Whiplash injuries caused by rear-end fender benders can have an unpredictable course. Some people experience sharp pain in the neck right away, while for others, symptoms don’t appear for days. Accident lawyers in Warrenton, VA can help when an insurance company disputes the claim because the person did not seek treatment immediately after the collision.
Ignoring Symptoms
Many people also tend to ignore symptoms. They expect to feel some aches and pains after their car gets rear-ended even if the symptoms don’t occur until the next day. Only when several days have passed, and the neck pain continues to worsen, do they decide to see a doctor. Accident lawyers in Warrenton, VA can help when an insurance company shows skepticism about this situation. The adjusters may wonder whether an incident that happened after the collision is the cause of the neck pain.
No Health Insurance
Some individuals delay seeking medical treatment because they don’t have health insurance or they have a very high deductible. They may not understand Virginia state laws that make automotive insurance companies responsible for paying the medical expenses for their policyholders even if another driver was at fault.
Other Symptoms and Treatment
Other symptoms associated with whiplash include neck stiffness that limits an easy range of motion along with causing upper back and shoulder pain. Doctors often treat the injury with a cervical collar that immobilizes the neck, reducing strain on this part of the spine.
Diagnostics
Magnetic resonance imaging scans (MRIs) can show injuries to the soft tissues, and a doctor may order X-rays to check for fractures in the neck bones. X-rays are not always ordered, but doctors may do so if they find a reason to suspect fractures or if the patient has osteoporosis, which reduces bone strength and density.
Maximum Medical Improvement
Lawyers with a firm such as Gayheart & Willis often advise clients to wait until they have reached maximum medical improvement before starting to negotiate a settlement. That’s the only way to know the maximum amount of money the insurer should pay. This isn’t always possible, however, when the individual is struggling financially. Contact us for a consultation.
