Whiplash Injuries: What Texas Drivers Need to Know
Whiplash Injuries: What Texas Drivers Need to Know
Whiplash injuries are common in car accidents, especially rear-end collisions. Although the injury may seem minor at first, it can cause lasting pain and mobility problems. If you suffered a whiplash injury in a Texas car accident, it’s important to understand how these injuries happen, what symptoms to watch for, and how to protect your legal rights.
At Universal Law Group, we help injured drivers and passengers take the next step after a crash. Our team understands Texas personal injury law and works to secure compensation for clients dealing with pain, time away from work, and expensive treatment.
What Is a Whiplash Injury?
Whiplash is a neck injury caused by a sudden forward-and-backward motion of the head, like the cracking of a whip. The force of a car accident—especially a rear-end collision—can stretch or tear the soft tissue in your neck.
Whiplash is classified as a soft tissue injury. It affects the muscles, tendons, and ligaments around the neck and shoulders. Though it may not show up on X-rays or scans, whiplash can cause real, lasting pain.
Common Causes of Whiplash
Rear-end collisions (most common cause)
Side-impact crashes
Sudden stops
High-speed crashes or rollovers
Even low-speed crashes (under 15 mph) can cause whiplash, depending on the angle and force of the impact.
Whiplash Symptoms to Watch For
Some symptoms appear right after the crash. Others develop in the hours or days that follow. Be aware of the following signs:
Neck pain or stiffness
Headaches at the base of the skull
Shoulder or upper back pain
Dizziness or fatigue
Numbness or tingling in the arms
Trouble concentrating or remembering
Difficulty sleeping
Always seek medical attention, even if symptoms seem mild. A medical record helps protect your injury claim and supports your case if symptoms worsen later.
How Doctors Diagnose Whiplash
Because whiplash is a soft tissue injury, it may not appear on imaging tests like X-rays or CT scans. Instead, diagnosis usually involves:
A physical exam
A review of symptoms
A discussion of the crash details
Range of motion tests
In some cases, doctors may order an MRI to rule out other injuries or complications. Early diagnosis is key to proper treatment and recovery.
Treatment and Recovery After Whiplash
Treatment depends on the severity of the injury. Most cases improve with time, but some people experience long-term issues that need ongoing care.
Common Treatment Options
Rest and ice in the first 24–72 hours
Over-the-counter or prescription pain relievers
Physical therapy to restore movement and strength
Gentle stretching or strengthening exercises
Chiropractic care or massage therapy
In serious cases, recovery can take months. Some victims report chronic neck pain, limited movement, or recurring headaches for years.
Can I Sue for a Whiplash Injury in Texas?
Yes. If another driver caused your accident, Texas law allows you to file a personal injury claim to recover compensation. This includes medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and long-term care.
To build a strong whiplash injury claim, your lawyer will need to show:
The other driver was negligent
Their negligence caused the crash
You suffered injuries as a result
Medical documentation is essential. Without it, the insurance company may argue your injury is minor or unrelated to the crash.
Proving a Whiplash Injury
Insurance adjusters often downplay whiplash injuries. To prove your claim, your attorney may gather:
Medical records and treatment notes
Doctor statements linking your injury to the crash
Testimony from physical therapists or specialists
Photographs of vehicle damage
Crash reports and witness statements
It helps to keep a daily journal of your pain levels, mobility issues, and how the injury affects your work or daily life. This can support a claim for pain and suffering damages.
How Much Is a Whiplash Injury Worth?
The value of a whiplash claim depends on the facts of the case, including:
Severity of the injury
Length of recovery
Medical expenses
Time missed from work
Long-term pain or limitations
In Texas, there’s no fixed amount for pain and suffering. A mild whiplash claim may settle for a few thousand dollars. Severe or chronic cases may result in much higher settlements.
Should I Hire a Lawyer for My Whiplash Injury?
Yes, a personal injury lawyer helps you protect your rights and avoid mistakes that could hurt your claim. Insurance companies often try to settle early or deny claims for soft tissue injuries. A lawyer can:
Gather evidence to support your case
Handle communication with the insurance company
Negotiate a fair settlement
Take your case to court, if needed
At Universal Law Group, we know how to fight for Texas drivers. Our team handles injury claims involving whiplash, concussions, back injuries, and more. We understand how to present your case and push for the compensation you deserve.
Why Choose Universal Law Group?
We’re a full-service Houston law firm with years of experience handling personal injury cases. We offer honest advice, fast communication, and aggressive representation. Whether you’re dealing with a whiplash injury or another type of crash-related harm, we provide:
Personalized legal service from start to finish
Clear, practical guidance at every step
Strong case preparation based on real evidence
Contingency fee representation — you don’t pay unless we win
If you have a problem, we have the solution. Let our team guide you through the legal process and help you get your life back on track.
Contact a Houston Whiplash Injury Lawyer Today
If you’ve suffered a whiplash injury in a Texas car accident, don’t wait. Get medical help right away, then speak with an attorney to understand your options. The sooner you act, the better your chance of recovering full compensation.
Call Universal Law Group today for a free consultation. We’ll review your case, explain your rights, and help you take the next step with confidence.