Whiplash is one of the most common injuries resulting from car accidents on Long Island, especially rear-end collisions. Despite being so prevalent, it can often be misunderstood or overlooked, leading to delayed treatment or complications.
At The Saul Law Firm, we understand the impact whiplash can have on your life. Trust us to be your advocates and allies in securing the justice and compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation with an experienced whiplash injury lawyer.
What Is Whiplash?
Whiplash occurs when the neck is suddenly and forcefully jerked back and forth, often in the context of a car accident. This rapid motion causes the neck’s muscles, ligaments, and tendons to stretch beyond their normal range of motion, leading to strains or tears. While whiplash is often considered a mild injury, it can result in chronic pain and long-term disability if not treated promptly and correctly.
Causes of Whiplash
The most common cause of whiplash is a rear-end car collision. The impact causes your body to move forward while your head lags, creating a snapping motion. Other causes of whiplash may include:
- Sports accidents–Sudden, forceful impacts in contact sports, such as football or boxing, can cause whiplash.
- Physical assault–A forceful blow to the head or neck can result in whiplash.
- Falls–Slipping and falling can sometimes cause the neck to snap back, leading to a whiplash injury.
Symptoms of Whiplash
Symptoms of whiplash can vary depending on the severity of the injury, but they typically develop within 24 hours of the accident. Some people may experience symptoms for several days, weeks, or even longer. Common symptoms include:
- Neck pain and stiffness are the hallmark symptoms of whiplash, which sometimes extend to the shoulders, upper back, and arms. Pain may worsen with movement, and stiffness can make it difficult to turn your head.
- Headaches typically start at the base of the skull and radiate forward.
- Dizziness or feeling lightheaded is another common symptom.
- Fatigue and exhaustion are often reported after a whiplash injury.
In severe cases, individuals may experience cognitive or emotional symptoms, including difficulty concentrating, memory issues, and irritability.
Long-Term Effects of Whiplash
While many people recover from whiplash within a few weeks with appropriate treatment, others may experience long-term complications, mainly if the injury is severe or if treatment is delayed. Chronic neck pain, reduced mobility, and persistent headaches are long-term effects that can significantly impact your quality of life.
If you suffer long-term effects from whiplash, you may require ongoing physical therapy, pain management, or even surgical intervention in extreme cases.
Proving a Whiplash Injury Claim
To successfully recover compensation for a whiplash injury, you’ll need to prove that another party was at fault and that the injury directly resulted from the accident. This often involves:
- Police report–A police report can establish fault in a car accident and is essential evidence in your claim.
- Medical records–Documenting your whiplash diagnosis, treatment plan, and any ongoing symptoms helps prove the extent of your injury.
- Witness statements–If there were witnesses to the accident, their testimony could provide crucial support for your claim.
We will leverage our skills and resources to conduct a thorough investigation, prove your claim, and fight for the maximum compensation you deserve.
Why Choose The Saul Law Firm
At The Saul Law Firm, we understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll a whiplash injury can take. You can trust our attorneys to work diligently to help you obtain compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. We’ll handle all communications with insurance companies so you can focus on your recovery.
With extensive experience in personal injury cases, we build strong claims backed by thorough investigations and expert testimony when necessary. Our personalized approach ensures we understand the full impact of your injury so we can pursue the maximum compensation you deserve.
Contact Our Experienced Whiplash Injury Attorney Today
Whiplash injuries may seem inconsequential at first, but they can have life-altering consequences. Trust The Saul Law Firm to handle your claim professionally and diligently. Contact us today so we can start working on your claim.
The Saul Law Firm, LLP helps clients throughout Garden City, Nassau County, Suffolk County, Long Island, Queens, Garden City, Brooklyn, New York City, the Bronx, Staten Island, and Westchester County.