whiplash injuries, Wisconsin Personal Injury LawyerAlthough the media has given whiplash sufferers who file legal claims a questionable reputation,  whiplash injuries, in reality, can cause serious pain and lasting effects.

Common Symptoms of Whiplash

“Whiplash” is not a single, specific injury, but rather a term used to refer to various soft tissue injuries in the neck. The soft tissue can become strained when a person's head suddenly jerks forward and then forcefully snaps back—similar to a cracking whip. This type of motion is common in traffic accidents, especially rear-end collisions.

Whiplash can be painful and includes the following symptoms:

  • Stiffness and pain;

  • Limited neck mobility due to pain;

  • Severe headaches;

  • Pain in the arms or shoulders;

  • Dizziness;

  • Fatigue;

  • Ringing of the ears;

  • Numbness or tingling sensations;

  • Irritability;

  • Difficulty sleeping;

  • Concentration issues;

  • Memory problems;

  • Blurry vision; and

  • Depression.

To alleviate symptoms and relieve neck strain, victims often require doctor visits, painkillers, rehabilitative therapy, and any other treatment deemed necessary by medical professionals. Therapy can continue for an extended period of time before an injury is fully healed. For this reason, victims may accrue significant medical bills following a whiplash injury. In addition, several of the above symptoms may keep certain whiplash sufferers from performing their job duties, which may cause them to lose income.

It is Important to Undergo a Medical Evaluation

Whiplash symptoms often do not develop for up to 24 hours after an accident. Unfortunately, whiplash victims may simply write off their pain and symptoms as lingering soreness and do not seek a medical evaluation. However, you should always be examined if you are experiencing any signs of whiplash, even if they do not appear until later. Moreover, symptoms of whiplash can be similar to other neck injuries including fractures or more serious damage to the neck tissue that may require more serious treatment to repair.

Furthermore, a doctor's diagnoses and records of injury can help you later prove your losses if you decide to file a legal claim. The records can also be used as evidence that your injuries were caused by an accident and not by some later event. You should also document the levels of pain you experience and any limitations you suffer as a result of your injury.

Contact a Wisconsin Attorney Today

It is always wise to discuss a possible legal claim with an experienced Green Bay personal injury lawyer or Appleton personal injury lawyer. At [[title]], we handle cases involving whiplash and other neck injuries, and we will work to help you recover for any losses you suffered. Our offices are located in Appleton, Oshkosh, and Green Bay. Please call us today at 920-739-7366.