Often after a car accident, victims confuse whiplash and concussion injuries because they both occur as a result of the impact and have overlapping symptoms. However, whiplash and a concussion are two entirely different injuries. When a car accident occurs, the forceful impact of vehicles colliding with each other causes a rapid forward and backward motion that causes severe strain on the neck. In addition, it causes the brain to violently collide with the skull. Whiplash impacts the neck and shoulder, while a concussion impacts the head. Moreover, many people confuse these injuries because they don’t realize that they can suffer either or both of these injuries as a result of an accident. It is critical to understand the differences between whiplash and concussions to ensure you receive proper medical care. In the unfortunate event that you or a loved one has suffered one or both of these injuries in a car accident as a result of another party’s negligence, contact an experienced Essex County Auto Accident Attorney who can help you navigate your legal options.
Is there a difference between whiplash and a concussion?
Despite typically occurring as a result of similar incidents and sharing certain symptoms, whiplash and a concussion are two different types of injury. Whiplash is considered a neck injury that typically causes those who suffer from it to lose their range of motion in their neck and shoulders. A concussion is classified as a mild traumatic brain injury (TBI). It is important to understand the differences between the symptoms as you may sustain both injuries simultaneously. Some of the overlapping symptoms include but are not limited to:
- Headaches
- Dizziness
- Loss of coordination
- Blurred vision
- Memory and concentration issues
- Nausea and vomiting
What should I do if I’m injured?
Following a car accident, certain types of injuries may not have immediate effects which is why it is imperative to seek immediate medical attention. Certain injuries such as whiplash and concussions often require medical devices to determine a proper diagnosis. Even if your injuries seem minor, it is vital to be examined by a medical professional to ensure your injuries are treated properly. In addition to seeking medical attention, if possible, after an accident you should collect pertinent evidence from the scene. This includes pictures, videos, and contact information from any witnesses who observed the events of the collision unfold. Most importantly, you should retain the legal services of a qualified Essex County auto accident attorney who can represent your interests in court to seek reasonable compensation for your damages.
If you have been injured in an auto accident as a result of negligence, it is in your best interest to consult with one of our determined and skilled attorneys. Our firm is committed to helping our clients get the justice they deserve.
