Steps To Take Following A Car Accident | Austin Auto Accident Doctor

What Should I Do Following A Car Accident? 

In addition to the mental and financial stresses associated with a motor vehicle accident, physical injuries often develop. If you or a loved one has been in a car accident, we strongly recommend seeing a doctor or chiropractor specializing in car crashes as soon as you have been medically cleared to do so. 

Chiropractic care can be essential in the management of auto accident pain, and can prevent significant health complications down the road--pardon the pun! 

Print this up and Save it in your Glove Compartment. If you’re in an accident, refer to this guide immediately. 

Steps To Take Following A Car Accident 

Many car accidents leave you feeling shocked and disoriented. Here's what you need to do:

1. Call 911 immediately if you are seriously injured. 

2. Remember to move out of the way of busy traffic.

3. Exchange car insurance and contact information, including 

• Full name and contact information
• Insurance company and policy number
• Driver's license and license plate number
• Type, color and model of vehicle
• Location of accident

4. Get a police report

5. Document the accident. In order to help protect yourself, make sure to take the following steps:

• Identify the officers. Get the name and badge number of all officers.
• Ask the police officers where you can obtain a copy of the accident report. 
• Take pictures. Document the accident by taking pictures of your vehicle from different angles, showing the damage done to both cars. Take pictures of the other car's license plate, if possible.

6. Call your nearby chiropractor that accepts walk-in and same day appointments for treatment. You may not have pain immediately; however symptoms may occur hours or days later. Left untreated these injuries can lead to painful back, neck and spinal degenerative conditions in the future. 

Pain immediately indicates a more serious injury due to extensive ripping and tearing of muscles, tendons and ligaments. Over the next 72 hours, your injuries will continue to bleed and swell. This is part of the reason many people have delayed onset pain. Early detection and treatment is key to reduce future pain and disability. 

Most Common Auto Accident Injuries 

Anyone who is involved in a car accident is at risk for an acute injury. Some of the most common injuries that we treat includes: 

Pain in your back 

Neck pain, including whiplash 

Headaches 

Shoulder pain 

Impaired spinal alignment and mobility 

RELATED:

• Most Common Questions About Auto Accidents
• Are You Suffering From Whiplash Symptoms?

What is the Golden Hour and Why Is It So Important? 

Early treatment can reduce the pain and severity of injuries by up to 60 percent. Delayed treatment usually results in more swelling creating more scar tissue which is responsible for chronic pain. Studies show that 30-40 percent of people involved in accidents still suffer with chronic pain when left untreated. Treatment within the first hour can reduce swelling and pain significantly. 

Have You Been In An Auto Accident? See Your Nearby Chiropractor Today 

Car accidents are scary--but your recovery from an auto accident injury doesn't have to be! To schedule your appointment, call us today to book an appointment!