How does whiplash occur?

Whiplash occurs when a sudden movement causes your neck to bend forcibly forwards and backwards (or vice versa) during a collision in which there is sudden acceleration or deceleration.  The entire sequence of this extension-flexion motion is completed within 0.5 seconds of vehicle impact.

Many of these injuries occur during contact sports, on rollercoasters, or as a result of rear-end car collisions (in fact, 85% of neck injuries caused by car accidents are the result of rear-end collisions.)

Injuries can even occur in low-speed rear-end collisions: starting from speeds as low as 8 km/h (5 miles/h). The severity increases accordingly as the level of speed increases.  Furthermore, the acceleration of the occupant’s head and body is about two times greater than the acceleration of the vehicle.

What are the symptoms?

Whiplash injuries can cause long-term pain and limitation of movement. The most common symptoms are neck pain and stiffness, shoulder and lower back pain, dizziness. Some symptoms may appear immediately after the accident, while other symptoms may take 12 hours to a few days to appear.

Reducing the risk of whiplash injury

• The car seat must be adjusted to the correct position so that the car’s safety features (such as the headrests) have the maximum benefit.
• The correct positioning of the car seat’s headrest plays a crucial role in reducing the risk of injury.  The distance between the headrest and the head must be no greater than 10mm (less than half an inch) and, ideally, less than 6 mm (a quarter of an inch).
• Wear your seatbelt correctly: it needs to be worn correctly across the shoulder and snug against the body. Specialized orthopaedic seat cushions can help to adjust your height and posture.
• Drive safely! Be alert and anticipate situations on the road. Speed and following distance are especially important: if you are driving too close to the car in front of you and you suddenly need to apply your brakes, the vehicle behind you may not have enough time so stop.