Rear-end crashes are some of the most common types of motor vehicle crashes, especially in Indianapolis traffic jams. Distracted drivers, speeding, and following too closely for conditions are common causes of rear-end accidents. Whatever the underlying reason for the crash may be, the results are often the same. The occupants of the vehicle in front suffer a variety of injuries, including a whiplash injury.

What is Whiplash?

Whiplash from car accidents is a common injury and is especially associated with rear-end car accidents. However, neck injuries, including whiplash, can also be caused by falls, sports and recreational activities, intentional assaults, and, repetitive stress injuries.

Whiplash is caused when the head is violently jerked in a back and forth motion causing damage to the soft tissues, ligaments, and tendons in the neck. Because insurance companies have come to view “whiplash” as an exaggerated or fake injury, many attorneys use the technical terms to describe the neck injuries caused by a rear-end crash. Therefore, you may hear terms such as myofascial injury, cervical sprain, neck strain, or hyperextension or hyperflexion injury. These technical terms are all related to whiplash-type injuries.

Why Does a Rear-End Crash Cause Whiplash?

In a rear-end collision, the force of the impact from the rear vehicle causes the seat of the occupant in the front car to propel forward suddenly. The person’s torso is also suddenly propelled forward. However, the person’s head jerks backward, usually hitting the headrest of the seat. The person’s head is then flung forward, but the seatbelt restrains the torso. Therefore, the result is a “whipping” motion which causes the damage to the neck.

What are the Symptoms of Whiplash?

The symptoms of whiplash vary from person to person. It is important to understand that even a low-impact car crash can cause whiplash. In addition, you should know that symptoms of whiplash may not be noticeable for hours or days following an accident. It is extremely important to be checked by a physician after a car accident, regardless of how you may feel immediately following the crash.

If you begin to experience any of the symptoms of whiplash, you need to seek medical treatment. Symptoms may include:

• Stiffness and pain in the neck, shoulders, arms, and/or upper back
• Headaches, which may be chronic
• Pain worsens with movement
• Loss of range of motion in the neck
• Numbness or tingling in the arms
• Dizziness
• Blurred vision
• Fatigue
• Memory problems or difficulty concentrating
• Ringing in the ears
• Sleep disturbances
• Depression or irritability

A medical professional can diagnose whiplash and prescribe a treatment plan. Many cases of whiplash heal with time and rest. However, some cases of whiplash may cause long-term pain and impaired motion. In some cases, whiplash could result in a permanent impairment.

Consult with an Indianapolis Whiplash Injury Lawyer Today

Whiplash from car accidents are not “minor” car accident injuries. Do not allow a doctor to convince you that your pain and suffering is “in your mind.” Seek a second opinion if you are suffering pain or other whiplash symptoms that your doctor is not taking seriously.

Likewise, do not allow an insurance adjuster to convince you that you do not have a valid injury claim. Whiplash hurts, and it can cause long-term conditions that may prevent you from working or performing daily tasks. Therefore, you deserve compensation for whiplash from car accident injuries just as you do for any other injury caused by a negligent driver.

Call Poynter & Bucheri 1-800-265-9881 or (317) 780-8000 to request your free consultation with an Indianapolis whiplash injury lawyer.