Whiplash and Rear-End Collisions | Shapiro, Washburn & Sharp

As the number of commuters that take to the roads every day increases, so do the number of rear-end collisions. In fact, rear-end crashes are one of the most common types of accidents to occur. And one of the most common injuries that victims sustain in these types of accidents is whiplash. This is caused by the strong back-and-forth jerking of the neck upon impact when one vehicle slams into the other.

In fact, whiplash is so common that more than two millions people suffer from the injury each year. Many people are unaware of just how dangerous even a minor case of whiplash can be if left untreated. If the injury goes undiagnosed or ignored, victims can end up suffering from more dangerous – sometimes fatal – side effects.

Whiplash Basics

The headrest on the back of vehicle seats is not just there for the comfort of the vehicle occupant but also plays a significant role in helping to reduce whiplash risk. Studies from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration confirm that headrests not only reduce whiplash risk but also prevent hyperextension. Making sure that the headrest you are using is adjusted correctly to support your neck and head will help protect you in the event of a rear-end collision.

RELATED INJURIES

When it comes to whiplash injury, that rear-end crash does not have to involve high speeds. In fact, even if the vehicles are traveling at speeds as low as 10 mph, the impact is strong enough to cause a whiplash injury. Remember, although the force of the impact plays a significant role in the injury, the lack of protection around a victim’s head and neck is what allows the jerking movements which causes the strain.

Whiplash symptoms are similar to many car accident injuries symptoms in that it is not uncommon for the victim to experience a delay in symptoms or the symptoms they are experiencing is minimal. Whiplash symptoms can even take weeks before they show up. If a car accident victim experiences symptoms such as neck pain and stiffness, headaches at the base of their skull, or any numbness or tingling in their arms, they should seek medical attention immediately, as these are signs of a possible whiplash injury.

Contact an Experienced Personal Injury Attorney

If you suffered whiplash or any other type of car accident injury, contact an experienced personal injury attorney with our firm today to schedule a free, confidential case review.