Whiplash Injury: 5 Unknown (But True) Facts

For years, the insurance industry has downplayed the seriousness of whiplash injuries. While it is true that this type of injury cannot be proven with X-rays or CT scans, it can nevertheless lead to potentially debilitating consequences for the person suffering. Our auto accident lawyer notes that whiplash injuries are not limited to car accidents alone. There are reports of these injuries suffered during roller-coaster rides as well as sports activities. Case in point: Rusty Klesla of the Phoenix Coyotes. This professional hockey player suffered a whiplash injury alongside a concussion in a preseason game against Los Angeles.

Physicians and other experts have looked further into the reports of whiplash and have unearthed a number of fascinating facts that are still largely unknown to the average American.

Auto Accident Lawyer | Unknown & True Facts About Whiplash

It Can Cause Hypothyroidism

Researchers at the Spine Research Institute of San Diego (SRISD) discovered that there is a relationship between whiplash trauma and the onset of hypothyroidism. Connecting whiplash with an injury to central tissues, the experts warn that this form of hypothyroidism is atypical. Furthermore, it cannot always be identified with standard tests. However, they call for a combination of tests and lab analysis.

Institutional Bias May Prevent Proper Care

Taking a closer look at the data used by the Quebec Task Force on Whiplash-Associated Disorders, the experts found that institutional bias colored the interpretation of data.

Rear Vehicle Impacts Carry the Highest Risk for Whiplash Injuries

Human testing has shown that frontal crashes carried a “monophasic occupant kinematic.” Our auto accident lawyer reports that this results in a lowered risk for whiplash injuries. Rear impacts, on the other hand, carry a much higher risk. This is because of the more complex crash mechanics and resulting involuntary movements. Speed, vehicle type, and brand did not factor in as much as the kind of impact the motorist and passengers experience.

Rear Crashes Resulting in Whiplash are Common

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that there are 210,921 rear-end crashes resulting in whiplash injuries.

Young Women and the Elderly are High-Risk Groups

The Whiplash Prevention Campaign outlines that due to reduced neck musculature, young women’s necks make them more susceptible to whiplash injuries. Another high-risk group includes the elderly, particularly if they suffer from neck arthritis.

Do you have neck pain that will not go away? Have you been in a car accident or experienced another event that led to the sudden distortion of your neck? Do you suffer headaches or dizziness? If so, you may be experiencing conditions that could point to trauma.

If you or a loved one are suffering from injuries due to an accident, contact an auto accident lawyer today. Consultations are free!