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What Most People Don’t Understand About Whiplash Injuries

Whiplash is commonly referred to as an injury that results from soft tissue damage to the neck. Most people are familiar with the term “whiplash,” but many are unfamiliar with the true causes and seriousness of the medical condition. There are, in fact, multiple causes and symptoms of whiplash and many factors that can contribute to the severity of the trauma. There are also many misconceptions associated with this potentially serious condition.

What Causes Whiplash?

Whiplash is caused by a variety of injuries, all of which involve the neck being jerked or snapped. In many cases, this results from the person’s body being propelled by force in one direction, while their head remains in place. This is frequently exemplified in a rear-end vehicle collision scenario. The severity of a whiplash injury caused by this type of accident is determined by factors including the positions in which the occupants are seated, the position of their heads at the time of impact, the size and weight of each vehicle and even more personal details like occupant height and sex. Along with collisions, this whip-like movement can also be caused by contact sports, assault, slip, trip and fall accidents and even stress injuries from repetitive motions.

Symptoms and Side Effects of Whiplash

Symptoms of whiplash that result from these mishaps may not appear instantly. The first few days following an accident can reveal side effects beyond the typical neck soreness and stiffness. Serious, seemingly unrelated physical symptoms can appear such as upper limb and body pain, decreased range of motion, burning or tingling sensations, headaches and fatigue. Cognitive side effects are also possible including dizziness, blurred vision, disturbed sleep and difficulty concentrating.

Common Misconceptions

Car accidents may not be the sole cause of whiplash, but they are the source of one of the biggest misconceptions when it comes to understanding the injury. People often associate whiplash injuries with high impact collisions that occur at high speeds. The reality, however, is that whiplash associated with car collisions is actually caused by low impact, rear-end collisions that occur at lower speeds. Unfortunately, this leads people to another common misconceptionthat whiplash has a low impact on the occupants of the vehicle. Whiplash often goes untreated because it is perceived as a minor injury, but lack of treatment can lead to serious, long-term side effects.

A Tulsa Car Accident Lawyer Can Help

If you are concerned that you or someone you know is experiencing whiplash as a result of a vehicle collision, contact a Tulsa car accident lawyer at Parrish DeVaughn Law Firm today to receive immediate assistance. Your trusted personal injury lawyers can help you receive the compensation you deserve. Call us today for a consultation.