1. What is whiplash?
Whiplash refers to an injury a person can sustain to the neck, head and shoulders after being subjected to a snapping motion, either forward and backward or side to side. Often, these neck injuries are caused by traffic accidents, particularly rear-end collisions.
2. What are the symptoms of whiplash?
The first symptom of whiplash is soreness and pain in the neck area.
3. If whiplash is generally an injury to the soft tissues, why did my doctor order X-rays?
Doctors take X-rays to rule out more serious spinal injuries. Whiplash injuries are not usually seen on an X-ray.
4. What if the X-ray results are negative? Are there other tests that can be performed that will show other injuries to my spine?
Yes. Tests such as an MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) or a CT scan (CAT scan) can give doctors more information.
5. How long will whiplash and other neck injury symptoms last?
Symptoms such as pain, numbness or tingling that radiates to the arm or other parts of the body may indicate a more serious injury than a simple sprain or strain. With minor injuries, symptoms may subside within two to four weeks. If your symptoms continue, or if you feel your injury is significant, consult a doctor.
6. I was in a car accident this morning, but I feel fine. Can I assume I don’t have whiplash?
No. In the aftermath of an accident, whiplash injury victims are often unaware of their injuries. Victims may experience only slight discomfort and/or stiffness in the neck. Whiplash often doesn’t become apparent until 12 to 24 hours after the accident.
7. What can I do to prevent whiplash and other neck injuries?
Although whiplash is not completely avoidable, checking your car’s head restraint is a good precautionary measure. The head restraints should be directly behind and very close to the back of your head. Some vehicles have very low headrests that could make you susceptible to this type of injury.
8. What if I have more questions?
Contact Scott C. Gottlieb & Associates, LLP, today to discuss your neck injury case. Put our years of legal experience to work for you. Contact our attorneys for a free consultation about your claim. It’s easy. Just fill out our online contact form or call us now at (315) 314-5390 or (877) 713-8573. We take calls 24 hours a day. Remember, you owe no legal fee unless we win your case.
