The Long-Term Effects of Untreated Whiplash

Whiplash injuries can occur in a wide variety of ways. In fact, whiplash is one of the most common injuries that a person can sustain as a result of being involved in a car accident. However, there are many other ways that a person can sustain a whiplash injury. Often, people are quick to write off whiplash as something that is not very serious. However, the reality is that whiplash, if left untreated, can lead to significant long-term effects on the victim. Here, we want to discuss the long-term effects of untreated whiplash so that you gain an understanding of the importance of seeking medical care in these situations.

Whiplash Happens Fast, but has a Lasting Impact

Most people think of whiplash occurring in car accidents. The reality is that this is where most whiplash injuries come from. However, accident victims often do not realize that they have even sustained a whiplash injury in the immediate aftermath of a collision. It is not uncommon for the adrenaline and confusion after an accident to cover up the signs and symptoms of whiplash.

Whiplash injuries are caused by the sudden deceleration of the body as a result of a collision or some other type of impact. This can cause the head and upper body to rapidly jerk forward and backward, causing the muscles, tendons, and ligaments in the neck, shoulders, and upper back to stretch or and strain.

In general, most people who sustain whiplash are prescribed very mild pain relievers and told by their doctors to resist any major physical activity for a few weeks. However, more severe cases of whiplash could require prescription-strength pain relievers or muscle relaxers to help reduce the pain and muscle spasms. In some cases, a doctor may even prescribe physical therapy to help a whiplash injury victim recover.

Unfortunately, there are times when individuals suffer from the long-term effects of whiplash. As we go through the list of long term effects mentioned here, we want you to understand that these can last for months or even years and cause significant pain and suffering for accident victims:

• Pain and/or stiffness in the neck, shoulders, upper back, or lower back
• Severe headaches
• Numbness, weakness, stiffness, or pain in the arms and legs
• Reduced range of motion throughout the body
• Jaw pain
• Blurred vision
• Dizziness
• Difficulty sleeping and fatigue
• Difficulty with memory or focus
• Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
• Stomach aches
• Irritability and/or anxiety

Is Compensation Available in These Cases?

Whiplash victims may be entitled to various types of compensation. If the whiplash injuries were caused by the careless or negligent actions of another individual, such as another driver on the roadway, they may be able to recover compensation through the at-fault driver’s insurance carrier. Some of the types of compensation in these cases could include the following:

• Coverage of any medical bills related to the whiplash injury
• Lost wages if a victim cannot work while they recover from their injuries
• Pain and suffering damages
• Loss of quality of life damages

The total amount of compensation available in these situations will vary depending on the factors related to each particular case. It is crucial to work with a skilled Kentucky personal injury attorney who can employ the assistance of trusted medical and economic experts to analyze the facts of the case.