Just Involved in a Car Accident? Take These Steps Immediately

In the minutes after a car accident, the shock may make it hard to focus on what shape your body is in. Even if you’re not seriously hurt, you should do a few things as soon as possible to prevent your health and finances from suffering in the months and years to come.

At CHOICE Pain & Rehabilitation Center, with multiple locations in Maryland and Delaware, our specialists can evaluate you immediately after a car accident. 

We can assess the extent of any injuries (such as cervical/spinal injury due to whiplash), lay out a treatment plan, and document your injuries for insurance purposes.

In the moments after the crash …

Right after an accident, emotions run high. You may feel scared, angry, horrified, or irrationally calm. All are normal reactions. However, put those feelings aside and follow these four steps.

1. Seek emergency medical care if needed

If any party in any vehicle or passerby is injured, get medical help as quickly as possible. Calling 911 needs to be your first step if anyone appears hurt.

2. Call the police

Some people think it’s overkill to call the police for a minor fender bender, but you need a police report for your auto insurance. Calling them can ensure you get accurate information from the other driver(s). 

3. Exchange information

Get the personal and insurance information from everyone else involved in the accident and from any witnesses. This information can be critical if there’s a dispute later.

4. Schedule a complete medical evaluation

Whether or not you received medical attention at the scene or an ER, make an appointment for a complete evaluation as soon as possible. Many injuries don’t show up right away due to adrenaline in your system masking symptoms like stiffness or pain. 

We can perform an exhaustive examination to see if you’ve suffered an injury.

Why it’s critical to see a doctor right away after an accident

Failing to recognize and document an injury as soon as possible can impact your life in several ways.

Ongoing pain and loss of mobility

Your back and neck are uniquely vulnerable during a car accident. If your car is involved in a collision that results in a fast stop, even at a slow speed, your spine can snap back and forth quickly, causing whiplash or a herniated disc.

Left untreated, these conditions can gradually worsen and damage your spine. You could end up with a chronic pain condition that causes years of discomfort, all because you didn’t get medical care right after the injury occurred.

Financial losses

It can cost you if you don’t find out about an injury for several weeks or months after the accident. Your insurance company might accept a settlement that doesn’t cover medical treatment or pain and suffering resulting from the accident. 

In short, you could wind up paying for your own medical treatment to the tune of thousands of dollars.

If you’ve been in a car accident, don’t delay. Schedule an appointment at CHOICE Pain & Rehabilitation Center today by calling a location near you, or request an appointment online.