Whiplash

Whiplash is one of the most common injuries sustained in car accidents, especially in rear-end collisions. While brain injuries, broken bones, and herniated discs can be immediately apparent after an accident, whiplash is often underestimated because its symptoms may not show up right away. For many, this neck injury leads to chronic pain, stiffness, and other complications that can affect daily life.

The Prince George’s County car accident lawyers at Foran & Foran, P.A. understand the long-term impact of whiplash injuries and are dedicated to helping victims recover the compensation they deserve. If you have suffered whiplash in a car accident, we’re here for you. Our experienced Prince George's County whiplash lawyers will work with you to ensure your medical treatment and recovery costs are fully covered and that you receive compensation for your pain, suffering, and any loss of wages due to time off work.

Whiplash occurs when your head is suddenly jerked forward and snapped back rapidly, straining your neck's muscles, ligaments, and tendons. This injury is widespread in rear-end collisions, where the impact causes your head to whip in a back-and-forth motion. While it is often considered a soft tissue injury, whiplash can cause long-term pain and mobility issues.

Some common symptoms of whiplash include:

• Neck pain and stiffness,
• Headaches, especially at the base of the skull,
• Dizziness or blurred vision,
• Fatigue or trouble concentrating, and
• Numbness or tingling in the arms or hands.

These symptoms can develop hours or even days after the accident, making it essential to seek medical attention even if you feel fine right after the collision. A Prince George's County whiplash lawyer can help diagnose and treat your injuries properly.

One of the most persistent misconceptions about whiplash is that it's a minor injury that doesn't require much treatment. This belief leads many victims to avoid seeking medical care or delay treatment, which can worsen their condition over time. In reality, whiplash can result in chronic pain and mobility issues, affecting your ability to work and perform daily tasks.

Another misconception is that whiplash only occurs in high-speed crashes. While severe car accidents certainly increase the likelihood of injury, whiplash can happen even in low-speed collisions. Rear-end accidents at speeds as low as 10 miles per hour can still cause significant neck strain.

It's essential to treat whiplash as a serious injury and seek legal assistance to ensure you're compensated for your medical bills and other damages. Our Prince George's County whiplash attorneys will ensure that your case is handled correctly and that no aspect of your injury is overlooked.

Recovering from whiplash often involves a combination of medical treatments to reduce pain, improve mobility, and restore neck strength. Depending on the severity of your injury, your treatment plan may include the following:

• Physical therapy: This helps improve your range of motion and strengthens the muscles in your neck, reducing pain over time.
• Pain management: Medications such as anti-inflammatories or muscle relaxants may be prescribed to manage pain and inflammation.
• Chiropractic care: Some patients find relief from whiplash symptoms through chiropractic adjustments.
• Rest and supportive devices: In some cases, a doctor may recommend a soft collar to support your neck and limit movement, allowing your muscles and ligaments to heal.

Each case is unique, and some individuals may recover within weeks, while others may experience symptoms for months or even years. The duration of your recovery can impact your ability to work and maintain your everyday lifestyle, so it's important to seek compensation for lost wages, medical bills, and other related costs. A skilled lawyer will ensure that all aspects of your recovery are factored into your claim.

Proving the extent of a whiplash injury can be challenging, especially since it is primarily a soft tissue injury that may not show up on standard imaging tests like X-rays. However, with the proper evidence, you can build a solid case to support your compensation claim. Key pieces of evidence may include:

• Medical records: Detailed documentation from doctors, physical therapists, and other healthcare providers that outlines your diagnosis, treatment plan, and recovery progress.
• Imaging tests: While whiplash itself may not appear on X-rays or MRIs, these tests can help rule out other injuries, such as fractures or herniated discs.
• Expert testimony: In some cases, expert testimony from medical professionals can help explain the long-term effects of whiplash and the treatment necessary for recovery.
• Personal journal: Recording your symptoms and how they impact your daily life can also help prove the severity of your injury.

An experienced Prince George's County whiplash lawyer will help gather and present the necessary evidence to support your claim, ensuring you receive the full compensation you deserve.

If you've been hurt in a car accident, the financial burden from medical expenses and lost wages can pile up fast. On top of that, navigating the complexities of insurance claims is often overwhelming. At Foran & Foran, P.A., our dedicated team of Prince George’s County car accident attorneys is ready to guide you through every step, fighting to ensure you receive the compensation you’re entitled to. With over 60 years of experience handling car accident claims across Maryland, we’re committed to achieving the best outcome for your case. For more information or to schedule a free consultation, call us at 301-441-2022 or reach out through our secure online contact form. We also represent clients in Hyattsville, Bowie, Upper Marlboro, Waldorf, La Plata, Silver Spring, Rockville and the surrounding areas.