Whiplash is a neck injury named after the snapping motion of the head and neck, back and forth, cracking like a whip. Neck injuries, like whiplash, can be very serious and may even cause permanent damage. However, the symptoms of a neck injury may take time to develop. A car accident victim may feel fine after the accident only to have serious pain develop hours or days later. 

Head, neck, and back injuries should always be evaluated by a doctor after an accident. Even if you feel like there was no serious damage, it is better to be safe than sorry. Delayed treatment may increase the risk of permanent damage. If you suffered a whiplash injury in a Denver car accident, talk to an experienced personal injury lawyer about getting compensation for your losses.

Causes of Whiplash Injuries

Whiplash is one of the most common types of neck injuries in an auto accident. In a rear-end accident, the force of the car from behind causes the driver or passenger's neck to hyperextend backward and then hyperflex forward, causing a snapping motion that puts extreme pressure on the cervical tissue in the neck and upper back. 

Many whiplash injuries are only temporary. The injury can still be very painful, causing headaches, dizziness, and stiffness. Minor whiplash can be treated with painkillers, exercise, and restricting movement of the neck with a brace. With a timely medical check, this can clear up in a few days or weeks. 

Serious whiplash injuries can cause chronic pain and permanent damage. Symptoms of whiplash can include: 

• Neck pain
• Stiffness 
• Loss of range of motion
• Headaches
• Dizziness
• Blurred vision
• Memory problems
• Difficulty concentrating 

A medical examination may be necessary to make sure there are no further complications, like broken bones or head trauma. This may include imaging tests like X-rays, MRI, or computerized tomography (CT). Treatment generally involves pain management, exercise, and physical therapy.

Recovery After a Car Accident in Denver

A whiplash injury can be very costly. Medical care in the U.S. can be very expensive, even with insurance. Whiplash treatment could add up to tens of thousands of dollars, with the injury victim struggling to pay the bills. A whiplash injury could leave the victim out of work for days, weeks, or even require a change of profession. Without a paycheck coming in, the injury victim may be left figuring out if they even can pay for medical care. 

A Denver personal injury lawyer can make a big difference after a car accident neck injury. Your lawyer will be able to deal with the insurance company to make sure your claim is taken seriously. This can speed up payment for damages and increase the settlement offer for your injuries. Your lawyer can also take away the burden of fighting with insurance companies to get paid for your medical bills, lost wages, and future treatment. 

If you suffered an injury in a Colorado auto accident, do not hesitate to contact the Denver Legal Eagles today at 303-642-8888 for a free consultation.