Can Low-Speed Accidents Still Cause Whiplash?

Posted on August 5, 2025

When it comes to car accidents, many people assume that serious injuries only happen during high-speed collisions. However, even accidents that occur at low speeds can result in significant physical trauma. One of the most common injuries in these situations is whiplash. Despite minimal vehicle damage, the sudden jolt of a low-speed crash can cause the head and neck to move abruptly, leading to pain, stiffness, and other symptoms that shouldn’t be ignored.
 

What Is Whiplash?

Whiplash is a neck injury caused by a rapid back-and-forth motion of the head, similar to the cracking of a whip. It commonly occurs in rear-end car accidents, but can also result from sports injuries, falls, or physical trauma. This abrupt motion can strain or tear the muscles, ligaments, and soft tissues of the neck and upper back.
 

How Can a Low-Speed Accident Cause Whiplash?

The human body is not designed to absorb the jolt that even a slow-moving vehicle can produce. At speeds as low as 5-10 mph, the force of impact can cause the head to snap forward and backward rapidly. The muscles and ligaments in the neck may not have time to brace, leading to strain and microtears that result in pain and inflammation.
 

Several factors can influence the severity of whiplash in low-speed accidents:
 

•          Position at impact: If your head is turned or you’re not expecting the collision, the risk increases.

•          Lack of headrest support: An improperly positioned or absent headrest can worsen the motion of the neck.

•          Previous injuries: Past neck or back issues may make you more susceptible to whiplash.

Common Symptoms of Whiplash

Symptoms of whiplash don’t always appear immediately. In fact, it may take hours or even days before discomfort sets in. Signs to watch for include:
 

•          Neck pain or stiffness

•          Headaches

•          Shoulder or upper back pain

•          Dizziness or fatigue

•          Limited range of motion in the neck

•          Tingling or numbness in the arms

If left untreated, whiplash can lead to chronic pain, reduced mobility, and long-term discomfort.
 

Why Early Chiropractic Care Is Crucial

Prompt chiropractic evaluation after an accident (no matter the speed) is crucial. At Accident and Injury Chiropractic, we specialize in identifying subtle injuries that might not show up on initial scans or X-rays. Using gentle, non-invasive techniques, our chiropractors focus on relieving pain, reducing inflammation, and restoring proper spinal alignment. By addressing the root of the problem early, we can help prevent long-term complications and support a faster recovery.
 

Start Your Recovery with Expert Chiropractic Care in Tacoma

Low-speed accidents may not cause major vehicle damage, but they can still have a significant impact on your health. Whiplash is a common injury that often goes unrecognized until symptoms worsen.
 

If you've been involved in any type of collision, schedule a consultation with Accident and Injury Chiropractic for a thorough evaluation and personalized care plan. Visit our office in Tacoma, Washington, or call (253) 215-8350 to book a consultation today.