When a car crash occurs, the passengers and driver may experience jerky movements. This can cause an individual’s neck to move in ways that result in a whiplash injury. Even the slightest fender-bender can cause harm. Besides the initial discomfort, whiplash can cause long-term complications. If you believe that you have suffered a Van Nuys whiplash injury, it is essential to work with a trusted attorney who can help you receive the compensation that you deserve.
What is Whiplash?
The condition of whiplash describes harm to the soft tissues of the neck. It may affect muscles, tendons, or ligaments in this area. It often occurs as a person’s head is jolted back and forth during a car collision. An individual may experience immediate pain, or the effects may be felt days after the auto accident. This is why it is essential to seek medical attention following a crash.
Common Consequences and Lasting Effects of a Van Nuys Whiplash Injury
Injuries from whiplash often last a short period of time. However, they can affect a person’s life for years. Everything depends on the physical condition of the individual and the severity of the accident. It is important to understand that even a minor event can cause a major injury. Since the neck is associated with the spine, numerous symptoms and effects may be felt throughout the entire body. Here are some common consequences of whiplash:
- Neck Pain: Pain may be central to the neck or radiate down the arms and shoulders. A person may experience stiffness or decreased mobility in his or her neck.
- Headache: When muscles become tight in the neck, the spine may be irritated. This may result in headaches.
- Numbness: If nerves in the spine become inflamed, it is not unusual for a person to feel a numbness in his or her arms or hands.
Here are some long-term effects of a whiplash injury:
- Low Back Pain: Although whiplash is commonly associated with the neck, a person may be left with low back pain. During a whiplash injury, the lower back is often compressed. This can lead to long-term pain.
- TMJ: Temporomandibular joint dysfunction affects the jaw. It can start as pain or popping in this part of the face. If the condition is not treated, it can cause facial discomfort, ear pain, or chewing difficulties.
- Brain Injury: If the brain is jolted during an accident, it may become bruised or begin to bleed. In severe accidents, a person may experience a concussion or lose consciousness. Following a whiplash injury that affects the brain, an individual may suffer confusion, sleeping problems, depression, irritability, or other emotional disturbances.
With proper medical treatment, most whiplash cases heal in short periods of time. However, some people may experience symptoms indefinitely.
Why You Need a Lawyer to Deal with Your Van Nuys Whiplash Injury
When you are in an auto accident, you may need time to recover from your injuries. You may be faced with expensive medical bills and loss of income. To shoulder your burdens, it is best to work with a trusted whiplash attorney. Our team is trained to deal with insurance companies so that you receive adequate compensation. We understand how to prove negligence from another party and to assemble a solid personal injury claim.
How and When to Contact an Auto Accident Attorney
If you have been in a car crash, it is vital to seek medical attention immediately. Since whiplash symptoms may not be evident at the time of the accident, you may still suffer effects into the future. A physician will look for signs of problems and document all injuries. If you have been informed that you have suffered whiplash, it is essential to contact a lawyer and begin filing a claim. If the insurance company does not pay, it is wise to pursue a personal injury lawsuit.
Since whiplash injuries are quite common, the lawyers at our firm have experience with these types of cases. We will help you through the legal procedures and fight for your best interests. We comprehend the lasting effects of whiplash injuries. We will do our best to bring you justice. For more information, call our office today.
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If you or a loved one has been injured, you will want a top rated San Fernando Valley personal injury attorney that understands how to get the maximum compensation you deserve. Our pledge is to be your partner, and provide passionate, yet skillful legal representation needed to win your case. Contact our highly trained personal injury lawyers today for a free case evaluation.