What Is Seattle “Whiplash” and What Should I Do If I Think I Have It?

By Pendergast Law on June 8, 2011

“Whiplash“is an injury to the neck that occurs when a person’s head is thrown forwards and backwards quickly. It commonly occurs in car accidents, due to the sudden force caused by hitting another vehicle or being hit by another vehicle. The sudden motion damages the soft tissues in the neck, leading to a wide range of possible symptoms.

Common symptoms of whiplash include neck pain and/or stiffness, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, unusual prickling or burning sensations, and shoulder or back pain. Some people also experienced mood changes, depression, memory loss, irritability, and fatigue. It’s also possible to have whiplash along with another injury, such as a traumatic brain injury or a spinal cord injury.

No two people experience whiplash in exactly the same way. Since it can take several days for the full extent of whiplash damage to appear, it is important to see a physician, chiropractor, or treatment provider if you suspect a whiplash injury might have occurred. A doctor can prescribe medications or treatments that will help you be more comfortable and heal more quickly.

Some whiplash injuries leave the injured person with permanent impairments like neck pain or headaches, especially if the initial injury was severe. If you or someone you love has suffered a whiplash injury or other severe injury in a car accident, the experienced Seattle car accident lawyers at Hardwick & Pendergast, P.S. can help you understand your legal rights and options. To learn more, call us today at 1-888-228-3860 for a free and confidential consultation.