Rear-end auto accidents are estimated to occur every 17 seconds in the United States. Most often injuries from these types of car crashes are neck strains and sprains.
Rear-end impact is most likely to cause injury to the neck, since the back and lumbar spine are protected by the seat and the seat belt. When a headrest is present and adjusted appropriately, the head rest can help to decrease the risk of neck injury.
Neck Injuries Can Occur in Low-Speed Crashes as well as High Speed Crashes
Neck injuries such as hyperextension/hyperflexion, myofascial injury, neck sprain, and cervical strain can be caused by many different traumatic events. Some are caused by car and truck accidents that don’t involve rear impact, contact sports such as soccer, hockey, and football, or even slip and fall accidents. The neck and spine is especially susceptible to injury if the victim is taken by surprise and is not braced for impact.
Neck Injuries can be Difficult to Diagnose
Because there are no outward signs of injury, many people mistakenly believe that the victims’ injuries are “all in their head”. Even though the injury has occurred to “soft tissue” that does not mean that the injury is not serious. Neck injuries that are left untreated can have painful long term complications for the patient. It is very important to seek medical care if a victim suspects a neck injury after a car accident.
Symptoms of Neck Injury
- headache
- dizziness
- blurred vision
- shoulder, arm, and/or back pain
- tingling in arms or back
- numbness in shoulders, arms, or back
- neck pain and stiffness
- fatigue
- trouble concentrating
- cognitive difficulties consistent with TBI (traumatic brain injury)
Tips for Protecting Your Neck and Spine in a Rear-End Crash
- Position your headrest. The top of the headrest should be as least as high as the top of your ears and be very close, no less than 3 inches away from your head.
- Sit upright so that your head is positioned in the center of the head restraint. Leaning to one side will make it impossible for the head rest to protect you in a crash.
- Always wear a seatbelt to prevent injury from any type of car accident.
- Keep a safe distance from the car in front of you. If the driver in front of you stops suddenly, you will have to do the same and the person behind may not be able to stop.
- Brace for impact. If you see that someone is about to hit you or you hear brakes squealing behind you, lean back so that your head is touching the headrest and look forward.
- Do your research and buy a car with good rear-crash ratings for both front and back seat passengers.
Find a Lawyer in Roanoke to Help You
If you or someone you love has been injured in a car or truck accident, call Paul Thomson of The Thomson Law Firm today for a free consultation. An intake specialist is available to talk to you now and answer questions that you have about your car accident case. Call (540) 777-4900.
