Whiplash (when the neck suddenly whips back and forth) is one of the most common injuries from a car accident. When whiplash happens, head or brain injuries are also possible. It’s vital to get treatment for these types of injuries immediately to prevent further damage.
Research has shown that whiplash may cause brain changes that cannot be seen in tests. Victims could have symptoms of brain damage that don’t show up immediately. Certain parts of the brain may be impacted more during whiplash.
Whiplash and Brain Injuries
According to Science Daily, some whiplash symptoms can last years but not show up on tests. This could be because of changes in the “pain and posture processing parts of the brain.”
New study results show a close connection between the neck and brain. This can lead to changes in blood flow that affect the brain.
A study published in EBioMedicine showed blood flow changes in parts of the brain that:
- Notice pain, and
- Process sensory information within the body.
These changes can explain why whiplash can cause long-term symptoms. More research is needed. However, the study shows what areas of the brain might suffer damage during whiplash.
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Brain Damage from Whiplash Might Go Unnoticed
Whiplash is an often-underrated injury after a car accident, especially one that happens at low speeds. Someone might not see a doctor after their accident if they feel okay. However, the accident victim could start to experience pain later.
Whiplash is often hard to diagnose. Even if a victim comes in with pain, the doctor might not see anything on a test. This can lead to further problems if the injury goes untreated. It might seem like the victim is making up symptoms or just trying to get compensation—when that’s rarely true.
What to Do After Whiplash from an Accident
Whiplash is one of the most challenging injuries to document. However, there are ways you can help to show your injuries after an accident. Here are some important steps to take.
Report the Accident
According to the Official Code of Georgia Annotated (OCGA) §40-6-273, you must report a car accident if there are:
- Physical injuries, or
- At least $500 in property damage.
Whiplash injuries make it difficult to know if you’re actually injured. You might not feel pain until hours or days later. Plus, accidents that cause whiplash can be minor.
You might not think the accident is worth reporting. However, it’s best to call the police and report the crash. When officers ask if you’re injured, say you’re “not sure” if you don’t yet have pain. Don’t discuss specific injuries until you’ve seen a doctor and spoken to a lawyer first.
See a Doctor
Even if you feel okay, see a doctor for an examination. You could have whiplash or other underlying issues. A doctor can examine you for potential injuries.
If someone else caused your accident, you can file an insurance claim for compensation. However, the insurance company will look for ways to pay you less. If you wait too long to see a doctor, the insurer will probably use it against you.
Go to the doctor, and tell them about any pain you have. If symptoms worsen or show up later, call your doctor immediately. Even if nothing shows up on a test, you could still have whiplash injuries.
Document Your Costs
Save all medical bills, doctor notes, and other documentation of your injury. You might also take notes on how the accident has affected you. Have you noticed a difference in your mood? Are you in a lot of pain? Are you unable to work the same way because of the crash?
An experienced lawyer can help document your damages like:
- Medical costs
- Future medical care needs
- Lost wages
- Loss of earning capacity
- Vehicle repair costs
- Pain and suffering
At John Foy & Associates, we can help calculate all of your damages. Our lawyers have worked on countless whiplash cases in Georgia. We’re not afraid to stand up for your rights and what you deserve.
If you have questions about your accident or injuries, contact us today. We’ll get you started with a FREE consultation. Call (404) 400-4000 or contact us online.
Talk to a Car Accident Lawyer
Whiplash injuries are complicated, and insurance companies rarely take them seriously. The best things you can do for yourself include:
- Documenting the accident
- Seeing a doctor
- Contacting an experienced lawyer
We know that whiplash can lead to brain damage in some cases. Don’t discount your injuries and how they impact your life. Avoid downplaying your damages or accepting a settlement before consulting a lawyer first.
Get a Free Consultation with a Car Accident Lawyer
John Foy & Associates has been helping accident victims for over 20 years. Our founder is known as the “Strong Arm” in Georgia because we’re not afraid to stand up for your rights. We also work on contingency, meaning there is no charge unless we win you money.
Contact us today for a FREE consultation after your car accident. Call us at (404) 400-4000 or contact us online.
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