How Do You Know if You Have Whiplash After a Car Accident?

Being involved in a car accident can be scary. Whether the accident was serious or just a minor fender bender, there is always the chance that you or the other driver involved may experience some sort of injury. And, depending on the injury sustained, symptoms may not present themselves right away — meaning you won’t know that you’ve been hurt until sometime later when the adrenaline has worn off. One such injury is whiplash, and it’s one of the most common injuries sustained during a car accident.

What is whiplash?

Whiplash is a neck injury that occurs when the head suddenly moves forward and then backward by force. During this type of injury, the soft tissues — such as the muscles and ligaments — of your neck extend beyond their typical range of motion. Whiplash is usually sustained during rear-end collisions and other auto accidents. But, while whiplash is often considered a minor injury, it can result in long-term pain.

Symptoms of Whiplash

Whiplash symptoms typically occur within 24 to 48 hours after an accident. If you experience numbness, tingling, or weakness in any of your extremities or if the pain spreads to your arms or shoulders, you should see a doctor right away. Otherwise, common symptoms of whiplash include:

• Neck pain
• Stiffness in the neck
• Dizziness
• Headaches
• Tunnel or blurred vision
• Drowsiness
• Brain fog
• Tinnitus
• Memory issues

Whiplash Treatments

Treatments for whiplash can vary on the severity of your injury. It’s crucial — for your health and insurance case — to see a doctor as soon as possible after a car accident, even if you don’t feel like you’ve been hurt. A trained physician can determine if the tissue has been damaged and to what extent.

In most cases, whiplash can be treated with over-the-counter medications, but if your injury is severe, your doctor may prescribe painkillers and muscle relaxants. You’ll likely be given a foam collar to wear the first couple of days after your accident to ensure your neck is supported. And, in some rare cases, physical therapy may be required to prevent further injury.

You may experience whiplash symptoms for one to two months after your accident. But, sometimes, whiplash symptoms can last up to two years before resolving themselves. In serious cases, whiplash can be connected to additional injuries — such as joint, disc, and ligament damage in the spine and neck. These injuries have lasting and life-altering effects.

How a Lawyer Can Help

An experienced personal injury attorney knows all the questions to ask to get the full story. In addition to talking with you, they will start a process called discovery. During this stage of litigation, your attorney can request medical and mechanic records, surveillance videos, and take the sworn testimony of the other driver as well as witnesses.

A lawyer will design a strategy to move forward with the case based on all the information obtained — including preparing you for interrogations, reviewing your records, taking into account potential future medical issues, and discussing possible outcomes. In short, having legal representation will take a huge burden off your shoulders so that you can focus on healing from your injuries and resuming your life while they do the heavy lifting as your case moves forward.

If You Got Into a Car Accident and Sustained Injuries, Let Us Help You

Every car accident is different. Many factors determine the drivers’ level of liability. Let’s discuss your case. We’ll look for ways to have all of your expenses covered — for present and future treatment — as long as they relate to the accident.

If you or someone you love has been involved in an accident, call us at (855) 680-4911 or schedule a free consultation. At Hartpence Law, we have experienced attorneys who regularly represent clients involved in motor vehicle accidents, and we can help you determine the best next step.

Disclaimer: This blog is for informational purposes only and does not create an attorney/client relationship.