--- description: Whiplash is a condition that often results from a car accident. If left untreated, a whiplash injury can lead to long-term health problems. title: What Happens If Whiplash Goes Untreated? - Chaikin, Sherman, Cammarata & Siegel, P.C. --- What Happens If Whiplash Goes Untreated? - Chaikin, Sherman, Cammarata & Siegel, P.C. # What Happens If Whiplash Goes Untreated? Last Updated: September 4, 2024 Reading Time: 7 minutes Trusted Content Legally Reviewed by Allan Siegel Updated 2 years ago [Home](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/) » [Washington DC Car Accident Lawyer](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/car-accidents/) » [Whiplash Injury](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/car-accidents/whiplash-injury/) » What Happens If Whiplash Goes Untreated? What's On This Page [Case Results](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/case-results/) $18.8 Million Car Crash $2 Million Car Crash $1.9 Million Car Crash $1.37 Million Car Crash $1.1 Million Car Crash $1 Million Car Crash [View All Practice Areas](https://chaikinandsherman.com/practice-areas/) [Testimonials](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/blog/testimonials-hub/) They were adamant about getting me the best settlement. Torkwase Akinalana Car Accidents Proved to be the perfect advocate Michael Bizik Car Accidents I highly recommend the law firm of Chaikin, Sherman, Cammarata, and Siegel P.C. Anna Pastel-Powell Car Crash Mr. Siegel’s strong conviction, dedication, and determination prevailed in a legal victory. Gail Payne Car Accidents I knew I was in good hands once I stepped into their office. Gladys Ibeh Car Accidents They treated me like I was their only client, from beginning to end. Joy Lopez Car Accidents Contact Us Today! "*" indicates required fields Name* First Last Name* Last Email** Phone*Are you a new client?*Are you a new client? *Yes, I'm a potential new client.No, I'm a current existing client.I'm neitherCase TypeCase TypeMotor Vehicle AccidentSlip & FallAssaultMedical MalpracticeAbuseWork InjuryOtherWere You at Fault?Were You At Fault?NoYesUnknownWhere Did The Incident Occur?Where Did The Incident Occur?Washington, D.C.VirginiaMarylandOtherDid The Accident Occur In the Last Two Years?Did The Accident Occur In the Last Two Years?YesNoShare Brief Description of the Incident* Watch our attorneys explain how they fight for car accident victims across DC, Maryland, and Virginia. With over $1 billion recovered, our team knows how to build a winning case — from investigation through trial. Video Transcript **Speakers:** Ira Sherman, Joseph Cammarata, Stephen Ollar, Allan Siegel **Ira Sherman (00:02):** I would say that Chaikin, Sherman, Cammarata and Siegel has a completely different outlook on cases that other people think are garden variety automobile accidents, because to the person who is involved in that accident, that’s not garden variety, that’s altering their life. **Joseph Cammarata (00:21):** First of all, we don’t advertise. People come to us by word of mouth, either from defense lawyers, from insurance companies, from colleagues at the bar. They know that we have decades of experience in the personal injury field. They know that what we bring to bear is a group of lawyers that work and non-lawyers that work as a team to make sure we understand what the nature and the extent of the injury is. We make sure we understand and can express to a third party just what those injuries are, and we work to obtain the most compensation that we can for an individual. **Stephen Ollar (01:04):** What we do a lot of is discovery, not just discovery of the facts of the case, but discovery about insurance. It may be that the individual was operating the vehicle for an employer, and if they were acting with what we call the course and scope of their employment, then there could be potentially additional coverage that would cover a person for those injuries. **Allan Siegel (01:27):** We’ve been handling car accident cases since Don Chaikin founded this firm over 50 years ago. Since we spend a lot of time and we have a lot of those cases, we have developed a level of experience and knowledge that I think is very unique in our field. There aren’t many law firms who can say that they’ve been doing this type of work for over 50 years. **Ira Sherman (01:52):** I care enough to look to determine who this person is and how it affected them, and that takes up a lot of my conversation with our clients. [Whiplash is a condition](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/car-accidents/whiplash-injury/what-is-whiplash/) that often results from a car accident. It can cause a lot of pain and discomfort, and in some cases, an untreated [whiplash injury](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/car-accidents/whiplash-injury/) can lead to long-term health problems. If you are experiencing complications from whiplash due to someone else’s negligence, you are entitled to compensation for any medical treatment you receive for your injury. Contact an experienced personal injury lawyer with Chaikin, Sherman, Cammarata & Siegel, P.C. today for what steps to take next to recover compensation for costs related to your treatment. ## What is Whiplash? Whiplash is a soft tissue neck injury that occurs when the head is suddenly jerked forward or backward. This can [happen in car accidents](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/car-accidents/whiplash-from-a-car-accident/), sporting accidents, or