Edmond Whiplash Injury Lawyer

Whiplash Injury Attorney in Edmond, OK

Whiplash is often believed to be a minor injury, but it can keep you from feeling normal for weeks, months, or even years after the damage occurs. An Edmond whiplash injury lawyer can help injured victims learn their rights when a negligent party causes a neck injury. Understanding whiplash injury laws can help you approach your claim with more confidence.

The Fulmer Sill Way

Clients across Oklahoma and the United States who have been injured by negligence place their trust in Fulmer Sill for legal representation. Lawyers and legal team members work together to investigate each case quickly and keep you informed every step of the way. Fulmer Sill’s blend of advanced technology and precise legal analysis is designed to empower injured people to seek the compensation they need for their personal injury.

The Severity of Whiplash

Whiplash describes neck pain that occurs when the head is forcefully thrown backward and then forward. This motion can injure the muscles and ligaments in the neck. One of the most common reasons for whiplash is rear-end collisions. In 2023, there were 711 people killed in accidents in Oklahoma. In 2021, there were 9,360 total crashes in the state, with some of them likely being rear-end accidents.

While rear-end accidents are some of the most common causes of whiplash, these injuries can also be caused by the following:

• Sports injuries
• Truck, bicycle, and pedestrian accidents
• Falls
• Work-related accidents, especially in construction

Whiplash symptoms can vary depending on the severity of the accident. Some people feel no pain or discomfort immediately following an accident, but experience stiffness and pain days later. Other common symptoms associated with whiplash injuries include headaches, shoulder pain, dizziness, fatigue, loss of range of motion, numbness or tingling in the arms, and weakness in the legs.

Regardless of the symptoms experienced, seeking medical treatment soon after the accident can help diagnose injuries before they worsen.

Diagnosing and Treating Whiplash

Whiplash-related injuries are different from other injuries like broken bones because soft tissues cannot be viewed on regular X-rays. Physicians may order physical exams, MRIs, CT scans, or alternative testing methods to diagnose ligament, disc, or nerve damage. Treatment may vary based on the severity of the condition and may require additional attention, such as medication and physical therapy.

The cost of damages can quickly add up when you have medical bills, lost wages, and other expenses. You may also be able to file a claim for pain and suffering. Keep up with your treatment plan so your expenses are as accurate as possible. Medical records provide proof that a physician has evaluated your injury and can document how it affects your everyday life.

Filing a Whiplash Injury Claim in Edmond

Seek medical attention following a whiplash injury, even if you think the injuries are minor. Prompt medical treatment provides documentation that connects your injuries to the accident. Your doctor can also see to it that you get the necessary treatment for injuries that could become severe if not addressed. You should also preserve photos of the accident scene, any property damage, medical expenses, and any correspondence with the insurance carriers.

If another party’s carelessness led to your accident, it’s crucial to be aware of Oklahoma’s legal time limits. In Oklahoma, most personal injury claims must be filed within two years from the date of the accident.

Oklahoma follows a modified comparative negligence rule when it comes to assigning fault in an accident. This means that if you are partially to blame for the accident that caused your injuries, your compensation may be decreased by your percentage of fault. Many personal injury claims, including whiplash injury, are heard at the Oklahoma County District Courthouse in Oklahoma City.

Hire a Whiplash Injury Lawyer

Some people decide to hire a whiplash injury lawyer in Edmond because soft tissue injuries can be difficult to detect but often impact a person’s everyday life. Your Edmond whiplash injury attorney can  help with the following:

• Obtaining your medical records, bills, and police reports
• Preserving evidence
• Talking to insurance companies
• Assessing future medical treatment costs
• Consulting with medical providers when needed

If your attorney is unable to negotiate a settlement offer that would fairly compensate you for your injuries and losses, they may prepare your claim for trial and present your case in court.

FAQs About Edmond, OK Whiplash Injury Laws

What Is the Average Settlement Payout for Whiplash Injury in Edmond?

There’s no average settlement payout for whiplash in Edmond. Each claim is different and should be evaluated based on its own merit. The value of a case may be impacted by how severely someone was injured, how much medical treatment they needed to recover, how much time they lost from work, and how the injury affects their day-to-day life.

Is It Worth Filing a Claim for Whiplash in Edmond?

Whether or not it is worth filing a claim for whiplash in Edmond depends on the facts of your case. Many whiplash injury cases are resolved through negotiations with an insurance company. Legal claims are appropriate when liability is disputed or when a fair settlement cannot be reached. If you were seriously injured and have clear evidence that the other driver was at fault, you may want to consider filing a claim.

How Long Does a Whiplash Settlement Take in Edmond?

The amount of time that a whiplash settlement may take in Edmond depends on the specific case. Some cases are resolved in a matter of months, while others can take a year or more if liability is disputed or if you need additional medical treatment to fully recover from your injuries. Litigation takes longer than negotiating a settlement with an insurance company. An attorney can help you through the process to avoid unnecessary delays.

Does Getting an MRI Increase a Settlement?

Getting an MRI does not inherently increase the value of your settlement. In some cases, MRI results can give you objective medical evidence of injuries that you sustained in your accident. Each case is evaluated on its own merits. Some of the other factors that impact value include your medical records and treatment history, the severity of your injuries, and how the injury impacted your life.

Advocacy You Can Count On

If you or a loved one has suffered a whiplash injury, Fulmer Sill can help you understand your rights and options. Contact us today for the advocacy you need.