Being involved in a car accident, particularly one that results in an injury, is not something that anyone plans for. Between slippery winter roads, deer that come out of nowhere, and a variety of other risks, the Minnesota roads can be dangerous.
The time after an accident can be stressful, but having a plan in mind to handle these unforeseen events is very important. Here are a few things to keep in mind if you suffer an injury in a car accident.
Call the police at the time of the accident
When you are at the scene of the accident, no matter how minor you think the accident is at the time, call the police. This will ensure the accident is documented properly with local law enforcement. When the police arrive be sure to describe to them how the accident happened in detail. For your records be sure to take pictures of the vehicles and exchange information with the other drivers involved.
Report the accident to your insurance company
As soon as you can, report the accident to your auto insurance provider. This will help you receive the compensation you deserve to help you deal with the repercussions of the accident. The other drivers involved in the accident likely will soon be reporting this to their insurance company as well, so you do not want to be delayed in making your report.
Reach out to a law office for help
Car accidents can quickly evolve into a wild “he said/she said” situation if the other drivers decide to pursue a legal battle against you. If your accident produces this type of situation you will want to seek help from a law office as soon as possible.
Choosing a great lawyer can be difficult on your own as there are many offices available to contact. Either research a law office that works heavily in auto accident cases or contact a law office that a family member or friend has had a positive experience with in the past.
Seek medical attention
On the day of your injury, you do not always recognize the pain that may have been caused by the accident. Because of this do not immediately assume you do not need to see a medical specialist. It is quite likely you will want to be checked out just in case.
What common symptoms occur after a car accident?
- Neck or back pain – neck pain could be whiplash, and back pain can range from all over, to just the upper, mid, or lower back.
- Headaches – could indicate a concussion.
- Hip pain – pain when walking, running, standing up or sitting down. Hip pain could be a minor injury like a muscle strain, but could also be more severe like a fracture or dislocated hip.
- Chest pains – pain when breathing, or contained to a certain area of the chest like your sternum or rib cages.
- Achey or stiff joints – this is a common feeling after an auto accident.
Who should you see for treatment after a car accident?
What type of provider you should see after a car accident (family practice or chiropractic) is heavily dependent on what type of injury you suffer. Our chiropractors are trained to provide auto accident recovery for the St. Cloud area. Together with our team of physical therapists, we are well equipt to be your primary recovery location.