Whiplash Attorney in Hampton Roads, Virginia

One moment, you're driving your daily commute. The next, you're suddenly rear-ended by another vehicle and left with an excruciating pain in your neck. This is a typical scenario for those who have experienced whiplash—the most common car accident injury—which affects the neck after a sudden jolt or impact. 

But while whiplash may be a common injury, it can have serious and long-lasting effects on a person's physical and mental well-being. That's why it's important to seek legal advice and representation from a trusted advocate. 

At Forbes Law Firm, we dedicate a large part of our practice to representing clients in their personal injury claims, including those involving whiplash. Our attorney has decades of experience advocating for our clients' rights, and we have a track record of successful settlements and court verdicts. Contact our office in Hampton Roads, Virginia, to learn about your options for filing a whiplash personal injury claim. We assist clients throughout Hampton, Newport News, Williamsburg, Poquoson County, and York County. 

What Is Whiplash? What Are the Symptoms?

Whiplash is a common injury that often results from sudden acceleration or deceleration. People typically experience it in car accidents, and it occurs when the soft tissues in the neck are stretched and damaged, leading to a range of symptoms, including:  

• neck pain,  

• stiffness,  

• headaches,  

• dizziness,  

• shoulder or back pain, 

• numbness or tingling in the arms or hands,  

• difficulty concentrating,  

• tinnitus (ringing in the ears), and 

• difficulty sleeping.  

These symptoms can manifest immediately following the accident or develop slowly over time. The complications and long-term effects of whiplash can significantly impact your daily life. While some people recover within a few weeks or months with proper treatment and rest, others may experience chronic pain, limited range of motion, and ongoing symptoms. Recovery can be costly. Thankfully, you have the right to explore your legal options for compensation.  

Filing a Personal Injury Claim in Virginia: What to Do if You Suspect Whiplash After an Accident

Virginia is a fault insurance state, which means that the driver responsible for your accident is liable for any resulting injuries and damages. If your whiplash injury resulted from an accident caused by another driver, you may be eligible to file a claim against them.  

After an accident, there are several steps that individuals should take to support a whiplash claim: 

1. Get Immediate Medical Attention: Seek medical help as soon as possible. Even if you feel fine, it's important to get checked out by a healthcare professional because symptoms of whiplash may not appear immediately. 

2. Keep Detailed Medical Records: Ensure that your doctor documents all your whiplash symptoms and the treatments provided. This will be crucial evidence when making your personal injury claim. 

3. Follow Medical Advice: Adhere strictly to the prescribed treatment plan. If you fail to follow medical instructions, it could undermine your claim. 

4. Document Everything: Record any symptoms, medical appointments, and treatments. Also, document how the injury has affected your daily life, including work and personal activities. 

5. Schedule a Legal Consultation: Consult with a skilled personal injury attorney like Stephen F. Forbes. An attorney can guide you through the legal process, gather necessary evidence, and negotiate a fair settlement amount with the insurance companies on your behalf. 

Remember, every case is unique, and we're here to provide personalized guidance based on your specific circumstances. Also, whiplash can be challenging to prove, as it may not appear on X-rays or other medical imaging tests. To maximize your chances of receiving fair compensation, team up with a skilled personal injury attorney. If you're in or near Hampton Roads, Virginia, contact us today to learn more about how we can support your whiplash claim and help you navigate this challenging time. 

What if Your Claim Gets Denied?

Because whiplash is a common injury and difficult to prove, insurance companies will take any chance they can get to undervalue or deny your injury claim. If this happens to you, do not panic or lose hope. Here are the steps you should take: 

1. Understand Why: The first step is to understand why your claim was denied. The insurance company should provide a reason for the denial. Common reasons include disputes over liability, lack of medical evidence, or missed deadlines. 

2. Review Your Claim: Look over your claim once again for any errors or omissions. Ensure all documentation, including medical records and evidence of your injury, is thorough and accurate. 

3. Consult Your Attorney: Contact an experienced personal injury attorney like Stephen F. Forbes. He has successfully sought justice for Virginians in injury actions throughout Virginia since 1982. His experience in personal injury claims can be invaluable in contesting a denied whiplash claim. 

4. Appeal the Denial: With the help of your attorney, you can submit an appeal to the insurance company, providing additional evidence or correcting any inaccuracies in your initial claim. This might involve gathering more medical evidence, obtaining expert testimonies, or further documenting how the injury has affected your life. 

5. Consider Legal Action: If your appeal is unsuccessful, you may need to consider filing a lawsuit against the insurance company. Our attorney's extensive trial experience can be crucial during this stage.  

A denied injury claim doesn't mean the end of the road. With the right support and guidance, you can continue to fight for the compensation you deserve. At Forbes Law Firm, we're committed to standing by our clients at every step of the process—including denied claim appeals. If you find yourself in this situation, don't hesitate to reach out to us. 

Why Do You Need a Personal Injury Attorney?

Working with a skilled personal injury attorney is a critical decision for anyone who has suffered whiplash because of an accident.  

At Forbes Law Firm, we understand the unique challenges that come with a whiplash injury. With our extensive trial and negotiation experience, we fight diligently for your rights because we're dedicated to helping you receive the maximum compensation you deserve.  

As a member of the Hampton Bar Association and the Virginia Trial Lawyers Association, Stephen F. Forbes has successfully sought justice for Virginians since 1982. His remarkable reputation and commitment to client advocacy make him a trusted choice for those pursuing a personal injury claim.