According to Consumer Reports, a rear-end crash occurs approximately every 17 seconds in the US. Most drivers will be able to recall several instances when a hard break was prudent to avoid a crash. A rear end crash not only translates to vehicular damage, but also results in driver injuries. Most rear end accidents and instances that calls for a hard break result in extreme strain to the ligaments and muscles in the neck, which is also referred to a whiplash. Despite strict lane rules, with so many drivers on the road, it is practically impossible to completely eliminate these kinds of accidents. Research also suggests that you can suffer from whiplash injuries, even at speeds as low as 14 miles per hour. According to Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, the number of serious neck strain and sprains, that are the most frequently reported automobile crash injuries, is on the rise. Medicine Net, claims that whiplash can be a serious concern as it results in:
- Disability
- Medical care and treatment
- Absence from work and loss of pay
- Lengthy litigations
- Lost productivity
If these figures and facts are not startling enough, IIHS has reported that whiplash can cost automobile insurers an approximate $8.8 billion a year. It is therefore quintessential to employ strategic measures to ensure that whiplash is minimized. A few precautionary measures can help prevent whiplash altogether.
Whiplash Prevention Tips
- Car Selection: When buying a new car, one vital parameter to check is the car’s overall crash rating. Motor vehicles that have a superior rating are likely to be fitted with safety features and infrastructure to prevent whiplash injuries.
- Head Restraints: Before you set out on the road, ensure that your headrest is directly behind your head. This will keep your head in place and prevent it from being jerked in the event of a sudden collision. Doctors and chiropractors also suggest that the headrest you use should be aligned with the back of your head and must reach out to the top of your ears. If you are willing to invest a few extra bucks, you can also fit your car with newer headrests that are designed to minimize whiplash effects.
- Seatbelts: In the unfortunate event of an accident, wearing a seatbelt can considerably minimize the effects of the crash. Most seatbelts will lock you in place and you will not experience any sort of bounce back from a car crash.
- Drive Cautiously: The easiest and perhaps most efficient ways to prevent whiplash is to drive safe. As tempted as you may be to speed, exercise self-control while behind the wheel and practice safe driving habits. Understand, and act upon, the rules of the road to reduce the potential of becoming a victim of a car accident. This will not just prevent you from suffering whiplash injuries, but also save you money and time, not to forget save you from the pain you have to endure due to an injury.
Personal Injury Claim for Whiplash Injuries
Finding out if you can make a personal injury claim for whiplash is rather simple – just book an appointment with one of the marvelous and tremendous personal injury attorneys at Rosenberg, Minc, Falkoff & Wolff of RMFW Law at 212-344-1000. RMFW Law knows how to deliver the knockout blow. We build strong and formidable cases that do not leave any wiggle room for the opposition. We are only paid when you are paid. The first meeting is free. What do you have to say?
