Whiplash is one of the most frequently misunderstood injuries after a car accident. While the term may sound mild, the reality is that whiplash can lead to lasting health problems if not properly treated. Even low-speed collisions can cause whiplash injuries that affect your quality of life for weeks, months, or even longer. If you’ve suffered whiplash in a motor vehicle crash, you must take it seriously—not only for your physical health but also to protect your legal rights.
What Is Whiplash?
Whiplash occurs when your head is forcefully jerked forward and backward, typically in a rear-end car crash. While your body is restrained by your seatbelt, your neck and head remain mobile, absorbing the impact of the crash. This rapid motion can strain or tear the muscles, tendons, and ligaments in your neck and upper back. In some cases, nearby nerves may also become irritated or compressed, causing radiating pain or numbness.
Can Whiplash Cause a Brain Injury?
Yes, whiplash can contribute to a mild traumatic brain injury (TBI), such as a concussion. The sudden jolt may cause the brain to move within the skull and strike the inner bone, especially if your head hits the headrest or another object. While not every whiplash victim suffers a brain injury, it is possible, and symptoms like headaches, dizziness, memory issues, and concentration problems may appear hours or days after the crash.
Can Whiplash Cause Spinal Cord or Disc Injuries?
Although complete spinal cord injuries are rare in typical whiplash cases, the cervical spine (neck area) can sustain structural damage. Whiplash can lead to herniated or bulging discs that press on nerves, causing pain, weakness, or numbness in the arms or shoulders. These types of injuries may require physical therapy, pain management, or even surgery in severe cases.
In higher-impact crashes, there is a risk of damage to the vertebrae that could affect the spinal cord. While less common, spinal trauma should never be ruled out without a thorough medical evaluation.
Can Whiplash Cause Long-Term or Permanent Damage?
Yes—many people recover from whiplash with time and treatment, but for others, the effects can linger. Studies have shown that up to 50% of whiplash victims report chronic symptoms beyond one year. Research also indicates that 10% to 20% may experience long-term disability, including persistent neck pain, reduced range of motion, and neurological symptoms.
Other complications include:
- Chronic headaches
- Sleep disturbances
- Depression or anxiety related to long-term pain
- Herniated discs that lead to sciatica-like symptoms or impaired mobility
These issues can interfere with your ability to work, drive, or even complete everyday tasks, making it critical to seek early diagnosis and ongoing care.
Why Timely Medical and Legal Help Matters
One of the most dangerous aspects of whiplash is that symptoms often appear hours or even days after an accident. Delaying treatment can lead to worsening symptoms and create challenges when filing a personal injury claim. Getting medical care right away not only supports your recovery, but it also provides documentation that links your injury to the crash.
You should also contact an experienced car accident lawyer. Insurance companies may minimize or deny the seriousness of soft tissue injuries like whiplash, even when they cause lasting harm. A legal advocate can help you pursue full compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Contact the Brooklyn Car Accident Lawyers at Rubenstein & Rynecki Today if You Have Suffered Whiplash Injuries in a Car Accident
The Brooklyn car accident lawyers at Rubenstein & Rynecki are here to stand up for your legal rights. For essential legal help and a free consultation, contact us online or call 718-522-1020. Located in Brooklyn, New York, we proudly serve clients throughout New York City, including Brooklyn, The Bronx, Manhattan, Queens, and Staten Island.
