Whiplash Injuries Can Have Long Term Implications

 Posted on April 05, 2018 in Car Accidents

Every year an average of 3 million Americans suffer whiplash injuries. Whiplash injuries can occur in any number of activities, but often occur in motor vehicle collisions. Whiplash injuries are some of the most common injuries in the aftermath of car accidents and can occur when a vehicle is moving as slowly as 12 miles per hour.

According to the Mayo Clinic, a whiplash injury is defined as a rapid back and forth jerking movement of the neck. The vast majority of car related whiplash injuries occur during rear-end collisions. Unlike most injuries, the concern regarding whiplash injuries is not during the initial contact, but rather the long-term effects. Over 50 percent of whiplash victims suffer long-term chronic pain. That said, if you or a member of your family are involved in even a minor vehicular collision, contact our experienced team of Waukegan personal injury attorneys to get the help you need.

Whiplash Trends

While many Americans assume that whiplash injuries only cause minor inconveniences, that assumption could not be further from the truth. As many as 75 percent of whiplash victims suffer painful symptoms lasting upwards of six months. Even more concerning, roughly half of all whiplash injuries require victims to make doctor visits related to the injury for a 20 year period after the injury. Whiplash victims with pre-existing conditions such as chronic joint pain or arthritis are more likely to suffer long-term symptoms of whiplash. Moreover, after suffering a whiplash injury, victims are more likely to face chronic shoulder, neck, and spinal pain down the road.

Receiving Medical Treatment 

Even in the most minor car accidents, whiplash injuries can require serious medical attention. What makes identifying whiplash injuries difficult is the fact that whiplash symptoms can be delayed for months after an initial collision. Often times, whiplash injuries require regular chiropractic treatment as well as rigorous physical therapy regimens. These treatments can cost victims of whiplash thousands of dollars. Additionally, the average whiplash injury results in an average of two months of missed work time. Even after returning to work, those recovering from whiplash injuries can suffer from neck stiffness and pain, as well as general nausea. 

Speak with a Lake County Car Accident Lawyer  

Even after the most minor of collisions, it is wise to get medical attention and contact a personal injury attorney. Many minor injuries, such as whiplash, can cause major problems down the road. If you or a loved one are involved in an automobile accident, contact our knowledgeable team of Waukegan personal injury attorneys today.

Sources: 

https://chirocareflorida.com/whiplash-statistics

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/whiplash/symptoms-causes/syc-20378921