A not at fault car accident can total your car, but it can also cause pain and injury to your body. If you find yourself suffering from whiplash after a car accident, there are some things you can (and should) do to ensure fast healing and adequate compensation.
1. Document everything
In a not my fault accident, you need to make sure to document everything. The best way is with a police report. While your injury might not feel serious, the police will make sure that everything is recorded as it actually happened. If you just exchange insurance details with the other person, they might later blame you, or they might not have appropriate insurance to cover your damages and injuries and you will be left having to pay for everything yourself, or with the difficult prospect of proving your case without police help.
2. See a medical professional
If you have any neck pain at all after your accident it is important to see a medical professional as soon as possible. Chiropractors are spine specialists who are well equipped at diagnosing whiplash symptoms. When you are found to be not at fault, the at fault driver will be liable for your medical costs, and hopefully they will have sufficient insurance with a quality company that can reimburse you promptly.
3. Don’t drive right away
While you might be tempted to drive right away, you should take the necessary time away from the wheel to avoid extra strain and worsening the injury. Even if you receive an accident replacement car, if possible you should ask a friend or family member to drive you until you have seen a medical professional and have their clearance to drive again. Neck injuries such as whiplash need to be treated very specifically, and the continued strain of turning your head could make your situation worse.
When you experience a not at fault accident, it is important not to only think about your car, your accident replacement car, and your bank balance. Make sure to pay attention to your body, and to treat your whiplash properly so you aren’t faced with serious implications down the track.
