Depending on the severity and type of car accident you've been in, neck pain is one of the more common injuries people experience. Particularly for older clients or those with prior neck injuries, a car accident can cause significant pain that can linger for months or years. Typically caused by "whiplash" (the violent back and forth or side to side movement of the head when hit), injuries to vertebrae, ligaments and discs in the spine are common. 

In fact, one study found that neck injury associated with a motor vehicle collision is associated with a high rate of chronicity (i.e. the pain and/or injury does not heal within 6 months). Further, studies indicate that 50% of people continue to experience neck pain a year after the collision.

The liability insurance companies often rely on old data that suggests people with neck pain after a car accident should be symptom-free within 3 - 6 months. While that may be true for some accident victims, at least half continue to have the injury for much longer. 

Which is why, as explained in previous blog posts, the insurance companies try very hard to get injured people to settle their claims quickly. Because once you settle your case, you cannot come back down the road for more money, even if the injury remains or has gotten worse. 

We always recommend our clients get fully evaluated and receive all necessary treatment prior to trying to resolve their case. 

If you're still having neck pain months after a car accident, know you are not alone and are not imagining the pain. We strongly advise evaluation by orthopedic physicians who can properly diagnose and treat the injury. 

For any questions about how neck pain applies to a Colorado personal injury case, please contact us at 303-919-7777 for a free consultation.