Whiplash is one of the most common accident injuries. When a forceful impact thrusts the head rapidly backward and then forward, the motion is often enough to strain the neck’s muscles, tendons, and ligaments. Especially powerful impacts can also damage the vertebrae or the discs. Whiplash may seem like a relatively minor injury, but accident attorneys have seen firsthand how it can affect virtually every aspect of life. If you think you have whiplash, here’s what you should know about recovering compensation for any resulting losses. 

What You Need to Know About Whiplash

What are the symptoms of whiplash?

Whiplash usually manifests symptoms within 24 hours of the impact. Neck pain and stiffness are the most common symptoms. Other signs of whiplash include headaches that start at the base of the skull, shoulder pain and tenderness, fatigue, dizziness, and tingling or numbness in the arms. 

How is whiplash treated?

The primary goals of whiplash treatment are to relieve pain, restore the neck’s normal range of motion, and facilitate the body’s natural healing process. Effective approaches include resting during the first 24 hours, applying heat or ice to the affected area, and taking over-the-counter pain relievers. More severe cases of whiplash may call for prescription pain medication, muscle relaxants, or lidocaine injections. 

What are some common causes of whiplash?

Car accidents, especially rear-end collisions, are responsible for many cases of whiplash. Contact sports like football are another common cause of this soft tissue injury. Additionally, physical assault can also result in whiplash if it involves a powerful blow to the head. 

How can I recover compensation for the costs associated with treating my whiplash?

If you sustained whiplash due to someone else’s negligence, you may be able to recover compensation for all resulting damages. To secure a payout, you will have to prove both liability and losses. A seasoned accident attorney can help you gather evidence of both, which might include eyewitness testimony, police reports, surveillance or dash cam footage, medical records, and statements from soft tissue injury specialists. 

If you sustained whiplash in a collision with a reckless or negligent driver, contact an accident attorney at Egan & Richgels, S.C. to see if you have grounds for a personal injury suit. Since 1978, this firm has been providing strategic legal counsel for clients throughout western Wisconsin and southeast Minnesota. Based in La Crosse, WI, they know how to resolve even the most complicated claims. They represent victims of medical malpractice, construction accidents, auto collisions, and nursing home negligence. To schedule a free case evaluation with an accident attorney on their team, call (608) 784-0087 or visit their website.