Whiplash is caused by an over extension of the neck and is very common in road traffic accidents. The effects of whiplash vary from person to person. Some people have mild symptoms while headaches can be prolonged and severe in some people. The back and neck pain can resolve in a matter of months or it can take years or even lead to permanent disability. If you were involved in an accident that was somebody else’s fault and you are suffering from whiplash you may be entitled to compensation.

What should you do after a car accident?

• Seek Medical Help
• Gather information at the scene
• Make the road safe
• Report the accident to the Gardaí
• Contact an Engineer
• Timeline for Notifying a Claim
• Notify your own insurance company
• Be careful dealing with the other driver’s insurance company
• Contact a specialist Personal Injury solicitor for guidance

What should you not do after a car accident?

• If the Gardaí have been called you should not leave the scene until after they have arrived and they have informed you that you can leave
• Do not leave the scene until you have exchanged name, address, contact details, licence plate number and insurance details with the other drivers involved.
• Do not admit liability for the accident. Sometimes people say things out of shock or to make the other driver feel better. Your insurance company may refuse to cover you for the accident if you admit liability at the scene. This can affect your right to compensation if the other drivers say the accident was your fault and that you admitted fault at the scene.
• Do not make a formal statement to the Gardaí before getting legal advice. If the Gardaí ask for a statement, tell them you will make the statement at a later date and then get legal advice.

Can I make a Claim myself without a Specialist Personal Injury Solicitor?

Yes you can make a claim through the Injuries Board yourself. However, the person you are claiming against (who will often be an Insurance Company) is under no obligation to advise you on whether any offer or award is a fair reflection on what you are entitled to as a claim for pain and suffering as well as your medical expenses and loss of earnings. A specialist personal injury solicitor will be able to help guide you on what you are entitled to receive.

How long do I have to make a Whiplash Claim?

• The timelines for submitting a claim vary depending on the type of claim being made. In most cases it is a 2-year limit from the date of the accident or date of knowledge of the injury depending on the circumstances involved.
• You have an obligation to notify the party you believe was responsible (or the MIBI if it is an uninsured or unidentified driver) of your intention to bring a claim for the accident within 30 days of the accident occurring. If you do not do so it may harm your claim but it does not prevent you from making your claim.
• You should contact us as soon as possible to determine if you have a claim and which time limits apply.

Whiplash Claims Solicitors