How does whiplash happen in car or truck accidents?

Whiplash accidents typically occur as a result of rear-end collisions. The sudden impact of a vehicle hitting the back of a car can be extremely jarring. In addition, sports injuries are common causes of whiplash.

According to the Mayo Clinic, a forceful impact causes an individual’s neck to move rapidly back and forth. Hence, the name, analogous to cracking a whip.

However, someone with whiplash may not experience symptoms until a few days after the injury. In many cases, the injury victims can recover within a few weeks. Pain medication, an exercise plan, and orthopedic or chiropractic treatments often assist with their recovery. Nonetheless, not everyone recovers quickly. Some patients experience complications of longer duration or even chronic pain.

What are the symptoms of whiplash?

The most common whiplash symptoms that people experience are:

• Neck stiffness
• Neck pain
• Pain that worsens with neck movement
• Headaches
• Weariness
• Numbness or tingling in the arms
• Upper back, shoulders and arm pain
• Dizziness
• Blurred vision
• Ringing in the ears
• Trouble concentrating or remembering
• Insomnia
• Irritability
• Depression

With any whiplash injury, it is best to receive medical treatment as soon as possible. Treatment can alleviate the pain and also reduce the likelihood of further future complications.

Get legal help with whiplash accidents

When involved in a car accident where another party is a fault, you should seek legal help. Typically, the driver causing the rear-end collision is always at fault.

By hiring a skilled lawyer, you put experience on your side and can often achieve a better case outcome. At the Law Office of Michael R. De La Paz, we have represented clients in accident claims for several decades. We are very familiar with whiplash accidents and can protect your rights. Besides, if you have suffered injury through another party’s negligence, compensation can help you offset medical expenses and other losses.

Our firm represents clients throughout Texas including clients in McAllen, Brownsville, South Padre Island and other locations. Arrange a free consultation to discuss your case. We base our fees on contingency—meaning there are no fees unless we win or settle your case.