Whiplash is the most common injury sustained in road traffic accidents however many victims simply tolerate their symptoms without claiming the compensation for personal injury and financial losses that they are entitled to because they are not aware of the claim’s procedure. There is a certain stigma in Northern Ireland in claiming for whiplash-type injuries. Unfortunately, the negative connotations associated with whiplash can result in the non-pursuance of many genuine claims. This is not in the best interests of justice. Whiplash is a bona fide injury and can cause severe physical pain. The most common symptoms of whiplash include neck pain, neck stiffness and difficulty moving your head, upper & lower back pain, pain & muscle spasms in shoulders or arms. It can also give rise to psychological symptoms and impact upon a person’s right to enjoyment of life. If you have sustained a genuine whiplash injury, then compensation is designed to get you back in the position you were in prior to the accident and you should not feel “guilty” about making a claim. You should seek medical attention (GP or hospital) as soon as you become aware of your symptoms. Obviously, this will help your recovery, but this will also serve as a record of your injury and may be used as evidence to prove that injury was sustained. You should also consider rehabilitation at the earliest opportunity to aid your recovery. Where NHS waiting lists are long it may be necessary to avail of private treatment and the expense of this can be claimed back as part of your claim. Remember that you are entitled to independent legal advice in respect of your injuries and once we have your instructions the claims process is very straightforward. We will assess your case and investigate every aspect of the incident to establish who was at fault. We will then lodge your claim with the relevant party/insurance company and once liability has been determined we will arrange for you to be medically examined by an expert to provide a medico-legal report. This report will substantiate your claim for whiplash and will be used to value your compensation. As soon as your medical evidence and losses have been finalised, your solicitor will discuss your settlement options. Negotiations will then take place to secure the best possible award on your behalf. Where cases do not settle during the negotiation process, we will consider commencing court proceedings to ensure that you are adequately & fairly compensated for your losses. At PA Duffy & Co Solicitors we have helped numerous clients claim compensation for whiplash type injuries. We are working independently for you to ensure that you are treated fairly and justly to the highest possible standard.