Hurt in a car accident? Are you feeling the impact of whiplash? It is one of the most common car accident injuries, and it can carry serious long-term effects. At Smith & Jones Law, LLC, we are car accident lawyers who put victims and families first. Here, our Lexington car accident lawyer provides an overview of the long-term adverse effects of whiplash.
An Overview of the Long-Term Effects of Whiplash
Whiplash may appear minor at first, but it often leaves lasting damage. Many victims experience symptoms that persist long after the crash. The sudden back-and-forth motion of the neck can cause injury to muscles, ligaments, nerves, and vertebrae. Recovery may take months or even years, and some victims never fully regain their prior level of comfort or mobility. Here are some of the most common long-term adverse effects of whiplash from a car accident:
- Chronic Neck Pain and Next Stiffness: Next issues can be extremely serious. Persistent pain and limited range of motion are hallmarks of long-term whiplash. The ligaments and soft tissues that support the cervical spine can heal improperly. It can create ongoing inflammation and muscular tension. Victims with this type of whiplash often report daily stiffness, discomfort when turning their heads, or sharp pain during activity.
- Degenerative Disc Disease (Cervical Spine): Whiplash can accelerate wear and tear on cervical discs. The violent motion may cause herniation or structural changes that develop into degenerative disc disease over time. Once this condition begins, it can lead to nerve compression and recurring neck or shoulder pain. In severe cases, victims may require surgery to address their degenerative disc condition.
- Headaches, including Severe Migraines: Whiplash can be the root cause of bad headaches. In fact, recurring headaches are one of the most common lingering symptoms after whiplash. These headaches often originate from neck muscle tension or joint dysfunction at the base of the skull. For some, they escalate into full migraines triggered by movement, stress, or bright light.
- Radiating Pain and Nerve Damage: If whiplash injures cervical nerves, symptoms may radiate into the shoulders, arms, or upper back. Victims may experience tingling, burning, or numbness that mimics nerve compression disorders. Long-term nerve damage can impair grip strength and fine motor control. Even with physical therapy, nerve-related pain may persist for years and require ongoing medical management.
- Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Dysfunction: The force that injures the neck may also affect the jaw joint. TMJ dysfunction can cause pain while chewing, jaw clicking, or headaches near the temples. It is a condition that may persist indefinitely without targeted treatment. A proactive approach to TMJ is a must.
- Cognitive and Memory Problems: Severe whiplash can produce cognitive symptoms known collectively as whiplash-associated disorder (WAD). Victims may notice difficulty concentrating, forgetfulness, or mental fatigue. These issues often stem from a mild traumatic brain injury (concussion) that occurred alongside neck trauma.
- Emotional/Psychological Effects: Chronic pain frequently leads to emotional strain. Many whiplash victims develop anxiety, irritability, depression, or sleep disturbances. The constant discomfort, coupled with loss of physical ability, contributes to frustration and isolation. Psychological support and counseling are a must.
Can Whiplash Cause Neurological Problems?
Yes. Whiplash from a car crash absolutely has the potential to cause neurological problems. These neurological problems can occur when the sudden, forceful motion of the neck damages nerves, discs, or soft tissue around the cervical spine. The trauma can lead to nerve compression, inflammation, or impaired blood flow to the brain. Victims may experience numbness, tingling, weakness in the arms, dizziness, or blurred vision. In more serious cases, whiplash may trigger headaches, memory issues, or concentration difficulties consistent with mild traumatic brain injury. Neurological symptoms can appear days or weeks after the crash.
Whiplash Requires Immediate Medical Attention and Proper Ongoing Care
Whiplash requires immediate medical attention and proper ongoing care to prevent long-term complications. Even if pain seems mild, soft tissue and nerve injuries can worsen without early treatment. A doctor can order imaging, prescribe medication, and recommend physical therapy to reduce inflammation and restore movement. Follow-up care is equally important. Many victims experience lingering stiffness, headaches, or neurological symptoms that demand ongoing monitoring. Notably, medical records are key to any whiplash injury claim.
Recovering the Maximum Compensation for a Whiplash Injury
Suffer whiplash in a motor vehicle collision in Lexington, Mauldin, or elsewhere in South Carolina? You have the right to seek compensation for the full value of your damages, including for any non-economic losses. Do not trust any insurance company to look out for your best financial interests. They fight very aggressively to pay out as little as possible in settlement. Our South Carolina car crash lawyer for whiplash can help. You may be able to recover for:
- Vehicle repairs
- Emergency room care
- Hospital bills
- Other health care costs
- Lost wages
- Long-term loss of earnings
- Pain and suffering
- Long-term impairment
How Our South Carolina Car Accident Lawyer Can Help With a Whiplash Claim
If you are dealing with long-term whiplash symptoms, it is imperative that you have strong and experienced legal representation. At Smith & Jones Law, LLC, we are a boutique law firm that puts car accident victims first. Our case results tell the story. Do not let an insurance company pressure you into settling a whiplash claim for less. With a law office that is conveniently located in Lexington and another office that is conveniently located in Mauldin, our attorneys know both communities well. We know the roads, the doctors, the insurance companies, and the court. Our firm fights for victims in 29662, 29605, 29607, 29071, 29072, and beyond.
Contact Our Lexington Whiplash Injury Lawyer For a Free Case Review
At Smith & Jones Law, LLC, our Lexington car accident attorney takes on all types of whiplash cases. If you or your loved one suffered a serious whiplash injury in a crash, please contact us today for a free, no-obligation initial consultation. With offices in Lexington and Mauldin, we represent car accident victims all across the region, including in 29662, 29605, 29607, 29071, and 29072.