What Are the “Grades” of Whiplash After a Car Accident in Manhattan?
Whiplash is probably the most common car accident injury in Manhattan. Each year, countless people experience whiplash after rear-end accidents. But while whiplash is a common injury for car accident survivors, it is also relatively complex. First, there are many “grades” of whiplash to consider. If you’re serious about filing a claim for your whiplash, you may want to consider how serious your specific case is.
Grade 1 Whiplash
Grade 1 whiplash is the least serious form. This type of injury is usually associated with pain, tenderness, and stiffness. The symptoms are relatively mild, and they shouldn’t interfere with a person’s ability to engage in normal daily activities. That being said, it is still important to see a doctor after suffering a mild form of whiplash.
Grade 2 Whiplash
With grade 2 whiplash, the pain is more severe. The victim may also experience higher levels of stiffness and a decreased range of motion. There may also be significant tenderness in the neck. Patients who experience grade 2 whiplash might exhibit musculoskeletal signs of injury. In other words, this type of whiplash can be detected by scans.
When a person experiences grade 2 whiplash, the pain may also radiate beyond their neck and into their head, face, shoulders, and back. Some people with grade 2 whiplash might also experience muscle spasms when they attempt to turn their neck. Finally, patients with grade 2 whiplash might exhibit bruising and swelling.
Grade 3 Whiplash
With grade 3 whiplash, the patient experiences neurological injuries. This is because the injury compresses or otherwise affects the nerves in the neck. As a result, patients with grade 3 whiplash may experience numbness, “pins and needles,” headaches, blurred vision, loss of voice, dizziness, and other issues. It is worth noting that these issues occur in addition to the symptoms of grade 1 and 2 whiplash.
Grade 4 Whiplash
Grade 4 whiplash is the most serious variant. It involves all of the symptoms associated with the previous grades of whiplash, but with greater severity. The neurological symptoms associated with grade 4 whiplash can be particularly difficult to handle. In some cases of grade 4 whiplash, the neck bones may also be fractured or out of alignment.
Can an Auto Accident Injury Lawyer in Manhattan Help After Whiplash?
An auto accident lawyer in Manhattan may be able to help those who have experienced whiplash. While only a doctor can determine your “grade” of whiplash, a legal professional can help you assess your options for compensation. Specifically, you should be able to access medical treatments and compensation for lost wages, regardless of how serious your specific case of whiplash is. Speak with Cohan Law, PLLC for more information.
Sources:
my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/11982-whiplash
mnphysiotherapy.ca/mva-wad-1-to-wad-4/