Posted on Tuesday, February 4th, 2020 at 5:11 pm
Whiplash is a common soft tissue injury that occurs as a result of motor vehicle accidents. However, whiplash is also a common injury in premises liability cases (slip and fall accidents), sporting injuries, recreational activity accidents, workplace accidents, and physical assaults. Many cases of whiplash heal within a few weeks, but some whiplash victims experience long-term or chronic whiplash symptoms and complications.
Seeking medical treatment from an experienced physician and legal advice from a trusted Sacramento whiplash attorney can help protect your health and legal rights after sustaining a whiplash injury.
Common Whiplash Injury Signs and Symptoms
Whiplash injuries occur when your head is thrown suddenly in a backward-forward motion. The sudden motion extends the neck, causing the soft tissues to extend and potentially tear. The result can vary from minor pain to severe headaches and limited range of motions.
Five of the most common symptoms of whiplash injury include:
- Neck Pain and/or Stiffness
- Loss of Range of Motion
- Headaches
- Dizziness
- Shoulder, arm, and/or upper back pain and tenderness
If you experienced any of the above symptoms, it is a wise choice to see a doctor so that the doctor can confirm whiplash and evaluate the extent of the injury. Minor whiplash injuries may be treated at home with rest and time. Most severe whiplash injuries might require substantial medical treatment. Chronic or traumatic cases of whiplash might require braces, physical therapy, injections, or surgery. A medical provider is trained to evaluable, diagnose, and propose the correct treatment plan for whiplash.
Brain Injuries Associated with Whiplash
When the head is thrown backward and forward, neck injuries are common. However, brain injuries may also occur. A closed head injury occurs when the brain moves around within the skull because of a sudden motion. The soft brain tissue strikes the bony portions of the skull causing brain damage. The severity of the brain damage depends on the location of the damage and the level of damage.
Some symptoms after whiplash that could indicate a closed brain injury or traumatic brain injury include, but are not limited to:
- Blurred vision
- Loss of consciousness
- Fatigue
- Ringing in the ear
- Depression
- Sleep disturbances
- Lack of concentration
- Memory problems
- Mood swings and irritability
- Nausea and/or vomiting
- Slurred speech
- Lack of coordination
If a person experiences any symptoms that could also be associated with a brain injury or other injuries after a whiplash injury should see immediate medical attention. Also, victims whose symptoms persist or continue to worsen after a whiplash injury should see a doctor as soon as possible. Prompt medical attention can help prevent the development of serious complications and worsening conditions.
Whiplash Can Result in Long-Term Conditions
A whiplash injury can result in long-term impairments and disabilities. Some victims are unable to return to normal daily activities of living or return to a normal work schedule. The damages in a whiplash can be substantial. For that reason, you need an experienced Sacramento whiplash attorney to investigate your case, identify the cause of the whiplash, name the responsible parties, and seek full compensation of all damages.
Contact our Sacramento Whiplash Attorneys for Help
If you suffer from whiplash, let us help. Contact The Tiemann Law Firm by calling (916) 999-9000 or by visiting our website to request your free consultation to discuss your accident and injury claim with a Sacramento whiplash attorney.
