Whiplash, or any neck injury, can be very painful and can affect more than just the head and neck. It can be so debilitating that you end up having to take time off from work, take multiple medications, and try to function with constant pain that keeps you up at night. Fortunately, you can file a whiplash compensation claim.
What You Need For A Whiplash Claim
To have a solid case to support your whiplash compensation claim, you will require some evidence supporting it. That will include the following pieces of information:
Photographs
You should have collected several photographs from the accident scene with notes explaining what happened. Witness testimony will help verify the details you provide.
Other Accident Information
In your notes, ensure to include names and contact information of all parties concerned, including witnesses. Also, outline details on the weather and road conditions at the time of the crash.
Records
You should have contacted the authorities once the accident occurred. Include copies of any police reports filled out at the time of the accident.
Medical Records
The visits you have made to medical professionals should be documented and copies from doctors and nurses should be obtained for inclusion in your claim. You should document all details tracing your recovery from diagnosis to treatment.
Expense List
Record and track all costs incurred by you for medical and other injury-related expenses. Copies of receipts or invoices will be valuable to include.
Income Log
Track the number of hours and amount of income you have lost since the accident and keep it current.
How Long It Takes For A Whiplash Settlement
You should hear from the at-fault driver’s CTP insurer within four weeks if they have either accepted or rejected your claim. If they choose to accept it, you will also find out at this time how much they intend to compensate you weekly for a maximum of 6 months. If all parties agree to the amount, payments typically begin within two weeks. If your whiplash compensation claim is for a lump sum, it could take from 6 to 18 months to settle. That is only because these are more complex claims.
When You Should File Your Whiplash Claim
You have a time limit with which to work regarding when you have to file your claim. Be sure to check to find out how long you have because the timeframe differs from state to state. The time starts at the moment the crash occurred. For example, if you claim for weekly and medical benefits, you have up to 28 days to file your claim in most states. For additional benefits or a lump-sum payment, most states will take your claim up to 12 months after the accident. In Vic and Qld, you have up to 3 years to file. To be sure, consult with the best personal injury lawyers in Brisbane, GKS Law for advice.
What Your Compensation Amount Could Be
The actual amount of your claim will vary depending on several factors unique to your specific situation and the state or territory the incident occurred. In NSW, the average weekly compensation over 6 months ranges between $10,000 and $20,000 and is considered minor in amount. Multiple factors will influence the size of the compensation package. They include:
- How serious the injuries are
- If you were at fault or not
- How old you are and your pre-accident lifestyle
- How long you must stay off work
- The amount of your lost income
- Your future lost earning capacity
- The costs associated with treatment and other recovery expenses
For Advice, Turn To GKS Law, Personal Injury Lawyers in Brisbane
Think you have enough evidence to lodge a whiplash injury claim? The vehicle accident lawyers in Brisbane at GKS Law can help you with your case. They have lawyers on their team who specialise in vehicle accident law in Brisbane. Call GKS Law today to discuss your situation.
In Conclusion
Whiplash is a painful neck injury that can cause you many issues. With the assistance of car injury lawyers in Brisbane, you can build a case that will support your compensation claim. There are only certain things you can claim, and your claim has to be filed within a certain timeframe. If the insurance company accepts your claim, you may have a wait ahead of you to receive benefits, but they will come and payouts will last a maximum of six months.
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Steps to take after a vehicle accident