What is whiplash after a car accident?

Whiplash is a neck injury caused by a sudden back-and-forth motion, common in rear-end collisions. It can cause pain, stiffness, headaches, and other long-term symptoms.

Do I need a lawyer for a whiplash claim in Ashburn?

Yes. An experienced attorney can help you prove the injury, negotiate with insurance companies, and pursue full compensation for your medical bills and suffering.

What symptoms of whiplash should I watch for after a car accident?

Watch for neck pain, stiffness, headaches, dizziness, limited range of motion, or numbness in your arms. Some symptoms may be delayed by hours or days.

How long do I have to file a neck injury claim in Virginia?

In Virginia, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is typically two years from the date of the accident. It’s best to act quickly.

Can whiplash occur in a low-speed crash?

Yes. Even crashes at speeds under 10 mph can cause significant soft tissue damage, including whiplash, especially if you weren’t expecting the impact.

What if the insurance company says my injury is minor?

Insurance companies often downplay whiplash. Don’t accept a low offer without speaking to an attorney who can accurately assess the value of your claim.

What kind of doctor should I see for a neck injury?

Start with a primary care physician, then follow up with specialists like chiropractors, orthopedic doctors, or neurologists depending on your symptoms.

Can I get compensation for missed work due to my injury?

Yes. If your neck injury caused you to miss work or lose income, you may be able to recover lost wages as part of your personal injury claim.

How much is a whiplash case worth in Ashburn?

It depends on the severity of your injury, your medical costs, how long symptoms last, and the impact on your daily life. An attorney can estimate your claim’s value.

What should I do right after a rear-end collision?

Call 911, get checked by a medical professional, document the scene, exchange information, and contact a personal injury lawyer as soon as possible.

Is neck stiffness days after an accident still related to the crash?

Yes. Whiplash symptoms are often delayed. Just because pain didn’t start right away doesn’t mean it isn’t related to the crash.

Will my insurance cover my medical treatment for whiplash?

It depends on your policy and whether the at-fault driver’s insurance accepts liability. A lawyer can help ensure the responsible party pays for your care.

Can I file a claim even if I didn’t go to the ER right away?

Yes. While prompt medical care helps your case, delayed symptoms are common. Document your pain and see a doctor as soon as possible.

Do I need to live in Ashburn to file my claim there?

No. If the accident happened in Ashburn or Loudoun County, you can file your claim locally—even if you live outside the area.

How do I get help from Shin Law Office for my Ashburn accident?

You can schedule a free consultation at https://shinlawoffice.com/meet-our-team/contact/. We’ll review your case and explain your rights clearly and honestly.

Loudoun County Personal Injury

Neck Injury After a Car Accident in Ashburn: What You Need to Know

by ShinLaw

By Anthony I. Shin, Esq. | Personal Injury | Toxic Torts | Shin Law Office

Neck Injury Attorney Ashburn VA | Car Accident & Whiplash Claims

If you were rear-ended on Loudoun County Parkway and now your neck won’t stop hurting, you’re not alone.

I’ve worked with many clients in Ashburn, VA, who walked away from a car accident thinking they were fine, only to wake up the next morning with stiffness, pain, and limited movement.

That pain is often whiplash—a real and sometimes serious neck injury that doesn’t always show up right away.

Unfortunately, if you don’t take the proper steps early on, it can harm your health and your case.

What Is Whiplash?

Whiplash happens when your neck is violently jerked back and forth, like in a rear-end collision.

Even at low speeds, this motion can strain the muscles, tendons, and ligaments in your neck.

Some people feel the pain right away. Others don’t notice symptoms for hours or even days.

That delay is part of what makes whiplash so tricky.

Common signs of whiplash include:

Neck pain or stiffness
Headaches (especially at the base of the skull)
Shoulder or upper back pain
Dizziness or fatigue
Difficulty turning your head
Tingling or numbness in arms or hands

If you’re experiencing any of these, don’t ignore them—and don’t let the insurance company brush you off.

Rear-End Collisions in Ashburn Are Common—and Costly

Ashburn’s roads, especially Loudoun County Parkway, Route 7, and Claiborne Parkway, see their fair share of fender benders. But even a “minor” rear-end crash can cause lasting injuries, especially if you were caught off-guard, stopped at a light, or hit from behind with force.

I’ve seen too many cases where the other driver’s insurance company offers a quick, lowball settlement. Don’t take it. They’re hoping you’ll accept before you know the full extent of your injuries.

What You Should Do After a Neck Injury

If you’ve been in a car accident and your neck is hurting, here’s what I recommend:

See a doctor immediately. Even if symptoms are mild, it’s best to get checked out. Medical records are crucial for any claim.
Document everything. Take notes on your pain, your treatment, and how it affects your daily life.
Don’t speak to the insurance company without legal help. What you say can be used against you later.
Contact a local injury attorney. I’ve helped Ashburn clients navigate neck injury claims for years. I know how to deal with adjusters who downplay whiplash.