Whiplash

Experienced Motor Vehicle Accident Lawyers Committed to Securing Fair Compensation on Behalf of Georgia Accident Victims

Whiplash is a common type of car accident injury, especially following a rear-end collision. Whiplash occurs when the neck is suddenly jerked back and forth, causing damage to the muscles, ligaments, and tendons in the neck. Although whiplash isn’t always as serious or visible as other types of injuries, it can cause significant pain and discomfort in the days or even weeks following the incident. In some situations, a case of whiplash may not heal on its own. At Suthers & Harper, our experienced Savannah car accident attorneys are here to help victims of whiplash and other injuries secure the compensation they deserve. We have decades of experience recovering meaningful compensation on behalf of accident victims and are immediately available to discuss your case today. 

What Is Whiplash?

Whiplash is a neck injury caused by rapid back-and-forth movement, similar to the cracking of a whip, which is where the name comes from. The sudden movement can strain or tear the muscles, ligaments, and soft tissues in the neck, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. While whiplash is most commonly associated with rear-end car accidents, it can also occur in sports injuries, falls, or other traumatic events.

Whiplash is often considered a soft tissue injury, meaning it affects the muscles and ligaments rather than the bones. Despite being a soft tissue injury, whiplash can still cause severe discomfort and long-term complications if left untreated. Many people assume that whiplash is a minor injury, but for some victims, the pain and physical limitations caused by a whiplash diagnosis can be debilitating.

Symptoms of Whiplash

The symptoms of whiplash can vary from person to person, depending on the severity of the injury. While some people may experience symptoms right away, others may not notice pain or stiffness until several hours or even days after the accident. Common symptoms of whiplash include:

Neck pain and stiffness: This is the most common symptom of whiplash. The pain may worsen with movement or when you try to turn your head.

Reduced range of motion: You may find it difficult to move your neck fully or turn your head to the side without pain.

Headaches: Many whiplash victims experience headaches, particularly at the base of the skull.

Shoulder, upper back, or arm pain: The pain from whiplash can radiate into other parts of the body, including the shoulders, upper back, and arms.

Tingling or numbness: Some individuals may feel tingling or numbness in their arms or hands, indicating potential nerve involvement.

Fatigue or dizziness: Whiplash can also cause general fatigue or a feeling of dizziness.

Cognitive symptoms: In more severe cases, whiplash can lead to difficulty concentrating, memory problems, or irritability.

If you experience any of these symptoms after an accident, it’s essential to seek medical attention as soon as possible. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent the injury from worsening and reduce the risk of long-term complications.

How Long Does It Take Whiplash to Heal?

The healing time for whiplash varies depending on the severity of the injury and the individual’s overall health. In mild cases, whiplash symptoms may resolve within a few days or weeks with proper rest, ice, and physical therapy. However, more severe cases of whiplash can take months to heal, and some individuals may experience chronic pain or stiffness that lasts for years.

Treatment for whiplash typically includes rest, pain management, physical therapy, and exercises to improve strength and flexibility in the neck. Your doctor may also recommend medications, such as anti-inflammatory drugs or muscle relaxants, to help manage pain and inflammation.

It’s important to follow your doctor’s treatment plan carefully and avoid activities that could aggravate your injury. Attempting to return to your normal routine too quickly can prolong the healing process and potentially lead to further complications.

If you’ve been diagnosed with whiplash after an accident, a Savannah car accident lawyer at Suthers & Harper can help you seek compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages related to your injury.

Can You Sue Another Driver if You Suffered Whiplash in an Accident?

Yes, you can sue another driver if you suffered whiplash in a car accident caused by their negligence. In Georgia, drivers have a legal obligation to operate their vehicles safely and follow traffic laws. If another driver’s careless actions, such as speeding, distracted driving, or failing to yield, caused the accident that resulted in your whiplash, you may be entitled to compensation.

Filing a personal injury claim for whiplash involves proving that the other driver was at fault for the accident and that your injury is a direct result of the collision. This is where having an experienced Savannah car accident attorney can make a significant difference. Your attorney will gather evidence, such as accident reports, medical records, and witness statements, to build a strong case on your behalf.

In a whiplash injury claim, you may be able to recover compensation for:

Medical expenses: This includes the cost of doctor visits, diagnostic tests, physical therapy, and any medications or treatments related to your whiplash.

Lost wages: If your whiplash prevents you from working, you may be entitled to compensation for the income you’ve lost during your recovery.

Pain and suffering: In addition to financial losses, you can seek compensation for the physical pain and emotional distress caused by the injury.

It’s important to act quickly after an accident, as Georgia law imposes a statute of limitations on personal injury claims. If you wait too long to file your claim, you could lose your right to pursue compensation.

Speak with a Dedicated Savannah Car Accident Lawyer About Your Injuries Today

If you’ve suffered from whiplash in a car accident, don’t wait to seek legal help. The team at Suthers & Harper is here to support you through the recovery process and fight for the compensation you deserve for what you’ve been through. Our experienced Savannah car accident attorneys understand the challenges you are facing and are committed to helping you overcome your injuries. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation, and let us help you move forward with your case. You can reach us by calling 800-320-2384 or by filling out our secure online contact form. Calling is free, and we will not bill you for our services unless we can recover compensation on your behalf.