What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Whiplash?

When you are involved in an accident, such as a rear-end collision, it can be incredibly overwhelming. While you may feel okay in the immediate aftermath, it is important to understand that not all injuries will immediately present themselves. As such, it is critical to familiarize yourself with the signs and symptoms of whiplash, which is a neck injury that can take days to appear following a collision. If you are involved in an accident, the following blog explores what you should know about this injury, including whether or not you can fight for compensation. Additionally, you will learn why it is in your best interest to connect with our Irvine personal injury lawyers to assist you through these complicated times.

What Is Whiplash, and What Are the Signs of This Injury?

Whiplash is a type of neck injury most commonly sustained in rear-end car collisions, but it can also result from slips and falls, physical assaults, and other incidents. Generally, whiplash occurs when the neck and head are violently and rapidly forced backwards and forwards, similar to the cracking of a whip. As such, this rapid hyperextension and hyperflexion of the neck can result in injury to the muscles and ligaments in your neck.

Unfortunately, whiplash is often viewed as a minor injury despite the long-term impacts and pain you may suffer. However, this injury does often require care from a medical professional, even for low-grade injuries. In some instances, whiplash can be so severe that it can cause fractures to your vertebrae.

If you have been involved in an accident, it is imperative to understand the common signs and symptoms of whiplash to ensure you can seek medical care. As such, you should be on alert for the following:

• Neck pain and discomfort
• Stiffness and loss of range of motion in the neck
• Headaches, especially beginning at the base of your skull
• Pain in your upper back, shoulders, and arms
• Tingling sensations in your arms
• Fatigue
• Tinnitus
• Blurry vision
• Difficulty sleeping

Can I Seek Compensation for Damages?

Because many assume whiplash is a minor injury, victims may be unaware they could be eligible to file a claim against the negligent party responsible for their injuries. Whiplash can result in a number of both economic and non-economic damages. The economic damages you could seek include medical care, lost wages if you had to take time off work to heal, and property damage. In addition, you could fight for non-economic damages, like mental anguish, pain and suffering, anxiety, and insomnia. As such, connecting with an attorney who can help you fight for the compensation you deserve is critical.

At California Personal Injury Law Firm, APC, our dedicated legal team understands how complicated it can be to navigate a personal injury case while healing from the injuries you have endured. Our firm is committed to fighting for the best possible outcome for you if you have suffered due to someone else’s negligence. Contact us today to learn how we may assist you.