British drivers most likely to claim for whiplash

British drivers make more claims for whiplash per car collision than any other western European country, according to research this month.

Almost 80% of road traffic collisions where one driver admits liability will lead to a claim whiplash claim compared to 35 per cent in the Netherlands and 30 per cent in France found the report by LV. The injury occurs when sudden movement causes damage to soft tissues ion the neck, and is linked to road traffic collisions in which a car has been hit from behind.

The number of people suffering whiplash has increased dramatically in recent years. In 2007, more than 430,000 people claimed for whiplash, a figure up by a quarter over the preceding five year period.

In a bid to reduce to reduce the number of claims for whiplash, from 1 April 2015 those wishing to submit compensation claim for whiplash will have to get a medical report from a specially certified doctor.

Protecting yourself from whiplash

As a drivers or car passenger, you can reduce the likelihood of whiplash by adjusting head rests so the top is level with the top of your head. Ideally, you should allow your head to rest against the restraint at all times. Leaving a safe gap between your car and the vehicle in front helps avoid the type of shunt that causes whiplash.

Motorists with breakdown cover from the ETA are entitled to free legal advice from a specialist team.

ETA breakdown cover

Established over 20 years ago, and with over 5,000 recovery trucks on call 24/7, we have a proven track record of providing efficient, reliable breakdown cover.
We handpick only the best local mechanics and garages around Britain to send out if you break down. We believe this way of working is efficient, environmentally friendly and helps support local communities and economies, too.

On top of this, we offset the carbon emissions of the recovery trucks that go out to assist you, reducing the impact your breakdown has on our environment. We also support the ETA Trust, a charity we set up in 1994 to campaign for a safer, cleaner transport future.