Neck Injuries After a Car Accident

A Los Angeles attorney can fight for the compensation you deserve

Neck pain is a common symptom after a car accident, but it is often misunderstood. You might feel a little sore or stiff at first and assume it’s no big deal. But neck injuries can be serious, long-lasting, and even life-changing if not properly diagnosed and treated.

If you’re dealing with neck pain after a crash in California, don’t brush it off. What you do next can impact both your health and your ability to recover compensation. The team of car accident attorneys at Oaks Law Firm can guide you through the legal process, connect you with trusted medical resources, and fight for the full compensation you’re entitled to.

“Excellent service! I’m very happy to have been represented by this firm. They were very aggressive in getting me a great settlement. Oaks Law Firm has my highest respect. I highly recommend them to anyone who needs a knowledgeable lawyer.” – Pedro A., ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

What to do if you have neck pain after a car accident

Neck pain after a car accident can seriously impact your daily life, whether it starts immediately or develops over time. What might feel like a minor ache could be a sign of a more serious injury. That’s why it’s so important to take your symptoms seriously and act quickly to protect your health and legal rights.

Here’s what to do if you have neck pain after a car accident:

  • Get medical attention: Always start with a proper diagnosis. Your doctor may order X-rays, MRIs, or CT scans to understand what’s going on.
  • Follow the treatment plan: This could include rest, physical therapy, pain management, or in some cases, more advanced care.
  • Document your symptoms: Keep a record of your pain levels, mobility issues, and how your injury affects your day-to-day life.
  • Talk to a car accident lawyer: A legal professional can help protect your rights and make sure you don’t get stuck with the bill for an injury that wasn’t your fault.

Common neck injuries from car accidents

Even a low-speed crash can put sudden, intense pressure on your neck. Neck pain after a car accident can be a sign of the following injuries:

  • Whiplash: Caused by the rapid back-and-forth motion of your head during impact. Symptoms may include pain, stiffness, headaches, and reduced range of motion.
  • Soft tissue damage: Strains and sprains affecting the muscles, ligaments, or tendons in the neck.
  • Herniated or bulging discs: The discs in your cervical spine can shift or rupture, irritating nearby nerves and causing pain, tingling, or weakness.
  • Cervical fractures: A more serious injury where one or more of the vertebrae in the neck are cracked or broken.
  • Pinched nerves: Often the result of inflammation or disc injury, leading to radiating pain in the shoulders, arms, or hands.

These injuries aren’t always immediately obvious. Some symptoms may take days or even weeks to appear.

More symptoms to look out for if you’re experiencing neck pain

Neck pain after a car accident may feel mild at first, but that doesn’t mean it should be ignored. In many cases, symptoms can slowly get worse or signal a more serious underlying injury. Pay attention to how your body responds in the hours and days after a crash. Watch out for the following symptoms:

  • Pain that gets worse over time
  • Tingling or numbness in your arms or hands
  • Headaches that start at the base of your skull
  • Difficulty turning or moving your head
  • Muscle spasms or tightness in the shoulders and upper back

If you experience any of these symptoms, see a doctor as soon as possible.

What damages can I recover for my car accident neck pain?

Neck injuries are often underestimated, but they can cause lasting pain, limited mobility, and major disruptions to your daily life. If your accident was caused by someone else’s negligence, you have the right to pursue compensation for your losses. Getting a fair settlement isn’t just about covering your current medical bills, it’s about making sure you’re taken care of long-term, especially if the pain doesn’t go away.

You may be able to recover compensation for the following damages:

  • Medical expenses (appointments, imaging, therapy, medications)
  • Lost wages if you had to miss work
  • Pain and suffering
  • Emotional distress or reduced quality of life
  • Ongoing care needs, if your injury becomes chronic

Even something that seems minor like whiplash can have a big impact. Don’t let the insurance company downplay your pain.

Do I need a car accident lawyer for my neck pain claim?

Neck pain is often invisible on the outside, which makes it an easy target for insurance companies trying to minimize your claim. That’s why you need an experienced car accident attorney on your side. Your attorney can help you by:

  • Gathering medical records and expert opinions to support your case
  • Proving how the injury affects your life and ability to work
  • Negotiating with the insurance company so you’re not pressured into accepting a lowball offer
  • Taking your case to court if needed

The right attorney helps level the playing field and ensures you’re not left paying out of pocket for someone else’s mistake.

Don’t wait to get help for your neck pain

Neck injuries can linger, worsen, or lead to long-term complications if they’re ignored. Whether you’re dealing with whiplash, a herniated disc, or shooting nerve pain, your health and your future deserve serious attention.

If your neck pain started after a car accident, Oaks Law Firm is here to help you every step of the way. Our experienced Los Angeles car accident lawyers know how to investigate your accident, gather strong evidence, and fight for the full compensation you deserve. We take your injury seriously, and we’ll work hard to make sure the insurance company does too.

Don’t try to push through the pain or handle the process alone. Get the care and legal support you need. Contact us today for a free consultation. We serve clients in the San Fernando Valley and surrounding areas.

FREE Case Consultation
Contact Us Today

-- select a location to view --