Legal Definitions - whiplash

Definition: Whiplash is a type of injury that affects the neck and back. It is often caused by car accidents, where the body is suddenly restrained (usually by a seatbelt), and the sudden stop causes the head to jerk, injuring the neck. Whiplash is an injury to the cervical spine caused by an abrupt jerking motion of the head.

Example: Sarah was in a car accident and experienced whiplash. Her head jerked forward and then backward quickly, causing her neck to strain and become painful.

Explanation: This example illustrates how whiplash can occur in a car accident. The sudden stop of the car causes the head to jerk, which can cause injury to the neck. Sarah's experience of pain and strain in her neck is a common symptom of whiplash.