even falls. The sudden movement can damage the muscles, ligaments, discs in the neck and the spine, causing extreme pain. ## Common Whiplash Symptoms The symptoms of whiplash don’t always manifest immediately. It’s not uncommon for victims to go days without noticing the signs of a neck strain injury. If you’ve been in an accident, it’s important to be [aware of these symptoms](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/car-accidents/whiplash-injury/what-does-whiplash-feel-like/) and seek medical attention if they occur. The most common [symptoms of whiplash](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/car-accidents/whiplash-injury/symptoms/) are: - [Neck pain](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/car-accidents/neck-pain-after-a-car-accident/) and stiffness - Worsening of pain with neck movement - [Loss of range of motion in the neck](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/car-accidents/neck-injuries/) - [Headaches](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/car-accidents/whiplash-injury/headaches/), most often starting at the base of the skull - Tenderness or pain in the shoulder, upper back, or arms - Tingling or numbness in the arms, hands, and fingers - Fatigue - [Dizziness](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/car-accidents/whiplash-injury/dizziness/) Whiplash doesn’t look the same for everyone. Some other [signs of whiplash](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/car-accidents/whiplash-injury/signs/) to look out for include: - Blurred vision - [Ringing in the ears](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/car-accidents/ringing-in-ears/) (tinnitus) - Sleep disturbances - Irritability - Difficulty concentrating - Memory problems - Muscle spasms If you have been in an auto accident and are experiencing any of the symptoms listed above, you should seek medical treatment. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are important to prevent further injury and improve your prognosis. ## Treatment for Whiplash Injuries [Treatment for whiplash](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/car-accidents/whiplash-injury/how-to-treat-whiplash/) depends on the severity of your symptoms. Common whiplash treatments include: - **Pain Medication – **The first step in treating a whiplash injury is to manage the pain. Your doctor may prescribe over-the-counter or prescription pain medication to help relieve pain in your neck, arms, or shoulders. - **Physical Therapy – **Physical therapy is a common treatment for whiplash injuries. Physical therapy can help to improve range of motion, flexibility, and strength. - **Exercise – **Your doctor may recommend specific exercises to help stretch and strengthen your neck muscles. - **Chiropractic Care – **Chiropractic care involves realigning the spine to relieve pressure on the nerves and improve blood flow. Chiropractors use various techniques, such as massage, manipulation, and adjustment, to help restore alignment and relieve pain. Chiropractic care can help to improve the range of motion in your neck and shoulders and reduce inflammation. - **Massage Therapy – **Massage therapy is a gentle form of massage that uses hands-on techniques to help relieve the pain of a neck strain. Massage therapy can help to improve blood circulation, reduce inflammation, and promote healing. ## How Long Does It Take to Recover From a Whiplash Injury? There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. The prognosis for whiplash [depends on the severity of your injury](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/car-accidents/whiplash-injury/how-long-does-whiplash-last/) and [how effectively you treat it](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/car-accidents/whiplash-injury/how-long-does-whiplash-take-to-heal/). In most cases, whiplash injuries can be treated successfully with pain medication, physical therapy, and other conservative treatments. ## Effects of Untreated Whiplash The longer that soft tissue injuries such as whiplash goes untreated, the longer the suffering and debilitating side effects can occur. Some untreated whiplash symptoms include: ### Chronic Pain Chronic neck pain is defined as neck pain that lasts for more than three months. It can be caused by several different things, including whiplash, arthritis, and herniated discs. Symptoms of chronic neck pain include: - Neck pain that doesn’t go away - Stiffness and limited range of motion in the neck - Chronic Headaches - Pain that radiates down the arms or legs If you’re experiencing chronic neck pain, it’s important to seek treatment to determine the cause. Treatment for chronic neck pain depends on the underlying condition but may include physical therapy and medication. ### Dizziness Dizziness is a feeling of lightheadedness or unsteadiness. It can be caused by several different things, including inner ear problems, low blood sugar, and dehydration. Symptoms of dizziness include: - Feeling lightheaded or off-balance - Feeling like the room is spinning - Nausea - Vomiting Dizziness can be a serious problem if it leads to falls or other accidents. ### Fatigue Fatigue is a feeling of tiredness or exhaustion that doesn’t go away with rest. It can be caused by many different things, including anemia, sleep disorders, and depression. Symptoms of fatigue include: - Feeling tired all the time - Difficulty concentrating - [Memory problems](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/car-accidents/can-whiplash-cause-neurological-problems/) - Irritability ### Numbness or Tingling in the Arms or Legs Numbness or tingling in the arms or legs is a symptom of nerve damage that can occur due to a whiplash injury. Symptoms of numbness or tingling include: - A feeling of pins and needles - Numbness - Loss of sensation - Weakness ### Degenerative Disc Disease Degenerative disc disease is a condition that causes the discs in the spine to break down. It can be caused by many different things, including aging, injury, and repetitive motion. Symptoms of degenerative disc disease include: - Back pain - Neck pain - Stiffness - Loss of flexibility ### Sleep Disturbances Sleep disturbance is common when initial whiplash pain is not addressed. It can also be a symptom of many different conditions, including sleep apnea, insomnia, and restless leg syndrome. Symptoms of sleep disturbance include: - Difficulty falling asleep - Waking up frequently during the night - Feeling tired during the day ## Can I File a Lawsuit for Untreated Whiplash? To determine whether you have a case, it is important to [speak with an experienced car accident lawyer](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/car-accidents/should-i-get-a-lawyer/) at Chaikin, Sherman, Cammarata & Siegel, P.C., who will review the facts of your situation and advise you on your best course of action. Our team is here to support accident victims. We will help you gather evidence to [support your claim](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/car-accidents/whiplash-injury/how-to-make-a-claim/) and negotiate with the other driver’s insurance company for fair compensation. ## What Chaikin, Sherman, Cammarata & Siegel, P.C. Can Do For You The [Washington, D.C. car accident lawyers](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/car-accidents/) at Chaikin, Sherman, Cammarata & Siegel, P.C. have a proven track record of success helping clients obtain the maximum compensation possible for injuries they have suffered due to the negligence of others. Our firm has consistently demonstrated we have the expertise needed to help our clients see that justice is served. We have the resources needed to conduct thorough investigations of all the circumstances contributing to a motor vehicle accident, gathering the evidence to establish liability and negligence. Chaikin, Sherman, Cammarata & Siegel, P.C. has achieved more than $500 million in verdicts and settlements, and our attorneys have more than a century of combined legal experience. Two of our partners are certified by the National Board of Trial Advocacy. Our firm has also earned the highest AV® Rating from Martindale-Hubbell®, one of the most respected attorney-ranking service organizations in the United States. Chaikin, Sherman, Cammarata & Siegel, P.C. attorneys work passionately on behalf of our clients to help them secure fair compensation – there is no type of case that is too complex for us to litigate. ## How Much is My Case Worth? [Many factors](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/car-accidents/factors-that-affect-the-value-of-your-case/) go into determining [the value of your case](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/blog/2016/02/what-is-the-value-of-my-case/). These include medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Our attorneys have experience evaluating cases just like yours to determine what they may be worth and will work hard to get you fair compensation for your injuries. Here are a few of our case results: - $6 million for a client who suffered a brain injury after being involved in a rear-end collision. - $4.8 million for a severely injured client after another vehicle struck his motorcycle. - $1.9 million for a client who suffered a permanent back injury due to a car accident. - $1.5 million for a client who had to undergo multiple surgeries after a negligent motorist cut off his motorcycle. - $1 million settlement obtained on behalf of our 19-year-old client who was a passenger in a car in which the driver lost control, causing a collision. As a result, our client suffered extensive brain damage with cognitive impairment. He was in a coma for an extended period of time. Although he has regained consciousness, he is unable to care for himself. The law firm asked the Court to appoint him a guardian to care for him. The law firm is helping to establish a special needs trust so that the proceeds from the settlement will be protected against any medical liens. - $1 million settlement on behalf of a client who suffered a brain injury when the driver of the car in which he was a passenger lost control of his vehicle. ## Contact an Accident Lawyer Today If you are looking for the highest level representation available for your personal injury case, turn to [Chaikin, Sherman, Cammarata & Siegel, P.C.](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/) Our firm has helped clients recover more than $500 million in compensation, and we have more than 100 years of combined experience. All of our partners are recognized by Washington, D.C. Super Lawyers®, and our firm includes three past presidents of the Trial Lawyers Association of Metropolitan Washington, D.C. We work to help our clients obtain fair settlement offers to compensate them for the injuries they’ve suffered, but our attorneys are extremely well-equipped to go to trial if needed. Call (202) 659-8600 or[ contact us online](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/contact-us/) to get the proven legal representation you deserve. [Watch