Whiplash Caused By a Car Accident

Rear-end collisions are the most common causes of whiplash injuries. A whiplash injury is painful and can be costly for the victim. If you have been involved in an accident that caused whiplash, you may be finding it difficult to return to work and your normal lifestyle.

Whiplash is defined as a hyperextension to the neck, which is usually the result of being hit from behind. It is believed that a whiplash injury occurs when the body is pushed forward, but the head remains behind momentarily. The head rocks up and back and some ligaments and muscles may be torn or stretched as a result. The muscles contract in a reflex action and could lead to overcompensation. Fortunately, whiplash is not considered a life threatening injury, but it can still greatly inconvenience the victim. Whiplash can lead to a lengthy period of partial disability.

It has been estimated that costs related to whiplash injuries can reach $30 billion annually in the United States. This figure factors in expenses such as medical care, disability, sick leave, lost productivity and litigation.

Whiplash Symptoms
The symptoms of whiplash can vary tremendously. Most people will quickly recover, but others deal with the painful side effects for years. Typical symptoms of whiplash include:

• Neck pain
• Backaches
• Sensory disturbance (i.e. pins and needles sensation) in the arms and legs
• Shoulder pain
• Headaches

Treatment for Whiplash
If you feel that you may have received a whiplash injury, your physician will usually order an x-ray. Your physician will want to rule out that there wasn’t damage done to your bones, such as a bone fracture. Additional medical imaging may be conducted to make sure there are no other injuries. If whiplash is detected, your physician may prescribe a soft cervical collar. This collar will provide additional support to the neck. Bed rest is sometimes recommended and medication may be given depending on the severity of the pain. Physical therapy is often pursed as it will help strengthen the muscles and reduce painful motions.

Compensation for a Whiplash Injury
A whiplash injury can be expensive, as you may be forced to take time away from work and the medical bills can add up. If someone else was to blame for your car accident, you may be entitled to compensation. Contact Vujasinovic & Beckcom P.L.L.C. for advice regarding your accident case at (877) 724-7800 or (713) 224-7800.