Whiplash injuries are one of the most common types of injuries car accident victims can suffer in a car accident. Just because they are common injuries does not mean they are not serious, however, and are not an injury that car accident victims may find themselves needing help with.
It is important for car accident victims to pursue whatever medical care and treatment they need to treat their car accident injuries, including whiplash injuries. Whiplash injuries can sometimes be challenging to treat and can also worsen over time. Whiplash injuries occur when the victim’s head is thrust violently back in forth such as during a car accident. Whiplash injuries can occur at any speed, including at low speeds.
Whiplash injuries include injuries to the vertebrae, muscles and ligaments in the neck. Whiplash injuries are also called a cervical sprain, cervical strain or hyperextension injury. The symptoms of a whiplash injury include serious neck pain that is dull and aching in nature; tightness and stiffness in the neck; back pain; headaches; dizziness; problems with balance and equilibrium; memory problems; and difficulty focusing or with concentration. Because of the symptoms associated with a whiplash injury, and the medical care and treatment required to treat a whiplash injury, whiplash injuries can result in physical, financial and emotional damages for victims.
Victims of car accidents who have suffered a whiplash injury should be familiar with the legal protections available to them. A personal injury claim for damages can help them with their medical expenses, lost wages and pain and suffering damages while they focus on recovery.