Skip to main content
Tag

Car Accidents

Whiplash is a common yet often misunderstood injury

Understanding Whiplash

By Car Accidents, Personal Injury

Whiplash is a common injury that happens when your neck gets jolted back and forth suddenly, like the cracking of a whip. It usually occurs in rearend car accidents but can also result from sports accidents, physical abuse or other types of traumas. Whiplash can be tricky to deal with because its symptoms are often subtle and can take time to show up. If you’re in Sarasota, Florida, and think you might have whiplash after an accident, it’s important to know what steps to take. Here’s some advice from Greg Linehan Law to help you out. 

Recognizing Whiplash Symptoms 

Symptoms of whiplash might not show up right away, sometimes taking take hours, days or even weeks. Common signs include neck pain and stiffness, headaches at the base of the skull, dizziness, blurred vision and feeling unusually tired. In more severe cases, you might have trouble concentrating or remembering things, ringing in your ears, trouble sleeping and irritability. If you notice any of these symptoms after an accident, see a doctor as soon as possible. Getting medical attention quickly is also crucial if you decide to file a legal claim later. 

What to Do if You Think You Have Whiplash 

Get Medical Help Right Away

Your health comes first. Seek immediate medical attention, even if your symptoms seem minor at first. Whiplash injuries can develop over time. Having a medical record of your injury is crucial for your recovery and any potential claims. 

Report the Accident

If the whiplash was caused by a car accident, report it to the police and your insurance company. Provide accurate information but avoid making any definitive statements about your condition until a doctor has thoroughly checked you out. Accurate documentation of the accident is essential for your case. 

Keep Detailed Records

Document every aspect of your injury and recovery process. Keep track of doctor visits, treatments, symptoms and how the injury impacts your daily life. Detailed records can be invaluable for both medical treatment and legal claims. 

Talk to a Personal Injury Lawyer

Consult with a personal injury lawyer, such as Greg Linehan, who specializes in these cases. A knowledgeable lawyer can help navigate the complex legal landscape, ensuring you get the compensation you deserve. With extensive experience in personal injury claims throughout Sarasota and the Suncoast, we are dedicated to guiding you through the process and advocating for your best interests. 

Why Choose Greg Linehan Law for Your Whiplash Claim 

At Greg Linehan Law, we know how much a whiplash injury can impact your life physically, emotionally and financially. We have extensive experience in personal injury law and are dedicated to fighting for your rights. We’ll help you get compensation for your medical bills, lost wages and pain and suffering. 

For more information on your rights and how to proceed with a personal injury claim, the American Bar Association has great resources at www.americanbar.org.

law

Understanding the Statute of Limitations for Personal Injury Claims in Florida

By Car Accidents, Law

When dealing with personal injury claims under Florida law, understanding the statute of limitations is key. This legal term refers to the time limit within which you can file a lawsuit after getting injured or having an accident. Missing this deadline could mean forfeiting your right to seek compensation for your damages.

General Time Limits

In Florida, the general statute of limitations for personal injury claims is two years from the date of the accident or injury if the claim is based on negligence. However, there’s a notable exception. If your injury happened before March 24, 2023, you might have four years to file your claim.

Medical Malpractice

For medical malpractice cases, the rules are a bit different. Typically, you have two years from the date of the incident to file a lawsuit, or two years from when you discovered the injury if it wasn’t immediately apparent. However, there’s also a four-year statute of repose, which means you can’t file a claim more than four years after the incident, regardless of when the injury was discovered.

Wrongful Death

In wrongful death cases, the statute of limitations is generally two years from the date of death. It’s crucial to consult with a qualified attorney, such as Greg Linehan, to determine the specific deadlines for your situation to avoid missing any important cut-off dates.

Acting Quickly Matters

One key thing to remember is that evidence and witness testimony can become less reliable over time. It’s always better to take legal action sooner rather than later to boost your chances of a successful claim. Plus, gathering evidence and building a strong case takes time, so starting early gives your attorney the chance to thoroughly investigate your claim.

Claims Against Government Entities

If you’re filing a personal injury claim against a government entity or agency in Florida, there are additional steps and rules to follow. An experienced personal injury attorney, such as Greg Linehan, can guide you through this process and help protect your rights.

Final Thoughts

Understanding these laws is vital for anyone considering a personal injury claim in Florida. Keeping track of important deadlines and seeking legal advice promptly can make all the difference in obtaining the compensation you deserve. If you are considering filing a personal injury claim, don’t wait. Consult with our team today to discuss your case and protect your rights.