How Long Does Whiplash Last After A Car Accident?

Whiplash can occur in the immediate aftermath of a car accident, but it can also take time to develop. It's not uncommon for whiplash symptoms to have a delayed onset. The adrenaline and shock experienced at the time of the car accident can sometimes mask the initial symptoms.

As the body's natural responses to injury kick in, you may begin to notice whiplash-related symptoms hours or even days later. This is why it's crucial to seek prompt medical attention following a car accident, even if you don't immediately feel the effects of whiplash, as early diagnosis and treatment can lead to better outcomes.

How long does whiplash last after a car accident?

The whiplash recovery timeline after a car accident can vary. It depends on how bad the injury is, how soon you get treatment, and how well you stick with the treatment plan. In many cases, whiplash symptoms improve within a few weeks to a few months. However, some individuals may experience lingering symptoms for a more extended period. Here are some general guidelines for the duration of whiplash:

Acute whiplash refers to the symptoms right after a car accident. It usually gets better in a few weeks. During this time, people with whiplash often feel less pain and stiffness.

Symptoms of subacute whiplash last longer than the acute phase. However, they improve within a few months. In many cases, individuals experience significant relief during this period.

Untreated whiplash symptoms can worsen over time. This can lead to chronic whiplash symptoms, which occur when the injury doesn’t heal within the expected time frame. Despite initial treatment, some people continue to experience persistent pain, stiffness, and other whiplash symptoms for a prolonged period of time.

Chronic whiplash occurs when whiplash symptoms persist for a prolonged period. This is typically past the three-month expected whiplash recovery time. More severe initial injuries are more likely to lead to chronic symptoms. Plus, this can be caused by delays in treatment or insufficient rehabilitation. 

People with prior neck and back issues may be more susceptible to chronic whiplash. Plus, stress and anxiety can increase the chances of developing it. 

Symptoms of whiplash from rear-end collision

The symptoms of whiplash can vary in severity and may not always be immediately apparent. Common symptoms of whiplash from a rear-end collision include:

• Neck pain: Neck pain is a primary whiplash symptom. 
• Stiffness: Neck stiffness and reduced range of motion can make it challenging to turn the head or move the neck comfortably.
• Headaches: Whiplash-related headaches are common and may be tension-type or migraine-like.
• Radiating pain: Pain may radiate from the neck into the shoulders, arms, and upper back. This can be due to nerve compression or irritation.
• Tenderness: The neck and surrounding soft tissues may be tender to the touch.
• Muscle spasms: Muscles in the neck and upper back may go into spasms, causing additional pain and discomfort.
• Fatigue: Whiplash can cause fatigue, making it harder to concentrate or stay alert.
• Dizziness: You may experience dizziness or vertigo due to whiplash.
• Visual disturbances: Severe whiplash may cause blurred vision or difficulty focusing on objects.
• Ringing in the ears (tinnitus): Some people with whiplash experience ringing or buzzing in their ears.
• Sleep disturbances: Whiplash can result in insomnia or disrupted sleep patterns.

If you’re hit in a rear-end collision, it’s important to seek prompt medical care, even if you don’t yet have any whiplash symptoms. Getting prompt medical care can prevent your condition from getting worse. Plus, it helps establish a clear link between your whiplash injury and the car accident you were involved in. 

Also, keep a detailed record of your symptoms, such as when they started and how they progressed. Adhere to the treatment plan provided by your doctor and allow your body time to heal. You may need to undergo specific treatment, even for whiplash symptoms delayed. 

The most common auto injury treatment for whiplash includes: 

• Rest and activity modification. 
• Hot and cold therapy.
• Physical therapy.
• Over-the-counter or prescription pain medications. 
• Chiropractic care.
• Massage.

You can potentially recover damages for pain and suffering if you sustained whiplash in a car accident. However, unlike economic damages (medical bills or lost wages), pain and suffering are non-economic. You can only be eligible for these damages if you suffered physical pain and the injury impacted the quality of your life. 

It’s best to speak to an experienced pain and suffering lawyer. They can determine how much money you’re eligible for in pain and suffering damages and negotiate for fair compensation.

Whiplash claims are often complex and difficult to prove without a strong legal advocate on your side. Insurance companies will often dispute the validity of your injury or claim that your condition was pre-existing. They may also try to offer a lowball settlement that covers only a fraction of your damages.

A Law.com Premier Attorney won’t let the insurance companies take advantage of you. They’ll gather strong evidence in your favor and fight to recover every dollar owed to you. Hiring an attorney won’t cost you anything upfront. Since our verified attorneys operate on a contingency fee basis, they only get paid if you’re fully compensated. Contact a lawyer near you and schedule a free legal consultation.