Whiplash Injuries From Car Accidents
Posted on February 12, 2021
How do I know if I suffered whiplash from a car accident?
Whiplash, also known as Cervical Acceleration-Deceleration, is a spine injury caused by a sudden movement of the head. Most whiplash cases are caused by car accidents, especially if you have been rear-ended. While rare, other potential causes include:
- Assault
- Bungee jumping
- Roller coaster
- Falls or slips
- Other high-impact activities
Although people regard this injury as minor, severe cases of whiplash from car accidents can last for months, cause cervical problems and require extensive treatment.
Whiplash injury symptoms
Whiplash symptoms can be complicated and hard to diagnose. For some people, they go away in a matter of days. For others, symptoms can become chronic, ranging from mild pain to cognitive problems.
The most common whiplash symptom is neck pain, which can be mild or excruciating. Other symptoms include:
- Neck stiffness: Caused by pain, joint problem, or the tightening of a muscle.
- Neck instability: Commonly caused by stretched or torn soft tissues. In some cases, by a fracture.
- Shoulder or back pain: Pain from strained or torn neck tissues is sometimes referred to other areas, like the upper back and shoulders.
- Headaches: Often caused by muscle tightening or an irritated cervical joint.
- Dizziness: Can be caused by neck instability or a concussion.
- Memory and/or concentration problems: Could be from a brain injury, or related to various types of stress.
These symptoms might manifest immediately after the accident. However, in some cases, they can take a few hours or days to appear. Due to the potentially high number of symptoms, they are often collectively referred to as Whiplash Associated Disorders.
If you have been in a car accident and suspect a whiplash injury, you should see a doctor as soon as possible, even if you don't feel any symptoms.
How long does whiplash take to heal?
In most cases, whiplash symptoms go away in a few days. However, depending on the severity of the injury, they might take months or even longer. Physical therapy plays an important role in whiplash recovery. It will help you feel better and may prevent further injury.
Treatment varies from person to person, based on the extent of the neck injury. Mild cases only need over-the-counter medication, rest, and exercise, while others may need prescription drugs and specialized treatment.
Can I sue for whiplash injury?
Yes, you can!
If your whiplash injury was caused by a car accident that wasn't your fault, you might be eligible for compensation from the driver who hit you. We at First Choice Law, P.A. can help you claim the compensation you deserve for any damage occasioned, both from the party who caused the accident as well as insurance companies.
If you plan to file a whiplash claim, here are a few points to consider:
- Record all your injury-related expenses: Medical bills, lost wages, out-of-pocket expenses, and insurance co-pays.
- Any accident evidence will help strengthen your case, like pictures, recordings, police reports, and witnesses' information.
- Consider calling an experienced lawyer before talking to insurance adjusters.
Our expert team of injury attorneys can guide you through the process and take care of the complex legal work for you. If you plan suing for whiplash, call us at 321-999-1111 or fill our online form to schedule a free consultation.
If you or someone you love suffered a whiplash injury because of another person’s negligence, please call Jason Recksiedler, certified as an expert in civil trial law by the Florida Bar, or Caroline Fischer Espi. We are available at 321-999-1111 24 hours a day. You may also send us an email or fill out the online form located on this page and we will contact you back shortly.