Many factors determine the severity of a car accident and the potential injuries. However, some injuries are more likely depending on the location of the collision. For example, whiplash injuries to the neck are more likely if the vehicle is rear-ended.
Whiplash occurs when the head is pushed forward and then backward very quickly. In rear-end accidents, this is exactly what occurs to people wearing seatbelts.
They are pushed forward by the initial impact and then forced backward very quickly due to the restraint from the seatbelt.
Symptoms and timing of whiplash injuries
Whiplash can cause a number of different problems for the victims.
They may experience stiffness and a limited range of motion in their neck. They may also experience headaches, muscle spasms, fatigue, dizziness, problems sleeping, blurry vision, trouble concentrating and perhaps memory issues and many other symptoms.
It is important that the injured receive the proper treatment for these symptoms as soon as possible. However, one unique aspect of whiplash injuries is that it may take days or even weeks for people to experience all of the symptoms.
It is rare that people will immediately experience the symptoms. This means that it can take some time for people to understand all of the medical treatment that they will need for the whiplash injury.
Usually, the driver who hit the back of another car in Georgia is at fault for the accident. That means that they will be liable for compensating the victims of the accident.
The at-fault driver may need to compensate the victim, but it is important that victims do not accept an early settlement offer. They may not know the full extent of the injuries and damages until some time after the accident.
Experienced attorneys understand how to ensure victims receive the full compensation for all of their damages and may be able to guide people through the process.