Whiplash injuries are common and although it is easy to claim the compensation you deserve following such an injury, it is always best to do what you can to avoid this injury in the first place. Whiplash can be very painful and can last for years, or even never leave completely. So what can you do to minimise the risk?

Features Within Your Car

Modern cars have brilliant safety features compared to their historical counterparts. Make use of the features which come with your car.

1. Adjust the headrest: Many drivers do not adjust their headrest accurately. If you share your car with other drivers you must ensure that your headrest is adjusted to your requirements each time you use the car. The headrest must be located as closely to the back of your head as possible and the top of the headrest must be in line with the top of your head.  About an inch of distance at most should be between your head and the headrest. This will prevent your head being flung backwards very far in the event of a collision, giving your delicate head and neck support.
2. Adjust the seat: Your seat must be adjusted to support your body, placed in a fairly upright position not in a relaxed position as many drivers place it. You should get used to this positioning of the seat with time.
3. When buying new car choose one with integrated safety features: many new cars have specially adapted seats with brackets in the seat which cause the seats to have the ability to move slightly in the event of a collision ensuring support is kept throughout the movement.
4. Wear your seatbelt: it’s a legal requirement and it is sensible. Not only will it reduce your likelihood of injury, it reduces the injury you would cause to your passengers should you not be wearing a belt.

Adjusting Your Driving

1. Check your mirrors: this will keep you aware of the position of your fellow road users.
2. Ensure your break lights are working: your break lights are so important. They show other drivers when you are slowing or stopped. Therefore check your lights regularly.
3. Use your hazards: if you have to stop suddenly make sure you turn your hazards on as it will make other drivers aware you are slowing rapidly and will reduce the risk of a rear end shunt.
4. Use the handbreak: at traffic lights use the handbreak as this will mean should you be impacted from behind your car will not move as far forward as it would if you merely had your foot on the break.
5. Use break lights when stationary: merely using your handbreak does not warn other drivers that you are stationary, your break lights are your signal to other road users.
6. Keep your distance

If you have been unlucky and have sustained a whiplash injury , you could be entitled to make a whiplash compensation claim. Contact your solicitor  today for more advice.