Whiplash During a Vehicle Accident Can Be More Serious Than You’d Think
The initial shock and stress of a vehicle accident can cause those involved to ignore injuries that may initially feel minor. After all, there are often so many other problems to address after a crash that seeing a medical professional may seem unnecessary.
However, what might be brushed off as a minor neck strain could be a more serious injury with a lasting impact on a person’s physical well-being. It is for this reason that anyone who has been involved in an automobile accident should seek medical attention right away – no matter their injuries.
What is Whiplash?
Whiplash refers to a quick and forceful back-and-forth “whip” motion of the head and neck. This type of injury can result from all sorts of trauma, but it commonly occurs when a motorist’s vehicle is rear-ended. A person who experiences whiplash during a crash may suffer from neck pain or stiffness, possibly in combination with a headache.
Minor Symptoms or Lasting Problems
Physical complications caused by whiplash usually go away after a few months with proper treatment, according to Mayo Clinic. However, severe injuries to the back, head, and neck often share symptoms similar to those of whiplash. Those injuries can cause long-term or permanent problems. Throat pain, and difficulty swallowing, for example, could indicate an esophagus injury. Pain in the neck or back could be a sign of bone fractures or injured vertebrates.
Furthermore, a mild traumatic brain injury (TBI) can result from the same whipping motion of the head and neck. Treatment for a TBI requires very specific guidelines to follow. Failure to do so can be fatal or cause permanent brain damage.
No matter how mild a neck injury may be during a vehicle accident, drivers and passengers should seek medical attention immediately to receive a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.
Protecting Your Legal Rights
Vehicle accidents can leave people with permanent injuries and pain – not to mention medical expenses and other related bills. After victims speak with their health care provider, they should contact an experienced law firm to protect their legal rights. Acting quickly can allow the legal team to gather as many critical details about the accident as possible.
The personal injury lawyers at Gay Chacker & Ginsburg can help if you’ve been injured in a vehicle accident. Our attorneys can investigate the crash and answer your questions about seeking justice and compensation.
