Factors affecting whiplash - a look at your chances of receiving whiplash in a car accident

It is thought that as many as 20% of people involved in car accidents in the UK are left with a whiplash injury. Painful and uncomfortable, whiplash can be a real hassle and often results in time off work, a re-arranged social calendar and, in some cases, long-term health problems.

The reasons why the other 80% of car crash victims walk away without whiplash is a subject much discussed by medical professionals and vehicle safety experts all across the world. It is widely agreed that the type of car accident experienced and the angle of the collision plays a significant role in whether or not whiplash is likely.

The latest research has found that rear-end accidents (being hit from behind), account for 43% of all whiplash injuries, while being hit head-on causes just 32% and a side impact results in 35%. The reason for the variation in these statistics is mainly due to the fact that a rear-end collision is most likely to cause hyperextension, thus stretching the neck unnaturally far back. A full explanation of the physical damage caused by whiplash can be found at ‘What is whiplash?’.

Safety features

In addition to the type of accident involved in, there are many other factors that affect whether or not an individual is likely to get whiplash. Of course, the safety features of the car have a part to play and installations such as dynamic headrests go a long way in cutting the possibility of injury. See ‘Whiplash prevention’ for a detailed look at dynamic headrests.

One safety feature that became compulsory for drivers in the 1980s has been said by some to actually increase the chance of receiving whiplash. The seatbelt keeps the body still and so, therefore, increases the force on the neck in the event of an accident, making whiplash a very real possibility. Despite this, seatbelts save thousands of lives every year and not wearing one is likely to result in something far more dangerous than whiplash, so it really should be stressed that their use is essential for all journeys.

Gender, age and other factors

Studies have shown that woman are almost twice as likely as men to end up with whiplash following a road accident and the reasons for this often provide fuel for discussion among experts. It is generally agreed, however, that the increased female risk is due to the fact that women have weaker neck muscles than men.

The age of the individual also plays a part in their vulnerability and adults aged between 20 and 50 are said to be most at risk. The issue of age is one of much debate, and some experts think that children are more liable, while others claim the elderly are more likely to suffer a whiplash injury.

One thing the experts do agree on is that front seat passengers are more at risk than drivers and the statistics prove this. The generally agreed opinion for this fact is that drivers are more aware of when an accident is likely to happen and so are expecting the impact. Passengers, on the other hand, are unlikely to be so well prepared and suffer as a result. In response to this increased risk, car manufacturers are beginning to install whiplash protection methods designed especially to protect passengers.

Making a whiplash compensation claim

No matter how old you are, where you’re sitting in the car or what gender you happen to be, the chance of getting a whiplash injury is still very real. If you’ve been unfortunate enough to have received one and it wasn’t your fault, you could be in a position to make a compensation claim.

Our personal injury solicitors have years of experience at making, and winning, compensation claims and our excellent success rate speaks for itself. There are no costs, charges or fees and you can keep every single penny that is awarded if you win.

To find out more about our exceptional no win, no fee service, or to begin your whiplash compensation claim today, just pick up the phone and call our friendly and knowledgeable experts on 0808 143 43 42.