Rear-end collisions frequently cause whiplash injuries to people nationwide, including in Louisiana. Imagine cracking a whip. That same motion often happens to occupants of vehicles that are struck from the rear. The impact of a rear-end collision could cause a rapid, forceful movement of the neck as it whips back and forth.
Potential whiplash injuries and symptoms
Whiplash injuries could vary in severity, and symptoms may appear insignificant at first but progress over several days after the accident. This type of injury could damage the spinal bones and the discs between the vertebrae. Damage to the muscles, ligaments, nerves and neck tissues could lead to the following symptoms:
- Headaches originating at the base of the skull
- Stiffness and pain in the neck
- Loss of motion range in the neck
- Neck pain worsening with movement
- Numbness and tingling in the arms
- Pain and tenderness in the arms, shoulder and upper back
- Dizziness and fatigue
A medical evaluation is crucial
A medical exam as soon after the accident as possible could limit long-term harm and chronic pain. The following are typical signs of more severe damage:
- Tinnitus or ringing in the ears
- Blurred vision
- Irritability
- Disturbed sleep patterns
- Impaired memory
- Concentration problems
- Depression
Another reason to see a doctor is to make sure there are no fractured or broken bones. Other potential permanent damage could be brain trauma caused by the whiplash motion. The force of the movement can harm brain cells as it slams into the rigid inner walls of the skull.
Medical records can benefit a civil lawsuit
Any injuries that progress and worsen over time might not be linked to an accident if there are no medical records to substantiate it. Suppose the rear-end vehicle accident followed another driver’s negligence. In that case, the victim could file a personal injury lawsuit in a Louisiana civil court to pursue financial relief to cover medical expenses, lost wages and even emotional damages, like pain and suffering.