Understanding Whiplash Injuries

Whiplash is one of the most commonly reported car accident injuries. It’s caused by abrupt—and forceful—back-and-forth movement of the neck, resulting in stretched or torn tendons and ligaments. Unfortunately, it’s also one of the most misunderstood health conditions.

Unlike crash injuries such as broken bones, which can be confirmed with an X-ray, soft tissue injuries like whiplash can more difficult to diagnose and even harder to prove.

While some whiplash injuries are relatively minor and resolve on their own, others can cause severe pain, reduced range of movement, numbness, tingling, and myriad of other symptoms. These issues frequently make it nearly impossible for a person to complete daily tasks or perform work-related duties.

If you sustained a serious whiplash injury in a Georgia car accident caused by someone else’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation. However, seeking damages for whiplash injuries can be an uphill battle. Here’s what you can do to improve the chances of success:

• Seek immediate medical attention. After an accident, it’s important to see a doctor right away, even if you don’t feel severely injured. Symptoms associated with whiplash and other soft tissue injuries can take up to a week to appear, but a doctor who knows the details of your accident may be able to spot early signs of such injuries and document them in your medical records.
• Document medical expenses and other economic losses. Serious whiplash injuries sometimes require extensive medical treatment. It’s important to save all medical bills and receipts, and document other financial losses like lost wages, mileage, and rehabilitation costs.
• Consult an attorney as soon as possible. Experienced personal injury attorneys know just how debilitating a severe whiplash injury can be. An attorney can help you build a strong case and seek compensation for medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and other damages.

If you’ve suffered a serious whiplash injury in a Georgia car accident, the knowledgeable attorneys with Van Sant Law can help you understand your rights, explore your legal options, and fight for the compensation you deserve. Contact us today to schedule an appointment for a free initial consultation.