How long can whiplash last after a MI auto accident?

According to the Mayo Clinic, most people develop signs and symptoms of whiplash within days of the Michigan auto accident injury. In rare cases, symptoms may appear later. 

What is whiplash?

Whiplash is a neck injury caused by the rapid back and forth movements of the neck, like the cracking of a whip.

What causes whiplash or neck pain in an auto accident?

Any event that causes rapid back and forth movement of the neck can cause whiplash, such as car crashes, falls, contact sports, and physical assaults. 

Whiplash is particularly common in rear-end car crashes because rear-end crashes often cause three rapid movements of your body. First, your body moves backward in a rear-end crash (toward the seat). Second, due to the elasticity (springiness) of the seat, your body rebounds off the seat and moves forward (toward the dash). Third, your body is caught by the seat belt, causing your body to come to an abrupt stop, while your neck continues forward. These rapid changes of direction can produce whiplash.

What are the symptoms of whiplash?

Symptoms of whiplash can include:

• neck pain and stiffness
• worsening of neck pain with movement
• loss of neck range of motion
• headaches, often starting at the base of the skull
• tenderness or pain in the shoulder, upper back, or arms
• tingling or numbness in the arms
• fatigue
• dizziness

These physical symptoms can lead to mental and emotional symptoms, including:

• irritability
• difficulty concentrating
• memory problems
• anxiety
• depression

How is whiplash diagnosed in Michigan?

A doctor usually diagnoses whiplash. The doctor will generally ask you questions about your injury, such as:

• How did it happen?
• Where is your pain?
• What type of pain is it, aching, burning, sharp or dull?

The doctor will do a physical exam to check for loss of range of motion and tenderness. 

Your doctor may also order imaging tests, such as x-rays, CTs, or MRIs. These help your doctor see what is going on inside your neck. 

How long does whiplash usually last?

According to the Mayo Clinic, most people with whiplash improve within a few weeks and do not have lasting effects. However, some people continue to have pain for several months or years after the injury.

What do I do if I have whiplash in Michigan?

If you are experiencing whiplash or neck pain after a Michigan automobile accident, see a doctor. Your pain could be from a more severe condition, such as a herniated disk in your neck, and your doctor will help you rule out other causes. 

Your doctor can also prescribe you medications to lessen your pain. 

You should also speak with an experienced Michigan car accident attorney. Whiplash is a serious injury. If you suffered whiplash in a vehicle accident in Southwest Michigan, you likely have a valuable legal claim. Insurance companies act quickly to minimize their financial exposure. This often includes contacting crash victims and obtaining recorded statements. You want information so you can be in control and protect your family. An experienced car crash attorney can advise you of your rights and help you get the maximum recovery for your claim. 

If you want to know more about whiplash, neck pain or your legal rights, call or contact Conybeare Law Office now. 

The knowledgeable Southwestern Michigan injury attorneys at Conybeare Law Office will help you value your case and fight to get you the money you deserve. 

To learn more about the legal services offered to our injury clients, talk to our office today. Conybeare Law Office has offices in Saint Joseph and Kalamazoo, Michigan, and serves all of southwest Michigan and beyond. Call us at (800) 983-0561 or contact us for a free consultation. We look forward to talking with you. Remember, if it’s not fair, call the bear.