Whiplash is a painful injury caused when the neck is forcefully moved back and forth in an accident. While it can be the consequence of a sports accident, physical abuse, or other trauma to the neck, it's most commonly caused by impact in a rear-end collision or another type of crash.
If you suffered whiplash in an accident caused by a negligent driver, don't make the mistake that some people do of not taking the injury seriously. It's still necessary to pursue a claim for compensation with the negligent driver’s insurance company.
Symptoms of Whiplash
Signs of whiplash often develop within a day of a car accident, but this isn't always the case. Symptoms of this injury include:
- Stiffness in the neck and pain, which can worsen with movement
- Limited ability to move the neck
- Headaches that often start at the base of the spine
- Shoulder, upper arm, or arm tenderness/pain
- Tingling or numbness in an arm and/or hand
- Fatigue
- Dizziness
- Blurred vision
- Ringing in the ears
- Difficulties with concentration and memory
- Sleep problems
- Depression
Treatments for a Whiplash Injury
While some people will recover from whiplash within a few weeks of their car accidents, other victims may suffer chronic pain complications for months or years. The goals of treatment for this condition are to manage the pain and restore the person’s normal range of movement in his neck. Medical treatments can include:
- Rest
- Application of heat or cold to the affected area
- Over-the-counter medications, prescription pain medications, muscle relaxants, and injections
- Physical therapy and exercises
Your Right to Compensation
If your whiplash was caused by a car accident, you may be entitled to compensation for your medical treatments, lost wages, and pain and suffering from the negligent driver.
However, these claims can be complicated to settle with an at-fault driver’s insurance company, which may discount the seriousness of your injuries. You need the assistance of an experienced car accident attorney if you hope to receive what you deserve in a settlement.
To learn about our extensive experience helping auto accident victims settle claims for whiplash and other injuries, call our office today to schedule your free initial consultation.
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