Whiplash and concussions are common injuries that car accident victims suffer. Following an accident, it can be quite difficult to differentiate whiplash and concussion injuries because they have overlapping symptoms. In addition, the causes of concussions and whiplash injuries are similar, which often confuses people. However, whiplash and concussions are different injuries. It is imperative to understand where these injuries differ to ensure you are receiving proper medical treatment after an accident. Please continue to follow along to learn more about the differences between these two injuries and how a determined New York City Car Accident Attorney can help you navigate your legal options.
Is there a difference between whiplash and a concussion?
Following an accident, it can be difficult to understand the differences between whiplash and a concussion injury as they have similar symptoms. However, both of these common injuries are quite different regardless of overlapping symptoms. For starters, a whiplash injury impacts the neck and shoulders while a concussion impacts the head. However, a whiplash injury can lead to a brain injury. With that being said, although they have similarities these injuries are different.
Whiplash
Whiplash injuries occur when an individual’s body is forcefully jolted forward and backward from the impact of a collision. This type of injury causes strain on the neck. Often, the symptoms appear immediately, however, sometimes this type of injury can have delayed effects and an individual won’t notice symptoms until days after the collision. Typically, those who suffer from a whiplash injury will experience a stiff neck, a limited range of motion in their neck and shoulders, tenderness throughout the neck and shoulders, tingling in the arms, dizziness, and severe headaches.
Concussions
A concussion on the other hand is classified as a mild traumatic brain injury (TBI). A concussion occurs when the brain is violently jolted against the side of the skull. Essentially, as a result of a forceful impact, the brain moves around in the skull causing bruising to the brain. Being classified as TBI, concussions require immediate medical attention to prevent any further damage. Often, those with concussions experience cognitive decline. Some of the symptoms of a concussion include headaches, confusion, behavioral changes, dizziness, slurred speech, fatigue, light sensitivity, nausea, and bringing in the ears.
After a car accident, even if your injuries seem minor, it is imperative to seek immediate medical attention. These types of injuries can have devastating effects if left untreated. A medical professional will be able to give you a proper diagnosis to ensure you are receiving proper medical treatment for your injuries. Unfortunately, after a car accident victims are often burdened with expensive medical bills after sustaining an injury as a result of another party’s negligent actions. Victims may be entitled to compensation if they can prove their injuries were a direct result of another party’s negligence.
In the unfortunate event that you have been injured in a car accident as a result of negligence, please don’t hesitate to reach out to one of our seasoned attorneys who can help you recover reasonable monetary compensation for your damages.
