Car Accident Injuries: Whiplash

Whiplash is a car accident injury resulting from the forceful, rapid back-and-forth movement of the neck, akin to the cracking of a whip. Commonly associated with rear-end car accidents, it represents the unforeseen repercussions of car accidents in Maryland.

It’s important to understand how whiplash injuries occur, their symptoms, treatment, and how you might be entitled to compensation. At the Law Office of Robert Castro, our personal injury lawyers in Charles County, MD have extensive experience representing individuals who’ve suffered whiplash from car accidents.

Whiplash Injury in a Car Accident

The physics of a car accident precipitates a series of rapid, forceful movements that have direct consequences on the human body. While a seat belt effectively restrains the torso, offering a crucial layer of protection, the head and neck are not afforded the same stability.

The abrupt deceleration or halt of the vehicle propels the head forward in a swift motion, only for it to be jerked back with equal force. This violent, whip-like action places an immense strain on the neck’s muscles and ligaments, stretching them beyond their normal range and potentially leading to tears in the tissue.

Symptoms of Whiplash Injuries

Whiplash symptoms might not be immediate, masking the severity of the injury initially. The latency period before symptoms manifest can span from a few hours to several days post-accident, complicating diagnosis. Recognizable symptoms of whiplash include:

• Persistent neck pain and stiffness, exacerbated by attempts to move the neck.
• A noticeable increase in pain during neck movement.
• Headaches, particularly originating at the skull’s base, indicative of neck tension.
• Experiences of dizziness and blurred vision, reflecting neurological impact.
• General fatigue, which may seem unrelated but is a common repercussion.
• A restricted range of motion in the neck, hindering daily activities.
• The emergence of tingling or numbness in the arms and hands, signaling nerve involvement.

The delayed onset of whiplash symptoms highlights the injury’s insidious nature. It’s crucial to monitor your condition carefully after any car accident in Waldorf. If you experience any of the mentioned symptoms, don’t dismiss them. Seek professional medical evaluation to determine if they stem from whiplash and to begin any necessary treatment.

How Long Does Whiplash Last?

The prognosis for whiplash varies significantly among individuals, influenced by the injury’s severity and the body’s innate healing capabilities. While some whiplash cases are classified as mild, allowing for recovery within a span of a few weeks to a few months, there exists a subset of patients who endure persistent pain and discomfort beyond the initial healing period. This chronic condition underscores the importance of prompt medical evaluation and intervention following a car accident.

Settlement for Whiplash Injuries

Maryland follows an “at-fault” system for car accidents. This means that the driver determined to be responsible for causing the accident is generally held financially liable for the resulting damages. If you’ve sustained a whiplash injury in a car accident caused by another driver, you may be entitled to compensation for various losses, including:

• Medical Expenses: This covers all costs associated with diagnosing and treating your whiplash injury. Expenses might include doctor visits, hospital stays, physical therapy, medications, and any necessary medical equipment.
• Lost Wages: If your whiplash injury forces you to miss work, you may be able to recover compensation for the income you would have earned during that time. This can also include lost earning potential if your injury prevents you from returning to your previous job duties.
• Pain and Suffering: Whiplash can cause significant physical discomfort and emotional distress. Compensation for pain and suffering acknowledges the impact the injury has had on your quality of life.

Although average settlements for car accident injuries like whiplash range from $15,000 to $25,000 – the total amount of compensation you might receive for a whiplash injury depends on several key factors, including the severity of your injuries, total medical expenses, and the impact of your whiplash injury on your life and work.

If you’re suffering from whiplash after a car accident, our Waldorf car accident lawyers will help you gather evidence, build your case, communicate with insurance companies, and fight for the maximum possible compensation. Contact us today for a free consultation and let us put our experience to work for you.