Evaluating the Long-term Effects of Whiplash After a Car Accident

Evaluating the Long-term Effects of Whiplash After a Car Accident

After a car accident, it is important that you don’t ignore or underestimate your whiplash injury, as it can have lasting consequences.

Summary

• Whiplash is a common injury resulting from a car wreck. It affects more than 80% of accident victims.
• The short-term effects of whiplash include neck pain, limited range of motion, headaches, and dizziness.
• The long-term effects of whiplash can be devastating, severely impacting a victim’s quality of life.
• The costs associated with whiplash can create a horrible financial burden.
• Hiring a skilled attorney will provide the best chance for a victim to obtain maximum compensation.

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Most people consider whiplash as a “minor” injury after a car wreck. But the long-term effects of whiplash can be debilitating, leading to severe pain, emotional distress, and other issues that can last for months or even years.

At Jones Law Group, our attorneys know how severe whiplash can be. We take this injury very seriously and work passionately to help clients get the money they deserve for their suffering.

After sustaining a whiplash injury in a Florida car accident caused by another driver, it’s time to hire a personal injury attorney. If you would like to learn what we can do for you, please contact us online or call 727-571-1333 for a free consultation.

What is Whiplash?

When the neck experiences a sudden jolt, it will typically whip back and forth violently. This motion causes the neck’s soft tissues to stretch beyond their normal range of motion. This type of injury is commonly associated with rear-end car accidents but can also result from any wreck.

The abrupt motion of the head during these incidents can damage the neck’s ligaments, muscles, and tendons. An estimated 83% of people involved in a vehicle accident suffer this injury.

Short-Term Effects of Whiplash

Immediately after a car accident, individuals who experience whiplash undergo a series of short-term effects that can be both physically and mentally distressing. They can experience a cascade of symptoms, often intensifying in the first few days after the wreck. These are just a few:

Neck Pain and Stiffness

One of the most common short-term effects of whiplash is neck pain and stiffness. This happens when the neck’s soft tissues (muscles, ligaments, and tendons) stretch farther than usual. The pain often stays in the neck area, and the stiffness may hinder normal neck movement.

Headaches

An estimated 80% of whiplash victims experience headaches. The abrupt movement can cause tension in the neck muscles and affect blood flow, resulting in severe head pain. These headaches may be accompanied by sensitivity to light and sound.

Dizziness

The rapid and forceful motion during a car accident can disrupt the body’s balance, resulting in dizziness. The trauma and stress associated with the accident can add an extra layer of discomfort. If dizziness is severe enough, the victim may be unable to return to work.

Difficulty Concentrating

Whiplash can also affect cognition. Victims may have trouble concentrating and find it challenging to focus on tasks or absorb information. This cognitive fog can contribute to heightened stress and anxiety during the accident’s immediate aftermath.

Shoulder Pain, Back Pain, and Tingling Sensations

Whiplash’s impact extends beyond the neck, affecting the shoulders and back. Tingling sensations in the arms can also occur, indicating potential nerve problems due to the trauma.

While these short-term effects can be distressing, they generally improve within a few weeks with appropriate medical care.

Long-Term Effects of Whiplash Injury

When someone suffers from whiplash, they typically assume their symptoms won’t last long. However, some victims suffer long-term effects of whiplash. These effects, which include the following, can significantly impact their quality of life. 

• Chronic neck pain: The most common of the long-term effects of whiplash, neck pain can last for years. In some cases, it can 
• Reduced range of motion: Stiffness and discomfort can limit the ability to turn or tilt the head freely, impacting daily activities and overall mobility.
• Psychological symptoms: Whiplash victims will sometimes develop psychological symptoms such as anxiety or depression. The persistent physical discomfort and limitations imposed by the injury can take a toll on mental well-being, affecting mood and overall mental health.

Managing Long-term Effects of Whiplash Injury

Effectively managing the long-term consequences of whiplash requires a comprehensive approach that addresses both the physical and psychological aspects of the common car accident injury.

Physical Therapy

Physical therapy plays a pivotal role in restoring neck mobility and reducing pain. Tailored exercises and stretches, administered under the guidance of a physical therapist, can gradually improve strength and flexibility in the affected area.

Chiropractic Care

Chiropractic care focuses on aligning the spine and addressing musculoskeletal issues. Chiropractors use hands-on techniques to alleviate pain and improve mobility, offering an alternative or complementary approach to traditional medical treatments.

Specialized Exercises

In addition to formal physical therapy, people suffering from the long-term effects of whiplash may benefit from specialized exercises targeting specific muscle groups and contribute to ongoing rehabilitation.

Medications

Doctors will often prescribe medications to reduce persistent pain and discomfort. These medications can include pain relievers, muscle relaxants, or anti-inflammatory drugs. It would help if you worked closely with healthcare professionals to determine the best regimen for your specific needs.

Psychological Support and Counseling

Psychological support and counseling are often critical to managing the long-term effects of whiplash. Therapists can provide coping strategies to address the emotional toll of car accident injuries and assist individuals in developing resilience.

