Car accidents usually occur when you least expect them, and even in minor ones, you can sustain injuries. Whiplash commonly results from rear-end collisions but can happen in all crash types. These are facts you must know about this injury and what you can do to recover damages.
What Is Whiplash?
Whiplash and neck injuries, in general, rank among the most common from motor vehicle accidents in Las Vegas. They develop when a person’s head whips forward and back upon impact, while their body remains in place. Sometimes, whiplash isn’t immediately apparent after an accident, and symptoms appear within a few days. This often causes a person to forgo medical attention until they begin feeling sore.
Neck pain after car accidents, limited range of motion, stiffness and tenderness in the shoulder or upper back are common symptoms. You may also experience dizziness, headaches, numbness or tingling in the arms, blurred vision, sleep issues and tinnitus. Most instances of car accident-related whiplash are mild to moderate. However, in more serious cases, you might have memory problems, difficulty focusing and even depression.
If you are involved in an accident, you might wonder how long whiplash last. Usually, symptoms begin to clear within a few weeks, but each person is unique. Most can recover by resting, avoiding anything strenuous and alternating between ice and heat packs.
When Medical Care Is Necessary
Whiplash often resolves itself after two to four weeks, but some cases are worse than others. A common symptom is auto accident back pain. However, if you experience more serious symptoms such as loss of consciousness, memory loss, worsening pain or loss of function, it’s best to go to your nearest emergency room. Waiting can only exacerbate your condition.
As a general rule, you should always seek medical attention after a car accident. Even if you don’t immediately feel hurt, you can experience whiplash injury symptoms hours or even days later. Seeing a doctor can rule out more serious issues, such as fractures or internal bleeding. You can receive whiplash treatment, and receiving a diagnosis can also help if you plan to file a personal injury claim against the at-fault driver.
Why You Should Never Ignore Whiplash Treatment?
Even with a mild form of whiplash, you should never ignore treatment. Your condition can worsen, and you can be left with long-term complications. These can include chronic pain, migraines and cognitive issues. All of these symptoms can make it difficult to carry out your normal daily activities and decrease your quality of life.
The sooner you seek treatment and stick to the plan recommended by your doctor, the sooner you’ll be on the road to recovery. Keep any follow-up medical appointments and take recommended medications. Speak to the doctor about any worsening issues so they can adjust your treatment.
See a Car Accident Lawyer
If you suffer whiplash after a car accident in Las Vegas, you have legal considerations. Nevada follows a fault-based system, so a Las Vegas neck injury attorney can help you file a claim against the other driver. If the accident was that person’s fault, you should gather as much evidence as possible ahead of your consultation. This should include photos of the accident scene, witness contact information and statements, the other driver’s information, your medical records and the police accident report.
Your attorney will review all of the evidence in your case and determine the best way to proceed. They will handle all red tape and communications with the other driver’s insurance company. If necessary, they can use an investigative team to recreate the accident to determine how it happened.
Car accidents are stressful, especially when you’ve suffered injuries. Contact a skilled whiplash and neck injury attorney at your earliest convenience.