How whiplash injuries happen
When a car comes to a sudden stop due to a collision, the seatbelt holds the body in place, but the head keeps going. The head moves forward, causing hyperflexion in the neck, and then jerks backward, which causes hyperextension. As in any other joint in the body, if the neck moves beyond its normal limits, the ligaments that connect the bones (in this case, the vertebrae) can be torn.
Whiplash most commonly occurs in rear-end accidents because the force of impact coming from behind pushes the head and neck forward, but it can happen in any car accident. Some of the symptoms associated with whiplash include:
- Back, neck, and shoulder pain
- Impaired vision
- Jaw pain and soreness
- Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
- Dizziness
- Nausea or vomiting
Importantly, though, those symptoms don’t always appear right away. In the immediate aftermath of a car crash, you are still in “fight or flight” mode and your body is flooded with hormones that can mask pain. That’s why you need to see a doctor right away after any car accident, even if you initially feel fine.
Long-term health issues associated with whiplash
Fortunately, many cases of whiplash heal within a few weeks. However, it’s not unusual for effects to linger for months or years, especially in older victims or those who have existing back or neck pain. There’s also some evidence that whiplash injuries can be cumulative – if you’ve had whiplash before, the next time may be more severe.
In addition, whiplash symptoms can be a warning sign of a more serious injury. When the head violently jerks back and forth, the same motion that causes hyperextension and hyperflexion of the neck can also cause the brain to rattle around inside the skull, resulting in a concussion.
We will take on the legal battle following your whiplash injury
Whiplash is common in rear-end accidents that occur at low speed, which means the insurance company may downplay the extent of your injuries, or even accuse you of faking. They might question whether it’s possible that a serious injury could occur under those circumstances. That’s why you need to see a doctor right away to create a record of your injuries, and it’s why you need an experienced attorney on your side.
We know how to carefully investigate whiplash cases and find the evidence that the crash really did cause a significant injury. We put in the time and effort to fully document every effect the injury has had on your life. Throughout the process, we will stand up to the insurance company on your behalf while you focus on healing. We stand up to them in negotiations and, if necessary, at trial, and we are prepared to do what it takes to get full and fair compensation for your injury.
Gathering evidence immediately is critical, so you need to contact us right away. The sooner we get involved, the more effectively we can protect your rights against the insurance company and build a case they can’t ignore. If you’re dealing with whiplash after a car accident, get a proven fighter on your side. Schedule your free consultation with the whiplash attorneys at Boughter Sinak, LLC today.
