--- description: Experiencing dizziness after a car accident is one of the symptoms that can greatly impact an individual's life. title: Dizziness After a Car Accident - Can A Car Crash Make You Dizzy? --- Dizziness After a Car Accident - Can A Car Crash Make You Dizzy? # Dizziness After a Car Accident Last Updated: January 9, 2025 Reading Time: 7 minutes Trusted Content Legally Reviewed by Allan Siegel Updated 1 year ago [Home](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/) » [Our Videos](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/videos/) » [Practice Areas Videos](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/videos/practice-areas/) » [Car Accidents](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/videos/practice-areas/car-accidents/) » Dizziness After a Car Accident 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. 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"*" 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. ## Feeling Dizzy After a Car Crash Dizziness is one of many symptoms that can impact car accident victims. Experiencing dizziness can significantly impact an individual’s daily life following a car accident. It may affect their ability to perform routine tasks, such as driving, working, or even walking. This symptom can lead to a constant feeling of imbalance or disorientation, making it difficult to concentrate or maintain focus. Furthermore, dizziness can contribute to increased stress and anxiety, as individuals may worry about the persistence of their symptoms and the potential for underlying injuries. If you are suffering dizziness following a car accident and want to pursue compensation for your injuries, the[ car accident lawyers](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/car-accidents/) at Chaikin, Sherman, Cammara & Siegel law firm can help. Contact us for a[ free consultation](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/contact-us/) to learn more about your rights to pursue compensation. ## Causes of Dizziness After a Car Accident Several factors can contribute to dizziness following a car accident. - **Traumatic Brain Injury: **One common cause is a concussion or mild[ traumatic brain injury](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/car-accidents/brain-injuries/) (TBI), which occurs when the brain is jolted or shaken inside the skull. - **Whiplash:** Another potential cause is[ whiplash](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/car-accidents/whiplash-injury/), a neck injury that happens when the head is suddenly forced backward and then forward, straining the spine. - **Vestibular Damage:** Inner ear injuries, such as a ruptured eardrum or vestibular damage, can also lead to balance issues and dizziness. - **Emotional Stress: **Additionally,[ emotional stress and anxiety](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/car-accidents/trauma/) from the trauma of the accident may manifest as physical symptoms, including dizziness. ## Symptoms of Dizziness After a Car Accident Experiencing dizziness after a car accident can manifest in various ways. Common symptoms include: - **Lightheadedness:** a feeling of lightheadedness or faintness, often described as “seeing stars.” - **Balance Problems: **Balance problems and unsteadiness while walking or standing are also frequent indicators. - **Vertigo:** A spinning or whirling sensation, as if you or your surroundings are moving when they are not. - **Nausea:** A queasy feeling in your stomach, which may be accompanied by vomiting. - **Blurred Vision:** Some individuals may experience blurred vision or difficulty focusing. - **Disorientation:** Feeling confused or having trouble focusing on tasks. - **Fatigue:** An overwhelming sense of tiredness that can make it difficult to stay alert. These symptoms can be intermittent or constant and may vary in intensity. ## What is Vertigo? [Vertigo](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/car-accidents/vertigo/) is a specific type of dizziness characterized by the sensation that either you or your surroundings are spinning or moving, even when there is no actual movement. This sensation can be disorienting and may affect balance and coordination. Vertigo is typically caused by problems in the inner ear or brain, such as benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), Meniere’s disease, or vestibular neuritis. Symptoms of vertigo can include intense spinning, swaying, or tilting sensations, nausea, vomiting, sweating, and abnormal eye movements. In the context of a car accident, vertigo could be a result of inner ear damage or a head injury. ### Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV) BPPV is a common cause of vertigo, particularly after head trauma, such as might occur in a car accident. BPPV arises when tiny calcium carbonate crystals within the inner ear, known as otoconia, become dislodged from their usual location and migrate into the semicircular canals. These canals are responsible for detecting head rotation, and the presence of the displaced crystals can cause abnormal fluid movement, leading to the sensation of vertigo. ### Meniere’s Disease Meniere’s disease is another potential cause of vertigo, particularly following a traumatic event like a car accident. This chronic condition affects the inner ear, leading to episodes of vertigo, tinnitus (ringing in the ears), hearing loss, and a feeling of fullness or pressure in the ear. The exact cause of Meniere’s disease is not well understood, but it is believed to be related to abnormal fluid buildup in the inner ear. This can disrupt the normal balance and hearing signals sent to the brain, resulting in the symptoms mentioned above. ### Vestibular Neuritis Vestibular neuritis is an inflammation of the vestibular nerve, which connects the inner ear to the brain and plays a crucial role in maintaining balance. This condition can occur following a car accident, particularly if there has been a forceful impact or head trauma. ## Car Accident Injuries That Cause Vertigo ### Head Injuries [Head injuries](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/car-accidents/head-injuries/) sustained in a car accident can frequently lead to vertigo. Traumatic brain injury (TBI), even in its mild form known as a concussion, can disrupt the delicate balance systems located in the brain and inner ear. When the brain experiences a sudden jolt or impact, it can cause bruising, bleeding, or damage to neural pathways that are essential for maintaining equilibrium. This can result in dizziness and vertigo. ### Whiplash Injury Whiplash is another common injury from car accidents that can lead to vertigo. Whiplash occurs when the head