Whiplash: A Common But Often Overlooked Injury After Baltimore Car Accidents
Car accidents in Baltimore are violent events, and even a relatively minor crash or fender bender can result in serious personal injuries. One of the most common and most misunderstood is whiplash.
Whiplash happens due to damage to soft tissues and can cause ongoing pain and mobility issues. Unfortunately, because it doesn’t always show up immediately or on diagnostic imaging, insurance companies are quick to dismiss it.
If you’re suffering from neck pain, headaches, or stiffness after a crash, don’t ignore it. Our Maryland car accident lawyers explain what you need to know about whiplash, common symptoms, and how to protect your rights to compensation.
Common Causes Of Whiplash In Baltimore Car Accidents And Symptoms To Be Alert For
Whiplash is a common personal injury that happens whenever the neck is suddenly and forcefully jerked forward and backward, much like the crack of a whip. This can stretch and strain muscles and other soft tissues in the neck area, resulting in pain, reduced range of motion, and other impairments.
The Mayo Clinic advises that whiplash is common in car accidents, particularly rear-end collisions. While you might not notice any pain immediately, potentially serious symptoms can arise in the aftermath. These include:
- Neck pain or stiffness;
- Headaches, often focused at the base of the skull;
- Feeling lightheaded, dizzy, or having blurred vision;
- Limited range of motion;
- Pain in the shoulders, back, or arms;
- Memory problems or trouble concentrating.
These symptoms can make working, driving, or performing daily tasks difficult. In severe cases, whiplash may lead to chronic pain or permanent impairments.
How to Protect Your Rights When You Suffer Whiplash Due To A Baltimore Car Accident
The Maryland Department of Transportation reports that over 100,000 motor vehicle accidents occur annually throughout the state. Whiplash can happen due to even relatively minor crashes. When other drivers are to blame, you can hold them liable for your losses.
You may be entitled to compensation under the Maryland Code for your medical bills, missed wages, and other costs, but insurance companies often minimize whiplash. To protect your health and your rights in a Baltimore car accident claim, follow these steps if you suspect whiplash:
- See a doctor right away, even if symptoms are mild at first.
- Follow up with specialists, such as physical therapists or neurologists, as needed.
- Request copies of medical records and accident reports.
- Document your pain and limitations in a daily journal.
- Contact our experienced Maryland car accident lawyers before making statements to insurers or accepting a settlement.
To Consult Our Experienced Maryland Car Accident Lawyers, Contact Our Office Today
Though symptoms may be subtle at first, car accidents in Baltimore can cause whiplash injuries that impact you for a long time afterward. To get the compensation you need to cover your medical bills, missed earnings, and other losses, contact Maryland Injury Lawyers.
We understand how debilitating whiplash can be and fight for the maximum compensation. For trusted legal guidance in your claim, schedule a consultation right away with our experienced Maryland car accident lawyers.
Sources:
mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/whiplash/symptoms-causes/syc-20378921
mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/laws/StatuteText?article=gcj§ion=11-109&enactments=false
