Following a car accident, there are several steps you should take according to Colorado’s Department of Motor Vehicles. You should make sure to exchange your insurance information and file an accident report to the police.
Another step to always take is to see a doctor. Many people feel completely fine after a collision because the crash was a minor fender bender. However, you will most likely experience a rush of adrenaline following a crash and may not realize your neck feels sore. Some injuries do not become readily apparent until weeks after the crash. For insurance purposes, you always want to see a doctor right after a crash to make sure there are no hidden injuries.
1. Traumatic brain injuries
Many people experience whiplash even if the cars travel at relatively low speeds. The sudden impact of the skull jerking forward and then backward, striking the headrest, can cause injuries in the brain, including concussions. It may take months for a person to realize he or she suffers from this condition. The most common symptoms include persistent headaches, blurry vision and loss of certain senses.
2. PTSD
Months after the incident, some people may experience the signs of post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety and depression. These mental health problems sometimes relate to a traumatic brain injury. The person may be unable to sit behind the wheel, even if the car is not in motion, without feeling general anxiety. A person may require psychological therapy to drive once again.
3. Herniated discs
In addition to injuring the brain, whiplash can also can also damage the tissue and ligaments in the neck and back. Sometimes the impact will result in a mild sprain. Other times, the force will cause a vertebra to rupture or move out of its normal position. This can result in extreme pain as well as a loss of control in your legs or arms.