Whiplash is one of the most common injuries that automobile accident victims sustain. It can also result from slips and falls, sports injuries, physical abuse, and assaults. Whiplash is a neck injury that occurs due to sudden forward and backward movement of the head. The sudden movement is synonymous with the cracking of a whip, hence its name.
These injuries are usually characterized by neck pain, loss of motion, and stiffness. This type of injury is usually mild and may last for just a few days or within three months. They can also heal on their own. As a result, it’s one of the most commonly ignored injuries after a motor vehicle accident.
Unfortunately, however, untreated whiplashes can become worse and cause severe health complications for the victim. So, just how bad can an injury get? You’d find out in this article. If your whiplash was caused by someone else’s negligence, it’s important to speak with a qualified Ohio car accident lawyer ASAP.
Can Whiplash Be Life-threatening?
As stated earlier, many people think that whiplash injuries are mild and shouldn’t be taken seriously. That’s because many whiplash injuries don’t last long and can heal without medical attention. However, in many other cases, untreated whiplash degenerates into a more severe and complicated injury like Degenerated Disc Disease. So, it’s always best to seek medical attention immediately if you suspect a whiplash.
Generally, whiplash isn’t a life-threatening injury. However, it can become worse and cause life-long pain and partial disability. It all depends on the severity of the injury. The three types of whiplash based on the degree of injury are:
Type 1
Type 1 whiplash is the mildest form of this injury. Victims with type 1 will experience little or no pain at all. They may also experience delayed symptoms.
In many cases, they may also experience no spasm and retain their ability to move their necks without restraint. Type 1 whiplash victims can carry on their work activities properly and their injuries heal within a few days or weeks.
Type 2
Type 2 whiplash is a moderate form of this injury. It usually comes with instant neck pain accompanied by loss of neck motion. Many of the victims of type 2 whiplash show no physical signs of a pinched nerve. Moderate whiplash will usually heal in a few months and incompletely.
Type 3
Type 3 whiplash represents a severe or acute case, with severe pains, stiffness, and tenderness. It’s usually accompanied by neurological injury signs. In some cases, these victims have fractures and dislocations, which some health practitioners classify as grade 4.
Car accident victims with whiplash injuries may not experience symptoms on time, especially if it’s type 1. Also, shock from the accident can cause delayed pain and symptoms. So, it’s always best to seek medical care immediately after a car crash. That’s regardless of whether you feel pain or not.
What Treatment Options are Available for Whiplash?
Treatment plans for whiplash patients vary from victim to victim. Most times, it depends on the severity of the injury. Generally, whiplashes may require the following kinds of treatment:
Pain Management
This focuses on relieving the pain especially in patients with severe whiplash. The treatment plan may include over-the-counter pain relievers, prescription medications, lots of rest, muscle relaxants, ice, etc.
Physical Therapy
Treatment plans from a physical therapist can provide great relief for your whiplash. Your therapist will usually use motion exercises to relieve your neck pain and boost muscle strength.
Foam Collars
Where necessary, your doctor can suggest that you use foam collars for some relief.
Exercise
Your doctor may also prescribe certain exercises to help restore neck motion.
What to Do After a Whiplash Injury From a Car Accident
The first thing to do after a traffic crash is to dial 911 immediately. Dialing 911 will ensure that emergency responders get through to you as soon as possible. It’d notify law enforcement too, where necessary.
Right after making the call, ensure that you gather as much evidence as you can through pictures and video recordings. Next, call your attorneys. They’d help you get the best settlement for your injuries.
Contact Our Experienced Car Accident Attorneys Immediately
Have you sustained whiplash injuries from a traffic crash due to someone else’s negligence? Then you deserve fair compensation for your pain. Fortunately, our Ohio car accident lawyers can help you with the compensation process.
Our attorneys have successfully handled even the most complicated car accident claims and lawsuits in Ohio State. We’d ensure that you get your due compensation without hassles and in no time. Schedule an appointment with us immediately.
