How Long Does Whiplash Last After A Car Crash?

Whiplash is commonly associated with car accidents, leaving crash victims with lingering pain and discomfort. Getting compensation for your accident injuries and vehicle damage does not have to be painful, though. Our experienced Charleston car accident lawyers are available to handle your claim – and to fight for the benefits you deserve. 

car crash with woman having whiplash after car accident and neck pain

How Long Does Whiplash Last?

Most people with whiplash recover within a few weeks, with painful symptoms subsiding over time. Some crash victims, however, continue to experience pain for months or even years after their accident. 

Common Symptoms

If you are experiencing the following symptoms after your car crash, whiplash may be to blame: 

  • Dizziness
  • Neck pain/stiffness
  • Headaches (near base of the skull)
  • Fatigue
  • Decreased range of motion in the neck
  • Shoulder, upper back or arm pain
  • Tingling/numbness in the arms
  • Pain that worsens with neck movements

Other symptoms include: 

  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Blurred vision/sight
  • Irritability
  • Memory issues
  • Depression
  • Ringing sound in the ears (tinnitus)
  • Trouble sleeping

Please note that symptoms typically develop within a few days of the accident.

When To See A Physician To Examine Your Whiplash

If you are experiencing any of the whiplash symptoms listed above, visit your doctor immediately. A prompt diagnosis is needed to ensure that you have not broken any bones or done serious damage that requires treatment. In fact, our Charleston auto accident attorneys recommend getting checked out by a doctor after a car wreck, even if you do not think you are injured.

Common Causes

Whiplash occurs when the head is thrown backward, then forward, very quickly. This jarring motion can injure the spine, ligaments, muscles, nerves, tissues and the disks separating vertebrae. 

Whiplash often results from the following:

  • Auto accidents
    Rear-end collisions often cause whiplash, due to the sudden impact of the other vehicle from behind.
  • Physical abuse or assault
    Punching or violent shaking can cause whiplash as well. Shaken baby syndrome is often linked to whiplash in children.
  • Contact sports
    Sports like football can cause whiplash, with tackles and collisions puting players at risk.

How to Treat Whiplash

If you are experiencing whiplash symptoms, seek medical treatment immediately. Your doctor will provide a detailed treatment plan, typically involving medication for pain management and exercises to increase mobility. Be sure to carefully follow your doctor’s instructions. 

Injured After a Car Accident? Discover A Trusted Charleston Car Accident Lawyer Near Me

Hoffman Law Firm is proud to serve local drivers, offering legal representation to our friends and neighbors here in the Lowcountry. Attorney David Hoffman and his Charleston car accident lawyers will work tirelessly to get you the medical care you need and the compensation you are entitled to. Schedule your free consultation today!

Our personal injury law firm offers trusted legal advice in a wide variety of cases here in the Lowcountry, including: 

Personal injury 

Car Accident

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Motorcycle Accident

Workers’ Comp

Wrongful Death

Longshoreman & Maritime

Medical Malpractice

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When seeking a skilled Charleston car accident lawyer near me, choose Hoffman Law Firm. We are ready with your initial free consultation today!

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