Whiplash is one of the most common injuries in a car accident. Whiplash occurs when a person’s head moves abruptly back and forth. The term “whiplash” derives from how the neck moves like a cracking whip. This forceful motion is typically characterized by injuries to the muscles and connective tissues in the neck. However, whiplash can also result in a concussion, even if a person’s head doesn’t strike a hard surface.
Concussion Signs and Symptoms
A concussion is a type of brain injury that results from traumatic forces. When someone experiences a sudden change in motion, such as in car collisions, they can suffer a concussion, with or without hitting their head. When a car crash occurs, a person’s body suddenly goes from moving at a certain speed to an abrupt stop.
The forward momentum of the head can cause a person’s brain to impact the inside of their skull, leading to brain damage. The severity of a concussion can range from moderate to severe.
Symptoms of a concussion caused by whiplash include:
- Headaches
- Fatigue
- Dizziness
- Blurred vision
- Tinnitus (ringing in the ears)
- Disturbed sleeping behavior
- Impaired cognitive functions
- Strange changes in mood and behavior
If you’ve experienced these symptoms after being in a car crash, you should speak with a doctor as soon as possible. Many symptoms that arise from traumatic brain injuries may not be observable in a brief doctor’s appointment. Your doctor can order accurate tests to find more conclusive evidence showing that you sustained a traumatic brain injury. Moreover, a doctor can advise you on what activities you should avoid, so your condition isn’t aggravated.
Traumatic Brain Injury and Litigation
Medical evidence of traumatic brain injury is crucial in a car accident lawsuit. This is particularly true when the traumatic brain injury occurs even though the injured party didn’t strike their head on another object.
Neurologists and neuropsychologists are instrumental in developing a personal injury case involving brain injuries because brain impairments and their effect on motor functions – like standing, walking, loss of sensation, impaired balance, and paralysis – are rated differently for insurance purposes.
Any Questions? Ask an Experienced New Orleans Car Accident Attorney
At The Womac Law Firm, we have more than 35 years of personal injury litigation experience. Our New Orleans car accident attorneys have devoted much of their practice to representing people who’ve been injured in car accidents. We know what to look for when it comes to car accident injuries. Louisiana residents have come to trust our ability to provide comprehensive and effective legal advocacy.
Contact The Womac Law Firm online, or call us at (504) 470-3935 today to schedule your free initial case evaluation with our dedicated attorneys.
