Whiplash is one of the most common car accident injuries in Cartersville. Some people recover quickly, while others have pain for years. If you suffered whiplash in an accident, you need legal assistance. Talk to a Cartersville whiplash injury lawyer today.
At John Foy & Associates, we have a successful track record of helping countless whiplash victims win the damages they deserve. We are one of the largest personal injury firms in the state, and we’re here to help after your accident.
To get a FREE consultation, contact us today. We do not charge a fee unless we win your case. Call (404) 400-4000 or contact us online for your FREE consultation.
Whiplash Is a Common Neck Injury in Car Accidents
Whiplash happens when your head whips back-and-forth quickly. It’s called “whiplash” because the motion is like cracking a whip. The movement strains and damages tender muscles in the neck.
Whiplash is incredibly common in car accidents. Drivers experience whiplash most frequently with rear-end collisions. The forward-and-back motion of a rear-end accident is rough on another’s neck.
Whiplash is also often misunderstood. People doubt whiplash injuries because they don’t show up on imaging tests. However, whiplash is very real—and it can be severe.
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Whiplash Signs and Symptoms
There are several common symptoms of whiplash. You might have any of the following:
- Neck stiffness
- Neck pain (that worsens with movement)
- Shoulder and upper back pain
- Headaches or migraines
- Dizziness
- Loss of neck range of motion
- Tingling or numbness in the arms
- Vision issues
For some people, whiplash gets better in a few days. However, some people have symptoms for months or years. Whiplash can impact many areas of your life.
After your accident, get medical attention immediately. Since whiplash is unpredictable, you will need to understand how your case looks. A doctor can evaluate you and determine your treatment needs.
Even if you feel fine after your crash, see a doctor. You could have damage that hasn’t fully manifested yet.
Whiplash Takes Time to Develop
You might not feel whiplash right after an accident. Or, you might feel mild discomfort that doesn’t seem like a big deal. However, don’t assume you’re feeling the full extent of your injuries right away.
Whiplash injuries can worsen with time. For example, you might feel intense pain hours or days after the accident. As your adrenaline wears off and the swelling sets in, the pain might become unbearable.
You cannot see whiplash from the outside, so see a doctor immediately after your accident. If you experience worsening pain, go back to your doctor for a follow-up.
Common Causes of Whiplash
The symptoms and causes of whiplash vary per person. The most common reasons for whiplash are:
- Car accidents, especially rear-end collisions
- Contact sports, such as football
- Physical assault or abuse
After a car accident, you should always see a doctor for whiplash. Your doctor will determine your treatment needs. They’ll also rule out other injuries, such as concussions or broken bones.
How Doctors Treat Whiplash in Cartersville
If whiplash is mild, your doctor might prescribe home treatments like:
- Ice packs
- Rest
- Over-the-counter medications
More severe whiplash might require further treatment. For example, you could need physical therapy or muscle relaxants.
Document all treatment costs for your whiplash, even over-the-counter options. Also, keep track of doctor notes, medication receipts, and hospital bills. You will need evidence of your costs for your personal injury claim.
You Could Be Eligible for Compensation After a Whiplash Injury
If someone else caused your accident, you might be eligible for compensation. In Georgia, all drivers have a duty of care to each other. They must act in a way that doesn’t harm others.
If a driver breaches their duty of care, they are liable for any damages (Georgia Code §51-1-6). So, if another driver caused your accident, they are responsible. You can seek financial recovery through a personal injury claim.
You will need to file a claim with the driver’s insurance company. Make sure your claim proves that:
- The driver owed you a duty of care.
- The driver was “negligent”, or careless.
- The driver’s negligence led to your accident.
- Your accident left you with damages.
An experienced whiplash injury lawyer can help. Your lawyer will know how to build a strong whiplash claim. They’ll also help you deal with the insurance company.
Most injury claims end with a settlement. Your lawyer will fight for the fullest compensation possible. However, some cases require you to sue for what you deserve. If you end up filing a lawsuit, your lawyer will be there for each step.
To learn more, contact John Foy & Associates for a FREE consultation. Call (404) 400-4000 or contact us online to get started today.
Damages You Might Recover
You can pursue compensation for all losses from the accident. These losses are your “damages” in a personal injury claim. Common whiplash injury damages include:
- Medical bills
- Prescription medications
- Estimated future medical costs
- Lost wages
- Loss of earning capacity
- Property damage
- Pain and suffering
Whiplash claims can be challenging. The insurance company might doubt your damages if they see if you have whiplash. The insurer knows that many people don’t take whiplash seriously, and they might use that against you.
It’s also challenging to determine the future costs of an accident. If you can, complete your medical treatment as much as possible before filing a claim. That way, you’ll know the full extent of your treatment costs.
Accident claims are confusing and complicated. Thankfully, you do not have to handle it alone. An experienced lawyer will help you with each step.
Speak with a Cartersville Whiplash Injury Lawyer for Free Today
If you suffered whiplash in an accident, take action immediately. In Georgia, you only have two years to seek compensation. Call a lawyer to get started today.
John Foy & Associates has been helping accident victims for over 20 years. We know the challenges of a whiplash claim—and we know how to overcome them. We’re also not afraid to stand up to the insurance companies for you.
To get a FREE, no-risk consultation, call (404) 400-4000, or contact us online.
404-400-4000 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
