Just Had a Car Accident? Do THIS Immediately to Protect Yourself

What to Do After a Car Accident

Stay Calm. Stay Safe. Take These Steps.

Car accidents are stressful, unexpected, and overwhelming—but what you do in the minutes and days afterward can protect your health, your legal rights, and your injury claim.

At Brighter Health, we specialize in evaluating and treating auto accident injuries. Here’s what you need to do immediately after a crash.

1. Check for Injuries

Your safety comes first. After the impact:

• Check yourself and passengers for pain, bleeding, or difficulty moving.

• If anyone is seriously injured, call 911 immediately.

• Do not move someone who may have a neck or back injury unless there is danger.

Even if symptoms seem mild, injuries can appear hours or days later.

2. Call 911

A police report is critical for insurance and legal purposes.Always request an officer to come to the scene—even for minor crashes.

Why it matters:

• Documents who was involved

• Provides an official accident report

• Helps determine fault

• Supports your future injury claim

Never skip this step.

3. Move to a Safe Area

If you can, move your vehicle out of traffic. Turn on hazard lights.If the car is disabled, stay inside with your seatbelt on until help arrives.

4. Exchange Information

Get the following from the other driver(s):

• Name and contact information

• Driver’s license number

• Vehicle make, model, and plate number

• Insurance company and policy number

Take photos of documents when possible.

5. Document the Scene

Use your phone to capture:

• Vehicle damage

• Road conditions

• Skid marks

• Traffic signs

• Location of impact

• Your physical injuries (if visible)

More documentation = stronger evidence for your claim.

6. Avoid Admitting Fault

Do not say “I’m sorry,” “It was my fault,” or speculate about what happened.

Let the police and insurance companies determine fault based on facts.

7. Seek Medical Care Immediately

This is one of the most important steps.

Symptoms like whiplash, concussion, soft tissue injuries, and nerve damage can take days to appear. Insurance companies often deny claims when there is delayed treatment, assuming injuries were not serious.

At Brighter Health, we offer:

• Same-day and next-day appointments

• Full diagnostic evaluation

• X-rays and imaging

• Personalized treatment plans

• Attorney-ready documentation

Early evaluation protects both your health and your case.

8. Notify Your Insurance Company

Report the accident as soon as possible, even if you are not at fault.Provide factual information—avoid guessing or giving unnecessary details.

9. Keep Detailed Records

Save everything related to the accident:

• Medical bills & treatment notes

• Police report

• Photos & videos

• Lost wages

• Communication with insurance companies

Bring these items to your medical or legal appointments.

10. Consider Speaking With a Personal Injury Attorney

If you were injured, consulting an attorney can help you:

• Understand your rights

• Deal with insurance companies

• Protect your medical claim

• Pursue compensation for damages

If you don’t have an attorney, we can refer you to trusted local partners.

When to Seek Medical Care After a Car Accident

You should be evaluated immediately if you experience:

• Neck or back pain

• Headaches

• Dizziness or confusion

• Arm or leg pain

• Tingling or numbness

• Stiffness or limited movement

• Chest, shoulder, or knee pain

• Any symptom that gets worse over time

Even mild symptoms can hide serious injuries.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need medical treatment even if I feel fine?

Yes. Many injuries are hidden in the first 24–72 hours.

Can you treat me if I already have an attorney?

Absolutely—we work directly with your attorney.

Will I have to pay out of pocket?

For qualifying cases, treatment may be covered under a Letter of Protection (LOP).

Do you provide documentation for my claim?

Yes. We provide detailed notes, imaging, and reports accepted by insurance companies and attorneys.

Get Checked After Your Accident

If you’ve been in a car accident, don’t wait for symptoms to get worse.

Call Brighter Health at

770-559-3186

Schedule your personal injury evaluation today

Your health comes first. We’ll handle the rest.