will ask for an advance on the compensation for you, with which you can pay the initial costs.
The damages that can be recovered
Any costs you incur in connection with your injury, and any income you lose as a result of the injury, are recoverable damages. This concerns loss items such as medical costs, the costs of facilities such as household help and loss of income due to your disability.
Your representative will assist you in the negotiations with the insurance company of the person who has caused you damage. Once you have fully recovered, your case can be settled. The agreed compensation, minus the advances provided, will then be paid directly to you. The insurer also reimburses the costs of legal assistance. You do not owe any income tax on the reimbursement.
Specialized legal assistance
Personal injury law is a legal specialty. It is a good idea to enlist the help of a lawyer specializing in personal injury.
If you have developed whiplash complaints as a result of a traffic accident and you would like advice about your case, please do not hesitate to contact us!