Being involved in a car accident can feel overwhelming and stressful. With years of experience in this industry, I’ve guided thousands of patients on what to do—and what to avoid—to ensure their recovery and peace of mind. Whether it’s seeking chiropractic car accident care or understanding recovery after a car accident, having the right guidance is key to regaining your health and well-being.
Even minor accidents can have lasting effects on your health, especially when it comes to your spine and overall well-being.
As your trusted chiropractor, I want to share the top 10 things you should do if you’ve been in a car accident to ensure your recovery and also your peace of mind.
Immediately check yourself and others in the car with you for injuries and move to a safe location if possible. Call emergency services if anyone is seriously hurt.
Report the accident to the police, even if the damage seems minor. An official report will be essential for insurance claims and legal matters. You also have the option to complete this report online for added convenience. Filing the police report within 72 hours is essential to ensure all details are accurately documented while still fresh in your memory, as delays can lead to forgotten or unclear information.
Collect the contact, insurance, and vehicle details from the other driver(s). Additionally, if there are any witnesses, be sure to gather their contact information. Witnesses play a critical role in supporting your case, as over time, details can become harder to recall accurately.
Take detailed photos of the vehicles, visible damages, injuries, and the accident location from multiple angles. These images will serve as critical evidence for insurance claims, legal proceedings, consultations with an accident attorney, or filing a Personal Injury Protection (PIP) claim.
Even if you feel fine, some injuries—like neck pain caused by whiplash, headaches, signs of a concussion, nausea, irritability (more than usual), lack of sleep, confusion, loss of directional awareness, blurred vision, loss of focus, and inability to stay on task (especially if you have ADD or ADHD)—may not show symptoms right away and can vary for up to one year after the accident. Visit a healthcare professional to ensure hidden injuries are identified early.
Car accidents frequently result in spinal misalignments, soft tissue injuries, and inflammation. Seeking chiropractic treatment for car accidents can effectively address these issues by realigning your spine, alleviating pain, and supporting your recovery. Consulting with an auto injury chiropractor ensures that your treatment is tailored to your specific needs for optimal healing. Additionally, consulting with an experienced accident attorney can help you navigate the complexities of legal procedures and ensure your rights are protected.
Contact your insurance provider immediately after the car accident to report the incident and initiate your Personal Injury Protection (PIP) claim. Ensure you provide all necessary documentation, as this is essential for covering chiropractic care, medical expenses, and ongoing treatments that support your recovery.
Maintain a journal of any pain, stiffness, or other symptoms that develop over time. This record will help guide your treatment plan. Symptoms may last or vary in severity for at least a year.
Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts by pressuring you to settle quickly after a car accident. Before accepting any offer, consult with your chiropractor, healthcare providers, and an experienced accident attorney to ensure your medical needs, including chiropractic care and long-term recovery, are fully addressed and covered by insurance.
Commit to following through with your treatment plan, whether it involves chiropractic care, physical therapy, or other modalities. Your health is your most valuable asset.
At The Wellness Center, we specialize in helping patients recover from auto injuries with personalized, gentle care. From addressing spinal misalignments to reducing pain through chiropractic car accident care, we focus on restoring your health. If you or someone you know has been in an accident, don’t wait—schedule an appointment today. Let The Wellness Center guide you through your auto injury recovery process and get you back on track.
Dr. Mark Gabriel
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