Thousands of Ontarians hop on snowmobiles every winter to enjoy the fresh air and forest trails. But dozens of people have snowmobiling accidents every year, whiplash being one of the most common injuries.
Here are some tips for whiplash prevention and treatment, plus how to get compensated if you’re injured in a snowmobile accident.
WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT WHIPLASH
Whiplash is when the neck is suddenly jerked and then snaps back in the opposite direction, like a whip. If you crash into a snowbank or other obstacle, your neck jolts violently and whips back. The stress is compounded by the weight of your helmet.
WHIPLASH SYMPTOMS
The most common whiplash symptom is a sore, stiff neck, making it painful to turn your head. Headaches are another symptom, as is soreness in the shoulders, arms, upper back and upper chest. Symptoms typically don’t appear until two or three days, sometimes weeks, after the incident, making it difficult to determine the cause of the pain.
WHIPLASH TREATMENT
Several medical techniques can alleviate whiplash symptoms, including physiotherapy, chiropractic services, acupuncture, and massage. If your injury is severe, a foam cervical collar can keep your head and neck still while you recover. You may also need prescription pain medications, muscle relaxants or lidocaine injections.
PREVENT SNOWMOBILE ACCIDENTS AND WHIPLASH
The most common cause of snowmobile crashes is an impact with an obstacle like a snow-covered rock or tree stump. The next most prevalent cause is a collision between two snowmobiles. Others include hitting another vehicle and falling from the machine while driving. Following safe riding practices is the best way to prevent whiplash. To stay safe and injury-free, drive at reasonable speeds, avoid alcohol, wear a helmet, don’t ride in poor visibility, or dark conditions and keep to marked, groomed trails.
SNOWMOBILE ACCIDENT INJURY CLAIMS
If you’re injured in a snowmobile accident, take the following steps to ensure you have the evidence you need to get compensation from your insurance provider:
Seek immediate medical attention and keep all medical records
Request a copy of the incident report if the police were involved
Gather pictures or videos documenting the accident
Keep a journal detailing how the injuries have impacted your life
A personal injury lawyer can file an accident benefits claim on your behalf. The more information you can provide, the easier it’ll be to get compensation.
HAVE YOU BEEN INJURED IN A SNOWMOBILE ACCIDENT NEAR SAULT STE MARIE? CALL US NOW!
At Feifel Gualazzi, we offer affordable legal representation for no-fault accident benefits and other personal injuries. We’re located in Sault Ste. Marie and help clients across northern Ontario. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation with one of our experienced personal injury lawyers.