Our Video Testimonials](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/blog/testimonials-hub/) Get free advice about the compensation you deserve. At Chaikin, Sherman, Cammarata & Siegel, P.C., our car accident attorneys fight tirelessly to secure the compensation you deserve, handling every aspect of your case to protect your rights. Trust us to stand by you and advocate aggressively on your behalf. Speak to a Specialist Visit Us in Person 1232 17th St NW Washington, DC 20036 The car accident lawyers at Chaikin, Sherman, Cammarata & Siegel, P.C. serve the entire Washington, D.C. metro area, including [Virginia](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/car-accidents/virginia/) ([Northern Virginia car accident cases](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/car-accidents/northern-virginia/), [Arlington](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/car-accidents/auto-accident-attorneys-in-arlington-va/), [Fairfax County auto accident claims](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/car-accidents/fairfax/), [Woodbridge](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/car-accidents/woodbridge-va/), [Manassas](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/car-accidents/manassas-va/), and [Alexandria](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/car-accidents/alexandria/)) and Maryland ([Bethesda](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/car-accidents/bethesda/), [Hyattsville](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/car-accidents/hyattsville/), [Rockville](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/car-accidents/rockville/), Lau Top 10 Mistakes Made After an Accident Review these common auto accident mistakes to protect your rights. READ OUR E-BOOK Meet Our Team Learn More About Us Ira Sherman Partner Licensed in Washington, D.C., Maryland, and New York With over four decades of courtroom experience, **Ira Sherman** is a powerhouse trial lawyer who has won justice for countless victims of serious injury, discrimination, and medical malpractice. Known for his relentless advocacy, compassion, and proven results, he’s the attorney clients trust when everything is on the line. Ira Sherman's Bio Joseph Cammarata Partner Licensed in Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Virginia A dual board-certified civil trial attorney, **Joseph Cammarata** is nationally recognized for his fierce advocacy, landmark legal victories, and relentless pursuit of justice for victims of serious injury, wrongful death, sexual assault, and civil rights violations. With wins against powerful opponents—including a historic U.S. Supreme Court case securing equal access to justice—he’s the attorney clients trust when they need skill, strength, and results that matter. Joe Cammarata's Bio Allan M. Siegel​ Partner Licensed in Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Virginia **Allan M. Siegel** is a board-certified trial attorney and partner at Chaikin, Sherman, Cammarata & Siegel, P.C., known for securing justice in serious personal injury, brain injury, and wrongful death cases. Recognized as one of Washington’s *Top 100 Super Lawyers®* and a *Best Lawyer®* in America, he combines strategic precision, courtroom skill, and relentless advocacy to win full and fair compensation for his clients. Allan Siegel's Bio Stephen Ollar Partner Licensed in Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Virginia **Stephen Ollar** is an award-winning trial attorney and U.S. Army veteran dedicated to holding negligent individuals and corporations accountable. Recognized as a *Super Lawyers Rising Star* from 2020–2025, he’s known for his tenacity, precision, and unwavering pursuit of justice in personal injury, auto accident, and medical malpractice cases. Stephen Ollar's Bio ## Related Articles Read More Blog Articles Why Some Insurance Companies Take Longer to Settle After a Car Accident in Washington, DC Washington, DC Tint Laws Why Insurance Companies Lowball Car Accident Settlements in Washington, DC Economic VS Non-Economic Damages In Washington, DC Car Accident Cases How Speeding Affects Liability In a Washington, DC Car Accident Case Car Accident Lawyer Arlington, VA Should You Talk To the Other Person’s Insurance Company? 100 Deadliest Days of Summer How To Deal With Insurance Adjusters [](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/blog/2021/12/liability-and-umbrella-insurance-protects-you-and-your-family/) Brain Injury Liability and Umbrella Insurance Protects You and Your Family As we enter a new year, it is the perfect opportunity to take stock of Read More » 12/16/2021 [](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/blog/2021/08/the-courts-have-reopened-and-the-doors-are-wider-than-ever/) Car Accidents The Courts Have Reopened and the Doors are Wider Than Ever For months, the coronavirus pandemic practically shut down the courts in the District of Columbia, Read More » 08/25/2021 [](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/blog/2021/08/law-firm-receives-super-lawyers-awards-for-11th-consecutive-year/) Car Accidents Law Firm Receives Super Lawyers Awards for 11th Consecutive Year The 2021 Washington, DC Super Lawyers® annual list of “Top Lawyers” was recently featured in Read More » 08/25/2021 [](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/blog/2021/08/school-bus-safety/) Bus Accidents School Bus Safety There are more than 471,000 school buses on the roads every day. School bus safety Read More » 08/18/2021