Most people have had a sore neck at some point in their lives. While all neck problems are inconvenient, they are nothing compared to whiplash. Whiplash is surprisingly common, and it can have longstanding implications. If you are suffering from whiplash in the Bay Area, you need to understand what legal options you have to receive compensation.
What Is Whiplash?
Whiplash is caused when the neck is moved back and forth very quickly, usually in car accidents. This usually happens when the body is jarred forward and then jerked back in rapid order. The reason it is called whiplash is because the neck jerks back and forth, cracking like a whip.
How Can a Bay Area Whiplash Injury Lawyer Help?
If you have whiplash, the first thing to do is to get checked out by a medical professional. However, in addition to receiving treatment, you should also consider your legal options. If your whiplash was caused by an automobile accident or other trauma, then you may be able to receive compensation through a civil personal injury case. When you work with a Bay Area whiplash injury lawyer, they can determine whether or not your situation qualifies for legal action. A viable case must be able to prove that another party is responsible for your condition. When you can prove that this other party is responsible, the court will often order that you receive compensation to cover your medical bills, lost wages, mental anguish and more.
What Are the Symptoms of Whiplash?
Whiplash is often defined by neck pain. This pain can also take the form of stiffness, and it can be exacerbated by neck movement. Because of this, many people lose some of their ability to move their neck in a full range of motion. The pain can spread to other parts of the body as well. Headaches are a common symptom, and these headaches often start at the base of the skull and radiate into the rest of the head. Pain may also radiate down into the shoulders, upper back or even the arms. Other symptoms can include tingling in the arms, general fatigue, dizziness, blurred vision and more.
What Are the Complications of Whiplash?
In many cases, whiplash will resolve with conservative treatment within several days or weeks. However, some people will suffer ongoing complications after the initial accident. In these cases, symptoms may persist for months or even years. The most common complications are debilitating neck pain and headaches. Some people experience ongoing pain in the arms. These pains can be chronic, and they can seriously impact one’s life and require ongoing care and maintenance. The risk of chronic pain due to whiplash is increased if the initial symptoms are especially strong. Other risk factors for ongoing complications include previous neck injuries, established back pain and old age.
What Should You Look for in a Bay Area Whiplash Injury Lawyer?
Before hiring a lawyer, you need to make sure he or she is qualified. You will be best served by a law firm that excels in personal injury cases. In addition to experience, consider the way the firm treats its clients. Our legal team takes great pride in providing exceptional support for our clients at all stages of the recovery process. Contact San Jose Personal Injury Attorneys today to learn more about pursuing a whiplash injury case.