Whiplash is a very common injury that results from a car accident. Whiplash is a soft tissue injury to the neck caused by sudden, abrupt and rapid movement of the neck backward and forwards. This backward and forward motion is called hyperextension and hyperflexion of the neck. It can cause injury to the spinal vertebrae, ligaments and muscles around the neck. Headaches, neck stiffness, dizziness and even concentration difficulties are symptoms that stem from whiplash.
Whiplash injuries may seem minor, or nonexistent, at first because of the lack of visibility of the injury itself. Symptoms can slowly become noticeable several days after the accident and if left untreated can lead to severe chronic pain. This pain can last for days, weeks, months or even years, depending on the severity of the injury.
Luckily, whiplash can be easily diagnosed using imaging tests, such as an MRI or CT scan. A simple x-ray will not show damage or injury to the soft tissues (discs, muscles and ligaments). An MRI or CT will allow your medical professional to properly diagnose and treat the precise location and type of injury. It is imperative to seek medical treatment and diagnostic testing right away if you feel any type of symptoms after a collision.
Most of these types of injuries respond favorably to physical therapy or chiropractic adjustments and healing time is short. Medical bills add up quickly, you may lose your wages due to time off work, and your insurance company may deny your claim or make an inadequate settlement offer. For injuries of any kind, small or large, following a motor vehicle accident, contacting a personal injury attorney right away is important. In the aftermath of a car accident, you need someone representing your best interests while you heal – not those of an insurance company or major corporation. You need an experienced car accident attorney like the ones found at Kaufman Law, P.C., who are ready to help with insurance settlements and liability claims. At Kaufman Law, we provide FREE consultations for injured victims, leaving no reason for delay to call for help. Contact us today for your case review.