Car accident victims may sustain any number of a wide range of injuries, but one of the most common injuries is whiplash. Whiplash is usually not thought of as an injury worth seeking treatment for as it can happen in a number of situations, even turning one’s head too quickly, but it is very common, especially in rear-end crashes.
Although whiplash may be considered an “everyday” type of injury, it can be much more serious. If you have sustained whiplash in an auto accident, it is important that you seek medical attention as well as legal advice concerning the crash.
Contact Alpert Schreyer Personal Injury Lawyers at (301) 932-9997 to schedule a consultation.
What Is Whiplash?
Whiplash is a soft-tissue injury that affects the muscles, tendons, and ligaments of the neck. It is caused by sudden and/or abnormal motion or force applied to the neck that causes movement beyond the neck’s usual range of motion. Whiplash is also referred to as a neck strain or sprain. Although whiplash does not usually cause long-term damage, it can be a very painful and limiting injury.
Whiplash Signs & Symptoms
The symptoms of a whiplash injury may manifest immediately or several days after a traffic accident and may include:
- Neck pain
- Neck stiffness
- Neck swelling
- Dizziness
- Headaches
- Muscle spasms
- Burning or prickling sensations
- Shoulder pain
- Back pain
- Shooting pains
- Limited motion
- Irritability
- Depression
- Fatigue
- Difficulty concentrating
- Memory loss
The severity of the injury typically determines the severity of the symptoms; however, if a whiplash injury victim does not seek medical attention or treatment, the symptoms may worsen.
Treating a Whiplash Injury
Depending on the severity of the injury and symptoms, a whiplash injury may be treated in a number of different ways, including anti-inflammatory drugs, heat application, pain management medications, muscle relaxants, antidepressants, and wearing a cervical collar. Serious whiplash injuries may also require physical therapy, range of motion exercises, and cervical traction. Most often, whiplash injury victims recover within three months, although some may still experience neck pain and/or headaches for much longer.
Pursuing Maximum Compensation
Suffering any injury after a traffic accident can result in serious financial, emotional, and professional consequences. A whiplash injury that requires physical therapy and extended use of medication can become financially burdensome, and the symptoms can affect a person’s ability to work.
There is no such thing as “just whiplash.” If you have sustained a whiplash injury in a vehicle crash caused by the negligent or reckless actions of another, you deserve justice. The dedicated Maryland car accident attorneys at Alpert Schreyer Injury Accident Lawyers can help you obtain the maximum compensation you are entitled to.
Contact us today to learn more about your legal rights and options; call 301-936-0042.