Soft tissue damage is a common injury faced by those involved in Oklahoma auto crashes. A collision and the sudden braking that follows can jolt the body back and forth to the point that the soft tissues (muscles, ligaments and tendons) stretch and become strained or even torn. Symptoms, which may appear hours or days after the accident, usually range from chronic pain to inflammation to bleeding. In some cases, victims have diminished motor functions.
Soft tissue injuries are difficult to detect through X-ray, so victims only have their symptoms to consider when determining whether they should see a doctor. If left untreated, the injury could hamper the healing process. Medical attention is crucial, especially when victims suffer from whiplash.
Whiplash occurs when the head snaps back — usually from a rear-end collision — and damages the tissues in the neck. Victims experience a burning sensation and shooting pains in the neck. The muscle joints may also become dysfunctional. Where there is severe, chronic pain, a herniated disc may be involved. The condition also causes memory loss, dizziness, headaches and increased anxiety, fatigue and depression.
When a car accident is clearly caused by the negligence of the other driver, the victim may have the grounds for an injury claim. Though soft tissue injuries may be difficult to detect and measure, an attorney could help document the facts.
A successful claim could cover past and future medical expenses, vehicle repair costs, lost wages and even emotional trauma. The attorney will first evaluate the claim and factor in any contributory negligence. Investigators can be brought in to flesh out the details. The attorney can then begin negotiations or litigation.
