If you are involved in an auto collision, the injuries you sustain could have long-term repercussions. In fact, some injuries may not be readily apparent, only becoming so days after the crash. For example, whiplash from car accidents can be a serious neck injury that affects victims for a long time. After getting the medical treatment you need, consider speaking with New York, NY lawyers Gary J. Douglas and Michael A. London.
The legal team at Douglas & London would like to go over some of the basics of whiplash below. We’ll note the causes and symptoms of whiplash, and why the injury should never be taken for granted.
About Whiplash
Whiplash is a type of neck injury that is caused by the sudden and forceful movement of the neck. Picture the cracking of a whip and you will have a good idea of the neck motion that is involved. This violent movement of the neck can injure the vertebrae in the cervical spine, the discs between the vertebrae, ligaments, muscles, nerves, and other tissues.
Signs and Symptoms of Whiplash
The following symptoms typically develop within 24 hours of the whiplash injury:
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- Neck pain
- Severe pain when moving the neck
- Stiffness of the neck
- Reduced range of motion of the neck
- Headaches (typically starting at the base of the skull)
- Soreness in the upper back, shoulders, and arms
- Numbness or tingling in the arms
- Fatigue
- Dizziness
In addition, some people who experience whiplash may also notice the following:
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- Blurry vision
- Problems sleeping
- Ringing in the ears
- Sleep problems
- Problems with concentration
- Lapses in memory
- Depression
Rear End Auto Accidents and Whiplash
While all sorts of collisions can cause whiplash, this neck injury is most commonly associated with rear-end collisions. The sudden impact from behind and the forceful back-and-forward motion of the head in response create the optimal conditions for whiplash. Headrests limit the severity of whiplash, but cannot entirely prevent the neck injury from occurring.
Low-Speed Impacts and Whiplash
Vehicles do not have to be traveling fast for whiplash to occur. Even low-speed collisions can lead to whiplash. In fact, collisions as slow as 5 miles per hour have been known to cause whiplash. This is why crashes in parking lots, school zones, and driveways can be just as serious as other kinds of accidents.
Long-Term Effects of Whiplash
The effects of whiplash can last for days, weeks, and sometimes even months. This can lead to time off from work, the need for medical attention, additional chiropractic care, and other expenses. The elderly are especially vulnerable to the serious lasting effects of whiplash.
Holding Negligent Motorists Accountable
If you have been injured in a crash that was another person’s fault, our law firm can hold them liable for your injuries. We can help you seek damages for medical expenses, lost wages, and property damage associated with your collision. We are here to provide sound legal counsel and peace of mind as you move forward with your recovery.
Learn More About Your Legal Options
For more information about your legal rights and options following a neck injury such as whiplash, contact an experienced personal injury lawyer. The legal team at Douglas & London is here to help you. We can be reached by phone at (212) 566-7500.