Whiplash is a type of Soft Tissue Injury which affects the neck, back and shoulders, usually after the head has been jolted forwards (hyperflexion) or backwards (hyperextension) causing a sudden extension of the neck muscles. It affects 20% of passengers in Road Traffic Accidents. This hyperflexion and hyperextension can be quite violent, and whiplash injuries can vary in how severe they are. The mildest forms of whiplash often consist of stiffness, mild headaches, discomfort and some restricted movement, while in the most extreme cases whiplash can cause long-term disability and the need for surgery. In 10% of car accident induced whiplash injuries, it causes long-term disability.
Whiplash injuries happen after Rear End Collisions. Even though the passengers of the car behind could suffer from similar injuries, technically they would not be classed as whiplash. Whiplash can even occur if the accident happened at a low speed – it doesn’t necessarily have to be a high speed impact to cause severe whiplash.
If you have suffered whiplash as part of your personal injury, then call our Specialist Advice Centre on 0844 854 5090.