Are Concussions and Whiplash the Same Injury?

Get A Free Consultation Today!

When someone is in a car accident or injured in a slip-and-fall, they may sustain several injuries. Some of the most common include whiplash and concussions. While these injuries share similar symptoms, they are different and require different treatments. If you were hurt due to another party’s negligence, you’ll want to keep reading to learn about the differences between concussions and whiplash to ensure you receive the proper medical care. You’ll discover how Monmouth County personal injury attorneys can help you navigate this complex matter.

How Are These Injuries Sustained?

Most commonly, people will get whiplash or concussions as a result of accidents like car crashes or slip-and-falls.

Concussions are sustained when the brain violently jolts against the side of the skull. A concussion is a mild form of traumatic brain injury. These commonly occur when someone is hit in the head or hits their head on an object, such as hitting their skull on the ground after a slip or on the interior of a car during a rear-end collision.

Whiplash, on the other hand, occurs when the neck moves back and forth in a quick and violent motion. Like concussions, these commonly happen during rear-end collisions due to the force propelling your head forwards and backward, inducing a neck injury.

What Are the Differences Between Concussions and Whiplash?

Though they share similarities, there are significant differences between whiplash and concussions.

The main symptoms of a concussion include:

  • Headache
  • Light sensitivity
  • Nausea
  • Diminished coordination
  • Confusion
  • Fatigue

Whiplash, on the other hand, is typically accompanied by the following symptoms:

  • Neck and shoulder pain
  • Numbness or tingling in the arms
  • Neck stiffness
  • Muscle spasms
  • Vision problems
  • Difficulty swallowing

Unfortunately, due to the similarities between how these injuries occur and the symptoms they present, many people assume they have one or the other. However, because they are separate injuries, someone involved in an accident may have both simultaneously. This makes it essential to receive the correct treatment and care as soon as possible to prevent further damage.

What Should I Do if Injured in an Accident?

If you sustain injuries due to a reckless driver, negligent property owner, or any other party, you may not know you are entitled to compensation for the harm you sustained. When someone is injured, they may experience high medical bills and loss of income because of their condition. They may also endure non-economic damages, like pain and suffering, due to the harm they underwent.

When you are injured, the most important thing you must do is contact an experienced attorney from the Wilton Law Firm as soon as possible. Our dedicated legal team will do everything possible to help you achieve the justice you deserve for the suffering you endured because of a concussion or whiplash. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation with one of our competent attorneys.