One of the most common types of injury following a car wreck is whiplash. Whiplash, which occurs most frequently following rear-end collisions, involves any type of impact or sudden force that immediately “whips” the head backward and then immediately forward. This sudden, unexpected force creates a chain reaction of tensing and tearing within the muscles that can result in short-term pain, chronic pain or both.
If you’ve experienced whiplash recently, seeking legal representation is a wise choice. Whether it’s an auto accident lawyer in St. George that you need or one in on the East Coast, hiring legal representation can bring you one step closer to getting the recourse that you need.
The Short-Term Effects of Whiplash
The symptoms of whiplash typically manifest within 24 hours following the initial injury. In addition to general neck pain, stiffness and headaches, many people report experiencing blurred vision, sleep disturbances and difficulty concentrating following a whiplash injury.
It doesn’t matter if you live in St. Paul or St. George—If you’ve experienced any of these symptoms following a whiplash incident, contact an auto accident lawyer as soon as possible. Whether it’s an auto accident lawyer in St. George or elsewhere that you need, doing so as soon as possible will reap the greatest benefits.
Long-Term and Chronic Symptoms of Whiplash
There are some initial symptoms that can be indicative of a future propensity for chronic pain following an incident of whiplash. Chronic pain due to whiplash is more likely for people who experience a rapid onset of pain in the neck, headaches or pain that travels to the arms following an accident. The quick backward-forward motion of whiplash can, in severe cases, injure the bones in the spine, disrupt the disks between the bones and cause trauma to the ligaments, muscles and nerves in the neck.
When to Contact a Medical Provider
You should see a doctor if you experience any type of pain—no matter how great or small the discomfort—following a whiplash injury. Severe incidents of whiplash can occasionally result in fractures or tissue damage, which can become critical health issues if left untreated.