Rear-end crashes are the leading cause of whiplash injuries, resulting in over 120,000 cases each year in the United States. Injuries after car crashes result in hundreds of thousands of claims and lawsuits filed every year with a car accident lawyer to recover damages.
Whiplash Injuries
Neck injuries can occur in any type of car collision, but whiplash is one of the most common injuries seen in rear-end collisions. Symptoms can range from mild to severe, but if left untreated, the condition can worsen and lead to permanent disability. Since neck injuries can take time after a car crash to become apparent, it’s best to seek medical attention immediately after an accident. Common whiplash symptoms include:
- Neck, shoulder and lower back pain and stiffness
- Headaches
- Numbness in upper limbs
- Confusion, disorientation and difficulty concentrating
- Sleep problems
Depending on the severity of whiplash injuries, treatments often include rest, pain and anti-inflammatory drugs, muscle relaxants, anti-depressants, physical therapy, and cervical collars or cervical traction. All of these treatments can impact daily activities and lifestyle. A car accident lawyer commonly sees serious whiplash injuries that significantly impact a person’s employment and abilities to perform daily tasks. With severe head, neck and back injuries, a person may suffer permanent disabilities that have a major impact on work and finances.
Nevada Personal Injury Claims
The statute of limitations to file a Nevada personal injury claim is two years after the date of the accident. If a claim is filed after the two-year period expires, Nevada courts are likely not to hear the case. In a car accident, an injury victim must provide proper evidence to the court and prove liability through a car accident lawyer who can show the validity of the injury. An injury victim must also prove that his/her injury was directly caused by another person’s negligent actions to collect money for damages.
Nevada follows a modified comparative fault rule, which means that an injured party can only be compensated for injuries if he/she is less than 50 percent responsible for the accident. The compensation awarded can vary based on the severity of injuries and the circumstances of the accident. If compensation is awarded, damages typically include medical expenses; pain and suffering; lost wages; future medical expenses associated with long-term disabilities; and vehicle damages. Rear-end collisions are generally considered the fault of the rear driver, but details of the accident may impact the outcome of the claim.
