August 9, 2021
Even though Illinois may not be one of the most dangerous states to drive in, car accidents are still quite prevalent here. If you get in a crash, you could suffer whiplash injuries that tear or stretch the muscles and ligaments in your neck. Let us look at this type of injury so you understand what to do if it happens to you.
Whiplash injuries and their symptoms
The foreign force that comes from hitting something or when someone hits you in a car accident could cause your head to suddenly move beyond its normal range, tearing or overstretching ligaments and muscles in your neck in the process. New scanning technology has made it easier for physicians to diagnose these injuries, but be on the lookout for the following symptoms:
- An inability to move your head.
- Pain in your neck that extends downward to your arms.
- Weakness and numbness in your hands and legs.
The law and car crash injuries
In Illinois, the law requires all drivers to obey traffic rules and drive with reasonable care. If a driver violates their legal duty and causes an accident, you can sue them to receive compensation for the damages they have caused you. First, you must prove their negligence by:
- Showing that the other driver was not driving with care; for example, they were under the influence or texting while driving.
- Demonstrating that the other driver failed to obey traffic rules; for example, they ran a stop sign or a red light.
- Indicating how their actions led to your injuries.
It is important to note that Illinois follows the modified comparative fault theory. This means that even if the other driver is primarily at fault, your compensation will be reduced by the percentage of your contribution to the accident.
Proving fault and dealing with the legal system is complicated. To ensure that you are well-compensated and your rights are protected while you are nursing serious accident-related injuries, consult with an attorney. He or she should be one of the first people you call in the event of an accident.
