Whiplash Injury Claims in Florida

Some people claim and like to believe that whiplash claims are not real. Claims are made that claimants are faking just to win money, to not have to work, or to make someone else’s life miserable. That is generally not the case. On the average, people are honest, hardworking individuals. Most people when it comes to a whiplash claim or any other personal injury claim, actually downplay the severity of their injuries due to embarrassment, pride, denial, or maybe just not wanting to blame someone else.

Whiplash victims may actually be harmed worse because of the negative connotations such as these. Many people would rather suffer in silence than be labeled a fake or a fraud. That’s not fair to do for innocent victims of any mishap.

In reality here are some numbers regarding whiplash and whiplash claims.

• Whiplash is not epidemic: 1 in every 100 suffered a whiplash injury
• 547,405 whiplash claims were filed in 2011/2012
• Whiplash claims fell 24,000 over the last 12 months

It’s common knowledge that people and victims more so have some issues with trust. Whiplash injury victims overwhelmingly put their trust in certain areas.

• 72% trust their doctors
• 39% trust their attorney
• 21% trust their insurer
• 13% trust their MP (other medical practitioner)

Who decides to file a whiplash claim and why?

• 33% or 1/3 respondents pursue on their own
• 30% encouraged by insurance companies
• 21% encouraged by an attorney/lawyer
• 18% relatives or friends encourage

When deciding whether or not to pursue a claim, it’s a good idea to be aware of the longevity of the problem. How long will this injury effect you? Is it recoverable? Totally or partially? Wow, that’s a lot to think about.

Duration of Whiplash Symptoms

• 25% – weeks
• 24% – months
• 20% – more than a year
• 13% – more than 6 months
• 13% – days
• 5% – a year

Considering the potential for long-term effects, this injury is worthy of awareness. Honesty is important and overall is preponderant. Fraud occurs and wastes money, but not only in whiplash claims. Eliminating fraud across all spectrums would help stop the mistrust associated with whiplash and other claims. Due to the potential severity, long-term effects, potential life-effecting restrictions (even if short term), protection of honest whiplash claim victims is an important goal.