The safety technology found in modern cars is simply amazing. Thanks to seat belts, airbags, and crumple-zones that absorb the force of an accident, people now walk away from car accidents that used to result in certain death. Despite these safety features, car accidents can still result in very serious injuries that are not always readily apparent. These injuries can be especially serious when they involve the head and neck.
If you’ve been in a car accident, the first thing for you to do is see your doctor, even if you feel fine. Your doctor can give you a thorough examination and explain the symptoms you need to watch out for. You may need to take a few days off of work, but the most important thing is that you focus on your health.
Recognizing Whiplash
Whiplash is the result of a strain of the neck muscles and damage to the surrounding soft tissues. It is caused by a sudden acceleration and deceleration of the head, such as what often occurs in a car accident. Whiplash is most common in rear-end accidents but can happen in other car accidents too. Generally speaking, whiplash occurs when the torso is moving in one direction, the head snaps back, and then violently whips forward. The forces involved are so strong that it can actually damage the spinal discs and cause nerve damage. Here are some of the common symptoms that indicate you may be suffering from whiplash:
- A persistent headache or neck pain
- Back pain
- Ringing in your ears or blurred vision
- Chest pain
- Pain or tingling in arms
- Jaw pain/TMJ
In addition, people suffering from whiplash often report difficulty sleeping and concentrating, and general fatigue. These symptoms may not present themselves right after the accident, and in some cases can come and go or vary in intensity.
The Dangers of a Concussion
We have started to take concussions much more seriously in the last few years than we had in the past. We now understand that concussions can result in very serious, long-term health problems. They are most often caused by a blow to the head, but they can also be caused by violent forces or shaking to the head or upper body. Some concussions involve the loss of consciousness, but others do not. Some people suffer from concussions and don’t even know it. Here are some common symptoms of a concussion:
- A headache or a feeling of pressure in your head
- Amnesia, especially if you don’t remember the event that caused the concussion
- Dizziness or “seeing stars”
- Nausea
- Confusion and difficulty thinking clearly
- Ringing in your ears
- Sensitivity to light and noise
Some symptoms can be very subtle – you may have difficulty sleeping or just don’t feel like yourself. The most important thing is to listen to your body and see your doctor if you think something isn’t right.
Contact an Atlanta Car Accident Attorney
The lawyers at Slappey & Sadd help accident victims in the Atlanta area and across the state of Georgia. If you’ve been injured in a car accident, we can help you understand your options and protect your rights. Call us at 404-255-6677 or send us an email in order to schedule a free consultation.