Whiplash is a unique injury that most often occurs in a rear-end car accident. However, any type of accident that forces the human body to snap violently back and forth can lead to whiplash. Some other common causes of whiplash include slip and fall accidents, blows to the head, or even assault. High speeds are not required for someone to experience a whiplash injury in a car accident; in fact, studies have shown that even at low speeds, a sudden impact can create a whipping motion of the body, leading to injury.
Whiplash injuries do not always appear immediately after an accident. Because of the body’s natural adrenaline response after an accident, the body does not have time to relax. Therefore, a person may not start exhibiting whiplash symptoms until a few days later. Once the symptoms start to appear, they can gradually increase in intensity. Some of the symptoms commonly associated with whiplash include:
It is important that accident victims seek medical treatment immediately after their symptoms begin to appear. Whiplash injuries often start mild and, if left untreated, can lead to chronic pain.
Whiplash is commonly confused for a soft tissue injury. While it is a form of soft tissue injury, soft tissue injuries can also include any damage to the muscles, ligaments, nerves, or tendons due to trauma – and are not isolated to just the neck. Soft tissue injuries can also occur due to overuse, such as repetitive motions that lead to carpal tunnel syndrome. Whiplash, on the other hand, requires a sudden, violent thrust backwards and forwards to cause the injury.
Neck injuries are serious and can lead to a wide array of health problems if not treated. Therefore, anyone suffering from a whiplash injury or soft tissue injury should seek medical attention right away. If new symptoms develop after initial treatment, the treating physician should be notified immediately for follow-up care.
If a whiplash injury is caused by someone’s negligence – such as in a car accident – individuals suffering from whiplash injuries may be entitled to compensation via an insurance claim or personal injury lawsuit.
If you have suffered from whiplash or soft tissue injuries due to someone’s negligence, you may have a personal injury claim. Schedule your free consultation with The Law Offices of Kevin J. Roach, LLC today. Because whiplash injuries can be costly to treat and even force a person to miss work, it is important you receive compensation for your injuries. Call 866-519-0085 to schedule your appointment or fill out an online contact form.
