Whiplash, also known as hyperextension of the neck or a neck strain, is a painful upper body injury. It occurs when the neck experiences a rapid, forceful extension, followed by an equally powerful flexion. Typically, this happens when the head whips backwards and then forwards again in two quick motions.
A whiplash injury causes the neck tissues to be stretched in an abnormal manner, and this can cause significant soft tissue damage to the area. With this damage also comes pain.
Causes of Whiplash
Undoubtedly, the main causes of whiplash injuries are automobile accidents. When a car is struck from behind, the unsuspecting passengers’ heads snap forward and then backwards again. However, even though rear-end collisions are common whiplash culprits, other types of impacts can also cause these injuries.
Aside from car wrecks, sports injuries, violent shaking, and assault are all possible causes of whiplash. As you can see, this injury often results from another’s negligence or malicious intent. If you have suffered whiplash, you may be able to take legal action against the responsible party.
Symptoms of Whiplash
Whiplash should be treated right away to avoid experiencing long-term symptoms and a prolonged recovery period. If you have been in an accident and feel the following symptoms, then you may have suffered whiplash:
- Headache
- Shoulder, neck and back pain
- Dizziness
- Compromised vision
- Stiff neck
- Difficulty sleeping
- Ringing in the ears
- Fatigue
Though whiplash is generally not considered to be life-threatening, it may cause its victims to experience headaches and neck stiffness for years following the injury.
Contact Us
If you have suffered whiplash as a result of an accident cause by a negligent party, then you may have the right to claim damages. Contact the New York City personal injury lawyers of Orlow, Orlow & Orlow, P.C. today to speak with an experienced attorney about your legal options.