Collecting Compensation for Whiplash
Many car accident victims suffer from whiplash, which occurs when the muscles and ligaments of the neck and upper back are strained after a forceful impact causes the head to jerk forward or backward. Although many cases of whiplash are minor and heal within a few weeks, others are much more serious and can lead to chronic pain that makes it difficult to sustain employment or even to take part in day to day activities. Fortunately, injured parties may be able to collect compensation from the responsible individuals, so if you suffer from whiplash as a result of a car crash caused by someone else’s negligence, it is critical to speak with an experienced motor vehicle accident attorney who can explain your legal options.
Common Symptoms
Whiplash occurs when the muscles and ligaments of the neck are stretched beyond their typical range of motion. Although symptoms vary depending on the seriousness of the injury, some of the most common side effects suffered by whiplash victims include:
- Headaches, usually starting at the base of the skull;
- Loss of range of motion in the neck;
- Lower back pain;
- Neck pain and stiffness;
- Numbness in the arm or hand; and
- Pain in the shoulder or shoulder blade.
In severe cases, injured parties may even experience more debilitating symptoms, such as:
- Chronic pain;
- Depression;
- Nausea;
- Blurred vision;
- Muscle spasms; and
- Ringing in the ears.
Most whiplash victims recover full range of motion within a few months of their accident. However, it is not uncommon for injured parties to struggle with chronic pain and other side effects for years after the crash.
Possible Treatments
The course of treatment recommended for a whiplash victim depends on a number of factors, including the severity of the injury as well as the victim’s:
- Age;
- Sex; and
- Physical health.
Some of the most common courses of treatment include:
- Performing gentle exercises and stretching;
- Physical therapy;
- Using a traction device;
- Taking prescribed pain medication; and
- Professional massage.
Diagnosing and treating whiplash can become prohibitively expensive over time. For instance, diagnosis usually requires victims to undergo multiple tests, such as CT scans and MRIs, which are notoriously costly. Whiplash victims will also have to foot the bill for multiple doctor’s appointments, as well as any courses of treatment ordered by the physician. These costs can quickly add up to overwhelm a victim’s finances, making it especially important for injured parties to seek compensation from the responsible parties for their losses.
Unfortunately, establishing that an injury was caused by someone else’s negligence can be difficult, so it is important for accident victims to retain all medical records related to their injury. These records can make all the difference in the outcome of a case, although it may also be necessary to seek the advice of a medical expert.
Contact us Today to Speak With an Experienced Motor Vehicle Accident Attorney
If you were recently injured in a car crash that was caused by someone else’s negligent or reckless behavior, please contact Boone & Davis to schedule a free consultation with an experienced car accident attorney. Our Fort Lauderdale legal team is prepared to help you today.
Resource:
rush.edu/health-wellness/discover-health/5-facts-about-whiplash
