If you have recently been entangled in a car accident in New Mexico, the abrupt jerking motion of your head due to the impact, often known as whiplash, could be a shocking reality. These violent crashes can potentially result in death or may be the result of another driver’s negligence, causing damage beyond comprehension.
Aggravating the delicate tendons and tissues in your neck, whiplash is a soft tissue injury that can cause considerable pain and swelling, impacting your daily life and possibly leading to a disability, affecting your ability to work. Experts echo the importance of rest while recovering from such injuries.
Unfortunately, insurance adjusters often downplay the seriousness of whiplash injuries, making it challenging to receive the compensation you deserve. However, amid such complaints, options such as our services at Ornelas and Serna come to play. Specializing in personal injury law, our team of dedicated lawyers ensures that an investigation is carried out and your rightful compensation isn’t denied.
At Ornelas and Serna, we understand the struggles you are facing, and we are here to help. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the nature of whiplash injuries, their symptoms, available treatments, and how our experienced attorneys can assist you in obtaining the compensation you need to recover fully.
Understanding Whiplash: A Serious Injury
Whiplash indeed is not a minor condition to be dismissed lightly. Just like any other personal injury due to car accidents, it can have a significant impact on your life, resulting in medical expenses, loss of wages, and prolonged pain and suffering.
Regardless of the nature of your injury – be it a broken bone from the crash or a strained muscle, it is essential to recognize whiplash’s severity and its potential long-term consequences. Even the lawsuit brought against the defendant doesn’t easily prove whiplash, and insurance adjusters often argue this point. Nevertheless, you still have the right to pursue compensation for your injuries.
With appropriate medical documentation and a dedicated lawyer’s support at Ornelas and Serna, you can build a strong lawsuit for negligence against the defendant and hold the negligent party accountable for the crash.
Recognizing the Symptoms of Whiplash
Whiplash is a symptom-based injury, meaning that doctors diagnose it based on the symptoms and limitations reported by the patient. The following symptoms are commonly associated with whiplash:
1. Neck pain: Persistent neck pain, often accompanied by stiffness, reduced range of motion, and swelling of tissues are prevalent symptoms of whiplash.
2. Headache: Whiplash related to car accidents can cause frequent and intense headaches, making it difficult to concentrate or perform daily activities.
3. Dizziness: Many adults who suffer from whiplash after crashes experience dizziness or lightheadedness, which can significantly impact their quality of life.
4. Nausea: Whiplash-related nausea can occur as a result of the injury’s impact on the vestibular system, which is responsible for maintaining balance and spatial orientation.
5. Shoulder, jaw, and arm pain: Whiplash can radiate pain to other areas of the body, such as the shoulders, jaw, and arms.
6. Ringing in the ears: Tinnitus, or ringing in the ears, is a common symptom reported by whiplash victims.
7. Back pain: The forceful motion of the head during a car accident can strain the muscles and ligaments in the back, leading to persistent pain and discomfort.
8. Visual disturbances: Blurred vision or other visual disturbances may occur due to the impact on the neck and surrounding nerves.
It is important to note that whiplash from car accidents can also be associated with traumatic brain injury (TBI).The unexpected jolt of a vehicle collision can send a violent motion through your spine, causing the brain to collide with the inside of the skull and potentially resulting in a concussion. This is a serious health concern that needs immediate care and attention.
Seeking Medical Treatment for Whiplash
If you experience any of the symptoms mentioned above after a car crash, it is crucial to seek immediate medical attention. You should also undergo an evaluation for possible Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) along with whiplash. A knowledgeable doctor can answer any question you have about your condition and recommend appropriate pain management procedures, such as medication or chiropractic care.
After a car accident, when whiplash is suspected, it is imperative to get prompt medical attention. If the symptoms aren’t immediately apparent, a thorough examination by a medical professional can determine the extent of your injuries. Your treatment plan, depending on the severity of your condition, may include the following:
1. Medication: Pain relievers and anti-inflammatories may be prescribed to provide you pain relief from the symptoms associated with whiplash.
2. Physical therapy or chiropractic care: This, including exercises and massages, can help relieve pain, improve mobility, and promote healing.
3. Supportive devices: In some cases, a padded collar or neck brace may be recommended by a doctor to provide stability and support during the healing process.
The Role of an Attorney in Whiplash and Soft Tissue Injuries in New Mexico
It is essential to follow your healthcare provider’s recommendations and attend all scheduled appointments to maximize your chances of a full recovery. Remember that documenting your treatment and maintaining a record of medical expenses will be crucial for potential settlements in your personal injury claim.
A recent study concluded that people who keep a detailed record of their medical expenses are more likely to receive higher settlements than those who do not. This is because having a comprehensive record of all medical expenses associated with the injury can help to demonstrate the extent of the damages.To ensure you receive the compensation you deserve, it is advisable to seek the assistance of an experienced personal injury attorney.
At Ornelas and Serna, our attorneys have extensive experience handling whiplash and soft tissue injury cases. We understand the insurance companies’ tactics, intending to downplay the severity of your injuries and deny your claim. With our expertise and dedication, we can help you build a strong case.
1. Gathering evidence: Our team will collect and analyze all relevant evidence, including medical records, diagnostic tests, accident reports, and witness statements, to strengthen your claim.
2. Calculating damages: We will assess the full extent of your physical, emotional, and financial losses, ensuring you pursue fair and comprehensive compensation.
3. Negotiating with insurance companies: We manage all communication and negotiations, ensuring your rights are protected.
4. Litigating when necessary: If a fair settlement cannot be reached through negotiations, our experienced litigators are prepared to take your case to court and advocate for your rights in front of a judge and jury.
Contact Ornelas and Serna for a Free Case Evaluation
If you or a loved one has suffered whiplash or any other soft tissue injury in a car accident in New Mexico due to the negligence of another, do not hesitate to seek legal representation from a car accident lawyer.
At Call Serna, we offer a free case evaluation to assess the merits of your lawsuit and provide you with the guidance and support you need. Contact us online today or call us to schedule your free consultation. We are here to fight for your rights and help you obtain the compensation you deserve.