How Much Does Whiplash Cost?

The financial impact of whiplash extends beyond immediate medical expenses. Long-term medical treatments, therapy sessions, and potentially lost wages due to time away from work can significantly contribute to the overall cost.

For example, it can cost as much as $150 per physical therapy session. Victims of severe whiplash may need to visit a therapist for several years.

In addition to economic damages, the emotional toll and decreased quality of life can further amplify the financial burden on people suffering from chronic whiplash symptoms.

Compensation for Whiplash Injuries

As already stated, treating and dealing with whiplash injuries can take a toll on your finances. It is important to know the legal options you have to secure compensation. These include:

Claim No-Fault Insurance Benefits

Florida is a no-fault state, meaning that regardless of who is at fault in a car accident, the injured party can file a claim with their own insurance company for coverage. Drivers are legally required to have personal injury protection coverage (PIP), which is usually limited.

You can therefore file a no-fault claim with your insurance for compensation for medical expenses and lost wages. This coverage has a limit, so it may not cover all your medical expenses. A personal injury lawyer can help maximize compensation for your claim or pursue other legal options.

Tap Into Uninsured Motorist Coverage

If the at-fault driver is uninsured or underinsured, uninsured motorist coverage can provide additional compensation. The amount of coverage is often limited, and you  need to prove that the other driver was at fault.

File a Personal Injury Claim

You can also file a personal injury claim against the at-fault driver especially where serious injuries have been sustained. Car Insurance benefits may not be sufficient to cover for all expenses, and no fault benefits do not cover non-economic losses.

A car accident lawyer can help you assess your case and determine whether you should file a personal injury case against the other party.

Steps to Take Immediately After a Car Accident If You Suspect a Whiplash Injury

Sustaining injuries in a car wreck can be both traumatizing and costly. Here is what to do in order to protect your well-being and secure your legal rights after a car accident:

1. Ensure Everyone’s Safety

Assess your condition and that of others in the vehicle if possible.  If anyone is injured, call emergency services immediately. If it is practical, move your vehicle to a safe area off the road to prevent further accidents.

2. Call 911

Call the police immediately and report the accident, even if there are no apparent injuries. A police report can be crucial for insurance claims and legal purposes.

3. Gather Information

Get the names, addresses, phone numbers, and insurance information of the other driver(s) involved. Take photos of the accident scene, including the damaged vehicles, any skid marks, and surrounding road conditions. If there are any witnesses, collect their contact information. 

4. Seek Medical Attention

It’s important to seek medical attention, even if you don’t feel pain immediately. Some injuries, including whiplash, may not be apparent right away. Keep the medical documents and bills safely for proof of your injuries and expenses incurred in your claim. Do the same for payment receipts for any costs associated with the accident.

5. Contact Your Insurance Company

Inform your insurance company about the accident as soon as possible. While you will need to provide them with accurate information about how the accident happened or any injuries suffered, avoid speculating or admitting fault. A car accident insurance lawyer can help you process your insurance claims as you focus on your recovery.

6. Consult with a Car Accident Attorney

Treating car accident injuries can be a financial burden in the long run. However, dealing with the insurance claims or other legal process to secure your deserved compensation can be challenging.

This is why consulting with a car accident attorney is important. They can help you understand your rights, navigate the claims process, and  negotiate a fair settlement.

Hiring a Car Accident Lawyer for Your Whiplash Case

If you’re dealing with the long-term effects of whiplash, you’ll need expert legal representation. A skilled car accident lawyer will work to ensure you receive fair compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

These legal professionals have the expertise to negotiate with insurance companies and, if necessary, take the case to court to secure a just settlement.

Choose Jones Law Group for Your Whiplash Injury Attorneys

Jones Law Group specializes in personal injury cases, including those resulting from car accidents and whiplash injuries. Our team of experienced attorneys is dedicated to fighting for car accident victims and helping them obtain the compensation they deserve. 

Don’t hesitate to schedule a free case review. You can do so by using our online form or calling 727-571-1333.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How is whiplash diagnosed?

A doctor will perform a detailed exam to confirm you have whiplash. The medical professional will check your medical history and likely order an MRI scan or X-ray to check the extent of neck damage.

Can whiplash symptoms appear days after an accident?

Yes, whiplash symptoms may not always appear immediately after an accident. It is not uncommon for symptoms to appear hours or even days later. That’s why seeing a doctor as soon as possible after a car wreck is so important, even if you seem fine. If you don’t get medical help, your symptoms could worsen significantly.

How long does it usually take to recover from whiplash?

The recovery time for whiplash varies from person to person and depends on the severity of the injury.

While some individuals may experience relief within a few weeks with conservative treatments, others may require more extended rehabilitation periods. Early intervention and adherence to prescribed treatments can contribute to a smoother recovery process.

How long do I have to file a personal injury claim for my whiplash injuries?

The law has set out some deadlines within which you should file your case. In Florida, for example, you have two years from the date of the injury to file a personal injury claim. A personal injury lawyer can help you comply with the legal timelines in your State to avoid losing the right to pursue your claim.