When Whiplash Becomes a Serious and Debilitating Injury

Insurance companies and some doctors may downplay the potential seriousness of a whiplash injury, but the fact is, these injuries can have debilitating complications for some people. We take a look at when whiplash is more than just a minor annoyance.

Complications That Can Exacerbate a Whiplash Injury

Whiplash is a common complaint of occupants in a car that has been rear-ended but can occur as the result of a fall or workplace accident as well. A majority of sufferers will experience minimal neck pain and mild headaches and will fully recover within a month. However, for some people, symptoms will be much more severe and could result in long-term or permanent disability. Studies have found that people who experience the following are more likely to have ongoing issues caused by the whiplash injury:

Severe pain and stiffness immediately following the accident
Other symptoms, such as nausea, dizziness, or numbness in the arms or legs
Previous neck injuries
Advanced age or general poor health before the accident

People who fall into these categories may experience limited mobility, chronic pain, and migraine headaches that can last for many months or even be permanent.

Potential for Traumatic Brain Injury

Because whiplash forces the head back and forth rapidly, it can also shake up the brain inside the skull and cause a traumatic brain injury (TBI). If you have the following symptoms after a rear-end car crash or other accident, you should discuss the possibility of a TBI with your doctor:

Memory problems
Blurred vision
Inability to concentrate
Ringing in the ears

Unlike broken bones, the strains, sprains, and brain injury caused by whiplash do not show up on X-rays or MRI scans, so it is not easy to prove a claim for compensation for injuries resulting from whiplash.

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Have You Been Injured in Virginia Due to Negligence?

If you or a family member were involved in an accident that resulted in serious injuries, and another person's conduct caused the injuries, you need to speak with an experienced lawyer as soon as possible.

The passion of The Mottley Law Firm is to protect the legal rights of clients who have suffered life-disrupting personal injuries. No matter where you are in Virginia, we want to hear from you. Contact us online or call our Richmond office directly at (804) 409-0876 to schedule your free consultation.

Kevin W. Mottley [email protected]

Richmond, VA trial lawyer dedicated to handling brain injuries, car accidents and other serious injury claims

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