Whiplash victims have been unfairly targeted as the butt of jokes hinting that these victims may be exaggerating their symptoms or fraudulently pursuing money. At Angotti & Straface Attorneys at Law, we are not laughing.
Whiplash Is No Joke
Whiplash is a neck injury caused by the very forceful and rapid back and forth motion of the neck, similar to the cracking of a whip. This invisible injury is not readily apparent to others, but is unmistakable to the victim. Whiplash can be excruciatingly painful and disabling. It is commonly experienced by those involved in rear-end vehicle accidents and falls, as well as victims of assault. The pain and stiffness of whiplash can linger for months or years after the injury. Serious brain damage may accompany whiplash and can last a lifetime. Some whiplash victims, especially those involved in high-speed accidents, those with existing back and neck pain, and older individuals, may develop lifelong chronic neck pain and additional complications, as well.
Whiplash Symptoms
If you suffered a whiplash injury, it is unlikely you will be aware of the fact at the time of the accident. Symptoms can take days to appear. These can include:
Pain, Stiffness, and Decreased Range of Motion In The Neck
Increased Pain With Neck Movement
Headaches
Pain and Tenderness Throughout the Upper Back, Shoulders, and Arms
Arm Numbness and Tingling
Dizziness
Fatigue
Blurred Vision
Irritability
Depression
Insomnia
Tinnitus (Ringing In the Ears)
Memory and Cognition Problems
Difficulty Concentrating
Whiplash May Indicate the Presence of More Severe Injuries
If you have been diagnosed with whiplash resulting from of a serious motor vehicle accident, fall, or assault, the bodily damage you suffered may go beyond the soft tissues of your neck. The forces required to cause whiplash injury may cause other damage. This can include damage to the nervous system, spinal column, muscles, ligaments, auxiliary nerves, and adjacent tissues, as well. Notably, any impact severe enough to cause whiplash may also result in damage to the brain. The true extent of brain damage may not be immediately apparent. Brain damage may cause the development of seizures, hearing and vision impairment, bleeding within the brain, loss of language, and other serious impairments. It is important that you seek prompt medical attention and follow up with all recommended tests, medical procedures, and interventions.
Can I File a Personal Injury Claim for Whiplash?
Victims of serious whiplash and related injuries can be left with life-long pain and disabilities; however, minor cases of whiplash may self-resolve. If you have been diagnosed with whiplash, you may be eligible to pursue financial compensation for lost wages, medical bills, pain, suffering, and other damages. Each case of whiplash is unique. If you believe it may be worth filing a personal injury claim for your whiplash injury, contact Angotti & Straface Attorneys at Law right away for a complimentary initial consultation. We can help determine whether a personal injury lawsuit is the ideal course of action for you.
Call Angotti & Straface Attorneys at Law
If you have been diagnosed with a whiplash injury through no fault of your own, contact Angotti & Straface Attorneys at Law in Morgantown right away to find out if you are eligible to pursue compensation for your losses. Since 1952, our legal team has pursued the maximum financial compensation allowed by law for our injured clients throughout West Virginia. We understand the issues our injured clients are facing and have recovered millions in compensation to help them recover after serious and catastrophic personal injuries. If you are too injured to come to our office in Morgantown, we will come to your home or hospital bed. Call Angotti & Straface and let us know what happened: (304) 292-4381.