How Does It Work in Arizona?
Whiplash is one of the most common injuries sustained in auto accidents—especially rear-end collisions. While often dismissed as a “minor” injury, whiplash can cause significant pain, medical expenses, and time away from work. If you’ve suffered whiplash due to someone else’s negligence, you may be entitled to financial compensation through a personal injury settlement.
At Rideout Law Group, our Arizona personal injury attorneys help clients understand their legal rights after a crash and fight for full and fair whiplash settlements across Scottsdale, Lake Havasu, and throughout the state.
What Is Whiplash?
Whiplash is a soft tissue injury that occurs when the neck is forcefully and rapidly jolted back and forth, similar to the cracking of a whip. It commonly results from car accidents, especially those involving sudden deceleration or impact.
Symptoms of whiplash can include:
- Neck and shoulder pain
- Stiffness and reduced range of motion
- Headaches, often starting at the base of the skull
- Fatigue, dizziness, or blurred vision
- Difficulty concentrating or memory issues
In some cases, symptoms may not appear until hours or days after the accident, making early medical evaluation essential.
Can You Sue for Whiplash After a Car Accident?
Yes, if another driver’s negligence caused your accident, you may file a personal injury claim against them. In Arizona, this means proving:
- The at-fault driver owed you a duty of care (as all drivers do).
- They breached that duty (e.g., by speeding, texting while driving, or running a red light).
- Their negligence directly caused your whiplash injury.
- You suffered measurable damages—such as medical bills, lost wages, or pain and suffering.
Whiplash settlements are usually pursued through insurance claims, but if negotiations fail, a lawsuit may be necessary to recover what you’re owed.
How Much Is a Whiplash Settlement Worth?
There is no one-size-fits-all answer. Settlement amounts vary based on factors like:
- Severity of the injury: Minor strains may settle for a few thousand dollars, while severe cases involving long-term treatment can reach six figures.
- Medical expenses: All past and future medical costs should be included.
- Lost income: If your whiplash prevented you from working, you can claim wage loss.
- Pain and suffering: This includes physical discomfort and emotional distress.
- Impact on daily life: Reduced ability to enjoy hobbies, perform household tasks, or care for family members can increase settlement value.
Insurance companies often undervalue whiplash claims or argue that the injury is exaggerated. This is where a skilled personal injury attorney becomes essential.
Should You Accept the Insurance Company’s First Offer?
Generally, no. The first settlement offer from an insurance company is often much lower than the actual value of your claim. Before accepting any offer, consult with a personal injury attorney who can evaluate your case, gather medical evidence, and negotiate on your behalf.
At Rideout Law Group, we routinely handle whiplash and soft tissue injury claims and understand how to push back against lowball offers from insurers.
Get Help from an Arizona Whiplash Lawyer
If you’ve been in a car accident in Scottsdale, Lake Havasu, or anywhere in Arizona and are suffering from whiplash, you don’t have to face the insurance process alone. The team at Rideout Law Group is here to protect your rights and fight for the compensation you deserve.
📞 Call (833) 854-8181 for a free consultation or contact us online.