Whiplash is a common injury sustained in a car accident, with consequences that can be underestimated. At Park Chenaur Injury Lawyers, we understand that if you’ve experienced whiplash, you may face prolonged pain and discomfort.
Whiplash: What Is It?
Whiplash occurs when the neck is suddenly jolted forward and backward in the rapid, forceful motions of a vehicle accident. This violent motion affects the soft tissues of the neck, including muscles, ligaments, and tendons. Whiplash may be dismissed as a minor injury, but the side effects can be horrendous. If left untreated, it can lead to chronic pain, limited mobility, and long-term complications, including the following:
- Persistent neck pain and stiffness
- Shoulder pain and back pain
- Headaches, dizziness, and blurred vision
- Cognitive issues, including memory and concentration problems
- Nerve damage
- Herniated discs
The symptoms of whiplash may appear immediately after a collision, but as the days pass, the painful symptoms arise. It is vital to seek a medical assessment after any car accident and inform your medical provider that you were involved in a vehicle accident so that fact is documented in your medical record. Delaying treatment for whiplash can make your condition worse.
The earlier your injury is diagnosed, the sooner you can begin treatment and prevent the condition from worsening. Waiting to seek medical attention could affect your claim. Insurance companies often argue that delayed treatment proves your injuries were not severe or had another cause. By seeking medical help at once, you are more likely to achieve a favorable case outcome in a claim or lawsuit.
At the Scene of the Accident: What to Do
If you believe you’ve suffered whiplash but are still able to function at the accident scene, here are some steps you should take to protect yourself and strengthen your case:
- Document the scene: Take photos of the vehicles, the accident site, and any visible injuries.
- Exchange information: Collect the names, insurance information, and contact details of all parties involved, including witnesses.
- File a police report: Even if the accident seems minor, having an official police report will be important for your claim. The officer should be called to your location to make a record of the incident, so the details are recorded properly.
- Avoid speculation: Do not admit fault or discuss the facts of the accident with others present at the scene.
Get Well Soon, We’ll Handle the Rest
At Park Chenaur Injury Lawyers, we’re more than just lawyers—we are advocates for your well-being. With over 25 years of experience in personal injury law, our team is committed to ensuring you receive maximum compensation with minimum hassle. We understand the complexities of whiplash cases and know how to navigate the tactics insurance companies will use to downplay your injuries. We take a team-based approach that allows us to harness the full strength of our diverse, experienced staff. We’ll handle the legal details so you can focus on getting well. Give our whiplash injury attorneys in Tacoma a call to speak with us in a private, no-cost consultation.
