People suffer from Whiplash Associated Disorder (WAD) more often than any other type of injury in a car crash. Commonly known as whiplash, this condition goes beyond temporary pain. Having whiplash can have significant long-term effects that prevent you from working and living life in the same way that you did before the accident. Those affected by whiplash suffer even more damage if they are not identified early enough and fail to receive the compensation that they need in order to recover.
When you suffer a whiplash injury due to an accident in Portland, you may wonder if you are entitled to compensation. Here, we’ll discuss what a whiplash injury is and how to obtain compensation for your losses.
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What Causes Whiplash?
Usually, whiplash will occur after a sudden impact to the neck and shoulders, which will cause the body to remain motionless as the head moves forward. A whiplash injury is a soft tissue injury that can lead to disability in extreme circumstances, and long-lasting pain. Car accidents are a top cause of whiplash, and medical expenses associated with your whiplash injury may be recoverable by filing a claim against the at-fault party.
Injuries caused by whiplash vary in severity depending on the amount of force and speed involved but normally result in sprains or tears of the ligaments, muscles, and tendons. Physical evidence of injury might not be revealed by an X-ray, MRI, or other imaging diagnostic measure. All these tests will result in significant expenses that you may not have planned for. With the help of a Portland whiplash injury lawyer, you can gain peace of mind during this challenging time.
Symptoms of Whiplash
Various types of accidents can lead to whiplash, but it is most commonly associated with motor vehicle accidents. Passengers and drivers wear seat belts that keep their bodies restrained but allow their heads and necks to move freely. In a collision, the vehicle will come to a sudden halt, but not the heads of the passengers.
Symptoms of whiplash may not show immediately. When an accident occurs, the body senses danger and hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline are released, which mask pain.
Even if you feel no injuries right away, it is imperative to seek medical attention after an accident.
Once the numbing effect begins to subside, people with WAD may encounter a variety of symptoms, including:
- Pain in the back, neck, and shoulders
- Visual impairment
- Soreness and pain in the jaw
- Ringing in the ears
- Vomit and nausea
After a collision, it is always best to secure medical treatment immediately to detect injuries that may not cause you discomfort right away.
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Is Whiplash a Long-term Condition?
Many people who suffer from whiplash recover within weeks; however, some people may experience symptoms for much longer than that. The Mayo Clinic notes that victims of whiplash may endure long-term pain if their initial symptoms were sudden, severe, and included the following:
- Intense neck pain
- Migraine or headache
- Severe pain in the arms
Furthermore, people who suffer whiplash are at an increased risk of developing long-term side effects and complications if they have:
- Previously suffered from whiplash
- Are older
- A history of neck and back pain
Portland Personal Injury Lawyers Help Obtain Compensation for Whiplash Victims
Almost all car accidents are caused by carelessness or unreasonable behavior, allowing victims the right to proceed with a personal injury claim. By working with an experienced whiplash injury attorney, it may be possible to hold the responsible party liable for the accident by collecting evidence regarding the crash and presenting a strong case. Your attorney can handle all the procedures, documentation, and keep you updated throughout the claims process while you heal.
Keep in mind that whiplash can occur after many other types of accidents as well, including truck, motorcycle, slip-and-fall, boating accidents, and many others. Rizk Law attorneys can help you regardless of the circumstances.
Contact our office today by calling 503.852.5761.
Speak with a Reputable Whiplash Attorney in Portland
If you have sustained whiplash because of another’s negligence, your lawyer can help protect your rights and tell you whether you might be eligible for compensation.
At Rizk Law, our legal team evaluates and guides you through the claims process keeping your interests at heart. Schedule your free, no-obligation consultation by calling (503) 342-0783 or completing our online contact form today.
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