If you have been in a car accident, you understand that this event can impact multiple areas of your life. You may find yourself struggling with physical injuries, mental strain and emotional duress after this type of event. Some types of car accident injuries, such as whiplash, may not be immediately apparent, and you may find yourself dealing with symptoms and repercussions for days or weeks after the crash. In some cases, whiplash symptoms can last for months.
It is critical that you take your injury seriously, seeking the medical care and support you need for recovery. While this is a common injury, you do not want to underestimate the potential impact it could have on your life. It might be helpful for you to learn about the signs of a whiplash injury and what steps you may need to take after a car accident.
Symptoms of whiplash
Each person is different, and the way that you experience whiplash symptoms depends on details that are specific to your individual situation. For example, the speed that the vehicles were traveling at the time of the crash could affect the severity of your injury. It may not be immediately apparent that you suffered a serious injury in the crash. You could experience a gradual onset of symptoms in the days and weeks after the crash. These may include lingering headaches, stiffness in the neck, limited range of motion and more.
In more severe cases of whiplash, victims could experience symptoms that may include memory loss, difficulty concentrating, trouble sleeping, blurred vision, irritability, depression and more. A whiplash injury results from the damage sustained by the brain when the head and neck make a sudden and rapid whipping motion, which is common in the event of a collision. Symptoms can worsen over time, especially if you don’t receive proper medical treatment.
Recovery after a car accident
If your accident was the result of the reckless or negligent actions of another person or party, there may be legal options available to you. A civil claim can provide you with the opportunity to seek recovery and support after suffering from a whiplash injury. If you are unsure of what you can do to pick up the pieces and move forward after an accident, you may benefit from seeking a professional opinion regarding your legal options.