While drivers in Massachusetts do not expect to be involved in an automobile collision, the reality is that they face these risks every time they get behind the wheel of a vehicle. When an accident does occur, those involved should properly address any issues regarding their health. In some cases, a major or minor accident could result in few or no injuries, but accident victims should be certain to rule out any injuries that could present themselves following the accident.
Whiplash is a common injury in a car accident, but it may not result in immediate symptoms following the crash. In addition, an accident victim may consider this to be as a minor injury, which, in turn, may cause them to not seek immediate medical attention. While it is commonly a non-life-threatening injury, failure to address this injury could result in it becoming more problematic.
What is whiplash? This is a neck injury that occurs when there is a rapid and unrestrained forward and backward movement of the head. This type of injury is commonly sustained in a car accident and often occurs in a rear-end collision. This type of injury impacts the head, neck and spine and can result in long-term pain if not treated timely and properly.
A whiplash injury often results in a temporary disability due to the victim’s inability to move his or her neck normally. A victim may have to use sick leave because he or she is unable to function normally at work, thus causing a loss of productivity. This could result in additional losses and damages, such as a loss of income, in addition to the injury suffered.
If an individual suffers whiplash in a car accident, it is important to address the cause of the collision and who is responsible for the resulting damages. If another driver is at fault, the injured party can file a cause of action, such as a personal injury claim. This could help the injury victim recover compensation to cover expenses such as medical bills, rehabilitation, lost wages, damages and pain and suffering.
Source: MedicineNet.com, “Whiplash,” accessed Feb. 23, 2015
