Discussing At How Whiplash Accident Claim Compensation Payments Are Worked Out
Wednesday, July 6th, 2011One of the most common injuries that people seek injury compensation for is whiplash, which is usually sustained during motor accidents. Whiplash injuries can cause severe discomfort and greatly restrict the injured party’s capabilities. Here we look at the different options that claimants have when bringing an accident claim regarding whiplash and how their compensation will be calculated.
Accepting a Settlement Agreement
Most whiplash accident claim cases can concluded through a settlement agreement with the insurance company of the driver at fault. As this does not involve employing a solicitor it will usually result in a quicker settlement. Injured drivers that tend to take this route when pursuing an accident claim are ones that have only suffered relatively minor injuries. If you do decide that this is the right option for you; take some time to read properly the settlement agreement before adding your signature. Agreements such as this often certain conditions; one common one being that the claimant cannot try to re-open the case at a later time to seek further damages.
Seeking the Assistance of a Solicitor
In instances where injuries have been more severe it is often the case that claimants will seek the assistance of a solicitor. This kind of approach allows the claimant to seek both General Damages and Special Damages. The General Damages part of the claim is worked out by measuring the level of physical, emotional and psychological damages that are caused. The exact amount awarded is directed by previous court rulings on cases involving comparable injuries. The Special Damages area concentrates on compensation for loss of earnings, car hire costs, carer costs and any medical treatment that has been paid for. If you are considering seeking Special Damages as part of your accident claim then it is advisable to hang on to receipts for any costs incurred.