What to Do If You Experience Neck Trauma After an Accident
When you are involved in a car accident, it is unlikely that you will have a chance to brace yourself before the impact. A collision between two vehicles often causes a forceful blow that throws your neck forwards and backward. The sudden motion can result in a condition known as whiplash. Whiplash can be severe, leading to long-term health problems.
At Coletrane & Messersmith, we represent individuals who have been injured in car accidents throughout Newport News. We know how to maximize damages to ensure that our clients receive the largest compensation possible. Our lawyers are well-versed in handling even the most complex injury cases. Contact our office today to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation.
What Is Whiplash?
Whiplash is a common condition that is caused whenever there is a forceful blow to the head or body. When the neck is rapidly thrown forward and backward, it can strain ligaments, muscles, and tissues. In some cases, it may also cause harm to the spine and the disks between the bones.
If you experience any kind of neck pain or discomfort after a car accident, you need to seek medical attention. Whiplash can be deceiving since your body may be in shock in the days that follow a collision. Even if you are unsure of the severity of your neck injury, you should still be evaluated by a medical professional as soon as possible.
What Causes Whiplash?
The most common cause of whiplash is car accidents. In particular, whiplash often presents after a rear-end collision. However, whiplash can occur after any sudden impact that causes the head or neck to be thrown violently back and forth.
Leading causes of whiplash include:
- Car accidents
- Contact sports
- Slip and fall accidents
- Violent assaults
- Biking accidents
- Snowboarding or skiing accidents
- Gymnastic accidents
While the causes may vary, you should always consult with an attorney if you experience any neck pain or trauma after an accident. Depending on the situation, you might be entitled to compensation.
What Are Common Symptoms Related to Whiplash?
Whiplash may present with a number of symptoms. In some instances, the signs and symptoms of whiplash may seem relatively unrelated. Also, the symptoms may not show up right away, which can make it difficult to determine the severity of the harm unless you seek medical attention.
Signs and symptoms of whiplash:
- Back and neck pain
- Stiffness in the neck
- Tingling in the upper extremities
- Limited movement or loss of range of motion
- Headaches or dizziness
- Tenderness in the shoulders or upper back
- Irritability or difficulty sleeping
- Tinnitus (ringing in the ears)
Whiplash is a serious condition that should not be taken lightly. Untreated, the symptoms may get worse, causing long-term health problems.
What Are the Long-Term Effects of Whiplash?
Getting a timely diagnosis of whiplash can help ensure that you recover quickly. Without treatment, the conditions related to whiplash can worsen or cause dangerous side effects.
Long-term effects of whiplash:
- Cognitive problems, including memory problems and trouble concentrating
- Chronic pain and headaches
- Ongoing dizziness
- Long-term tinnitus
- Blurred vision
- Numbness or weakness in the upper extremities
- Permanent personality changes
- Jaw pain
If you are involved in an accident and experience neck pain or discomfort, you should consult with an attorney. An attorney can help you understand your rights and will fight for you to receive the largest recovery possible.
Contact Our Office to Schedule a Free Consultation
Were you injured in an accident that caused whiplash? Contact our office to speak directly with an experienced member of our legal team. All consultations are free and without obligation to retain our services.
