Whiplash is a soft tissue injury that affects the neck and upper back, often caused by sudden, forceful movement—such as during a rear-end car accident. Symptoms may not appear right away but can develop within hours or days after the incident. Common signs include neck stiffness, headaches, and limited mobility. If someone else’s negligence caused your whiplash injury, you may be eligible to file a personal injury claim to recover compensation for your losses.
Why Choose Us for Your Whiplash Injury Case
At Rochelle McCullough LLP, we understand that whiplash injuries are often underestimated—but for many victims, the pain and disruption are very real. Our legal team has extensive experience handling soft tissue claims across Dallas–Fort Worth and knows what it takes to get insurers to take your injury seriously.
What sets us apart:
- Proven success in handling rear-end and soft tissue injury claims
- Experience documenting delayed-onset whiplash symptoms
- Skilled negotiation with insurers who undervalue “invisible” injuries
- Strong local relationships with DFW medical providers and specialists
- Full-service representation with no fees unless we win
We’re here to protect your rights and fight for the recovery you deserve. Contact us today for a consultation.
What Is Whiplash and How Is It Diagnosed?
Whiplash is a neck injury that occurs when the head is suddenly jolted backward and then forward—typically in a rear-end collision or sports injury. The movement stretches and tears soft tissues in the neck, leading to pain and inflammation.
While X-rays and MRIs may not always show damage, diagnosis is typically based on:
- Physical exam findings
- Reported symptoms (neck pain, headaches, stiffness)
- Medical history and timing of the injury
Early medical evaluation helps document your injury and link it to the accident.
What Are the Most Common Symptoms of Whiplash?
Whiplash symptoms may appear immediately or develop slowly over 24–48 hours. Common symptoms include:
- Neck pain and stiffness
- Reduced range of motion
- Headaches (often starting at the base of the skull)
- Shoulder or upper back pain
- Fatigue or dizziness
- Difficulty concentrating or memory issues
Some victims also experience sleep disturbances or irritability, especially when the pain lingers for weeks or months.
When Can I File a Personal Injury Claim for Whiplash?
If someone else’s negligence caused your whiplash injury—such as a careless driver or unsafe premises—you may have a valid claim. To be eligible, you’ll need to show:
- Another party acted negligently (e.g., speeding, not yielding)
- Their actions directly caused your accident
- You suffered injuries and financial losses as a result
Documentation is key. Even if your injury seems mild at first, see a doctor right away and keep track of all related symptoms and expenses.
What Compensation Can You Recover for a Whiplash Injury?
Whiplash injuries can disrupt your ability to work, care for your family, and enjoy daily life. A successful claim may allow you to recover:
- Medical bills for treatment, imaging, and therapy
- Future treatment needs, including physical therapy or chiropractic care
- Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress and inconvenience
- Reduced quality of life for lingering or chronic pain
An experienced attorney can help calculate these damages and support your claim with evidence from your medical providers.
How Long Do I Have to File a Whiplash Claim in Texas?
In Texas, you typically have two years from the date of your accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. If you wait too long, you may lose your right to compensation altogether.
However, the two-year window can sometimes be extended in limited circumstances—such as when the injured person is a minor or the injury wasn’t immediately discovered. It’s best to speak with a lawyer as early as possible to avoid missing important deadlines.
How Insurance Companies Undervalue Whiplash Claims
Many insurance companies are quick to downplay whiplash injuries, especially when X-rays or scans show no broken bones. They may offer a quick settlement that doesn’t cover future care or lost wages.
Insurance adjusters are trained to:
- Minimize claims with “invisible” injuries
- Argue that your symptoms are unrelated
- Push for a low settlement before long-term symptoms appear
Working with an experienced personal injury attorney helps ensure your pain and losses are taken seriously—and that your settlement reflects the full impact of the injury.
Talk to a Dallas–Fort Worth Whiplash Injury Lawyer Today
You don’t have to accept less than you deserve. If you’re suffering from whiplash after a car accident or other incident in Dallas–Fort Worth, our attorneys are here to help. We’ll evaluate your case, gather medical evidence, and negotiate for full and fair compensation. Contact Rochelle McCullough today for a free consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I prove my whiplash injury if it doesn’t show up on an X-ray?
Whiplash injuries often involve soft tissue damage that won’t appear on imaging tests. Diagnosis typically relies on your symptoms, medical evaluations, and your doctor’s notes. Timely treatment, consistent records, and a clear connection to the accident are crucial for proving your injury.
What if I didn’t go to the hospital right after the accident?
It’s common for whiplash symptoms to develop hours or even a day after the incident. While immediate care is ideal, you can still pursue a claim if you sought treatment shortly afterward and documented your symptoms. Let your attorney know when and how your pain began so they can help build your case.
Can whiplash lead to long-term problems?
Yes. While many people recover fully, others experience chronic neck pain, headaches, or stiffness that lasts for months or longer. Some develop secondary issues like sleep disruption or depression. If your symptoms persist, you may be eligible for additional compensation for long-term impacts.