is suddenly whipped back and forth due to the force of a collision. This can strain or injure the neck muscles and ligaments, as well as the joints and discs in the spinal column. Consequently, the nerves responsible for balance can be affected, leading to symptoms of vertigo and dizziness. ### Cervicogenic Dizziness Cervicogenic dizziness is another potential cause of vertigo after a car accident, specifically stemming from neck injuries. This condition arises when sensory information from neck movements and muscles miscommunicates with the inner ear and brain, causing imbalance and a sensation of spinning. Cervicogenic dizziness is often associated with neck pain and stiffness, and effective treatment usually involves physical therapy and exercises targeted at relieving neck tension. In all cases, it is crucial to seek prompt medical attention to diagnose the exact cause of vertigo following a car accident and to receive appropriate treatment. Addressing these issues early can significantly improve recovery outcomes and reduce the risk of long-term complications. ## Treatment for Dizziness and Vertigo Symptoms ### Medications The treatment of dizziness and vertigo symptoms often begins with medications to manage the immediate discomfort and associated symptoms. These medications might include antihistamines, such as meclizine, which can help control vertigo and nausea. Other possible medications include benzodiazepines like diazepam for more severe vertigo, antiemetics to manage nausea and vomiting, and steroids to reduce inflammation if an underlying inflammatory condition is identified. ### Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy (VRT) Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy (VRT) is a specialized form of physical therapy aimed at alleviating both dizziness and vertigo by promoting central nervous system compensation for inner ear deficits. VRT involves exercises designed to improve balance, gaze stability, and overall function. ### Canalith Repositioning Maneuvers Canalith repositioning maneuvers, such as the Epley maneuver, are specific techniques used to treat BPPV. These maneuvers involve a series of head and body movements that aim to guide the dislodged otoconia out of the semicircular canals and back to their proper location within the inner ear. These procedures are typically performed by a trained healthcare provider but can also be taught for home practice if recurrence of BPPV is a concern. ### Surgery In rare cases where conservative treatments are ineffective, surgical options may be considered. Surgeries for vertigo are generally aimed at relieving pressure in the inner ear or correcting structural abnormalities. For instance, labyrinthectomy or vestibular nerve section may be performed in severe cases of Meniere’s disease that do not respond to other treatments. These procedures carry risks and are typically considered only when the potential benefits outweigh these risks. ### Psychological Support Living with chronic dizziness and vertigo can significantly impact one’s mental health. Psychological support through counseling or cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can be beneficial for managing stress, anxiety, and depression associated with these conditions. Mindfulness and relaxation techniques can also help patients cope with the unpredictable nature of vertigo episodes. ## What To Do If I Feel Dizzy After a Car Accident? If you experience dizziness [after a car accident](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/car-accidents/what-to-do-after-a-car-accident/), it is crucial to take immediate and appropriate steps to ensure your safety and well-being. Here are the recommended actions: - **Seek Medical Attention Immediately**: Even if the dizziness seems mild, it is essential to [get evaluated by a doctor immediately](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/car-accidents/should-i-go-to-the-hospital-after-a-car-accident/). Dizziness can be a symptom of a more serious injury, such as a concussion or a neck injury, which requires timely diagnosis and medical treatment. - **Stay Safe**: If you are still at the accident scene and feel dizzy, try to stay seated or lie down to prevent falls or further injury. Do not attempt to drive yourself to the hospital; instead, request an ambulance or ask someone else to drive you. - **Monitor Your Symptoms**: Keep track of any additional symptoms that may arise, such as headaches, nausea, [blurred vision](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/car-accidents/eye-problems-after-car-accident/), or confusion. Documenting these will be helpful for your healthcare provider to understand the full extent of your condition. - **Limit Physical Activity**: Avoid strenuous activities until you have been thoroughly assessed and have received clearance from a medical professional. Engaging in physical exertion can worsen symptoms and prolong recovery. - **Follow Up with Specialists**: Depending on the initial evaluation, you may be referred to specialists such as a neurologist, an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) doctor, or a physical therapist for further diagnosis and treatment. - **Rest and Recover**: Give yourself ample time to rest. Your body needs time to heal, and pushing through dizziness can exacerbate your condition. - **Report the Accident**: Inform your insurance company and consult with an experienced car accident lawyer to understand your rights and potential compensation for medical expenses. Promptly addressing dizziness after a car accident can help mitigate more severe complications and promote a smoother recovery process. ## Chaikin, Sherman, Cammarata & Siegel: Committed to Car Accident Victims At Chaikin, Sherman, Cammarata & Siegel, we are deeply committed to advocating for auto accident victims. Our experienced team of personal injury lawyers understands the profound impact a car accident can have on your life, from physical injuries and emotional trauma to financial stress. We are dedicated to ensuring that our clients receive the justice and compensation they deserve. By providing individualized attention and leveraging our vast legal expertise, we work tirelessly to navigate the complexities of personal injury law, holding negligent parties accountable. If you or a loved one has been involved in a motor vehicle accident, you can rely on us to provide compassionate and comprehensive legal support throughout your recovery journey. Contact us today for a[ free consultation](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/contact-us/). [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. 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