All Ohio drivers are at risk for becoming involved in a car accident at some point during their lives. Even in crashes that do not appear to be serious, those who were involved may potentially suffer some physical effects. One of the most common injuries that is suffered is whiplash. This type of injury occurs when a collision results in a force that causes a person’s head to violently snap back and forth. This violent movement may cause soft tissue damage near or around the cervical vertebrae. Those involved in crashes may sprain the ligaments in their neck, injure the joints in their spine or strain the muscles and tendons in the cervical area.
Whiplash can produce a variety of symptoms. Depending on how severe the injury was, the injured person may have a headache, which may occur on just one side or on both sides. Some patients may potentially experience episodes where they become dizzy, they may become nauseated and suffer from vertigo. Additionally, they may complain about having difficulty when trying to concentrate or feel fatigued or irritable.
Unless the injury is severe and the person must be immobilized in order to increase their chances of recovery, most doctors will recommend that those suffering from whiplash do their best to remain active. If the pain is serious, heat and ice treatment may be utilized and spinal manipulation may help the person deal with the pain during recovery.
If a person suffers serious injuries in a car crash that was the result of another driver’s negligence, a personal injury attorney may consider bringing legal action. Damages that may be recoverable could include the cost of required medical care and treatment in addition to compensation for wages lost due to the victim’s absence from work.
Source: American Chiropractic Association, “Whiplash”, accessed on Jan. 24, 2015