Immediate Care After Your Accident
A complete guide to protecting your health and your legal rights. From the scene of the accident to recovery, we'll help you take the right steps at every stage.
The first few minutes and hours after an accident are critical. Here's exactly what you should do.
First, check yourself and any passengers for visible injuries. If anyone is injured or experiencing severe pain, call 911 immediately. Don't move anyone with potential spinal injuries. Even if you feel fine, some injuries don't show symptoms immediately.
If possible and safe, move vehicles out of traffic to prevent additional accidents. Turn on hazard lights. If you can't move the vehicle safely, stay inside with your seatbelt on and wait for emergency responders. Turn off engines to prevent fires.
Always call the police to file a report, even for minor accidents. Get the police report number and the officer's name and badge number. The police report is crucial documentation for your insurance claim and any legal proceedings. Don't admit fault or apologize for the accident.
Take photos and videos of all vehicle damage, the accident scene, road conditions, traffic signs, and weather. Take pictures from multiple angles. If there are skid marks or debris, photograph those too. These images provide valuable evidence for your claim.
Get the other driver's name, phone number, address, email, driver's license number, vehicle make/model/year, license plate number, and insurance information. Also get the names and contact information of any witnesses. Write down the time, location, and weather conditions.
Contact your insurance company within 24 hours. Provide them with the police report number and basic accident information. Don't give them a recorded statement without consulting an attorney first. Stick to the facts and avoid speculation.
Don't wait for symptoms to appear. Here's what you need to know about post-accident medical care.
Many car accident injuries don't show symptoms immediately. Whiplash, back injuries, and head injuries can develop over hours or days. Getting evaluated right away creates a medical record that links your injuries to the accident, which is crucial for your insurance claim and any legal case. Early treatment also improves your recovery outcomes.
At Oakland Accident Care, we specialize in comprehensive evaluations for accident victims. We document everything thoroughly so you have the evidence you need to get fair compensation for your injuries.
Specialized treatment for accident injuries that doctors often miss.
Chiropractors specialize in musculoskeletal injuries from accidents. We understand the unique mechanisms of car accident injuries and provide targeted treatment for whiplash, spinal misalignments, and soft tissue damage that emergency rooms often overlook.
We maintain detailed records of your injuries, treatment, and progress. This documentation is essential for insurance claims and any legal proceedings. We document everything thoroughly so you have strong evidence for your case.
Early chiropractic treatment prevents acute injuries from becoming chronic conditions. Untreated whiplash and spinal injuries can cause pain and dysfunction for years. Proper treatment now saves you from long-term suffering and disability.
Patients who receive immediate chiropractic care recover faster than those who delay treatment. We use proven techniques to reduce pain, restore mobility, and get you back to your normal activities quickly.
Chiropractic care is non-surgical and doesn't involve prescription medications. We use manual adjustments, physical therapy, and other proven techniques to treat your injuries naturally without the risks of surgery or drug dependency.
Strong medical documentation from chiropractic treatment increases your settlement value. Insurance companies take documented injuries seriously. Our detailed records demonstrate the full extent of your injuries and justify higher compensation.
Important information for accident victims in Oakland, California.
Non-Emergency: (510) 238-3000
Always file a police report for any accident. The report provides crucial documentation for your insurance claim and legal case. Get the report number and officer information.
Minimum coverage: 15/30/5 (bodily injury/property damage)
California is a comparative negligence state. Even if you're partially at fault, you may still recover damages. Consult with an attorney about your specific situation.
Personal injury claims: 2 years from date of accident
Don't delay filing your claim. The sooner you document your injuries and begin treatment, the stronger your case will be. Time is critical.
Many personal injury attorneys work on contingency
Consider consulting with a personal injury attorney to protect your rights. Many offer free consultations and work on contingency, meaning they only get paid if you win your case.
Real stories from Oakland residents who recovered from accident injuries with our help.
Rear-End Collision
"I was in a rear-end accident and didn't think I was hurt. Dr. Ben caught injuries I didn't even know I had and got me started on treatment right away. The detailed documentation he provided helped me get a fair settlement. Highly recommend!"
Multi-Vehicle Accident
"After my multi-car accident, I was in so much pain I could barely move. Dr. Ben's treatment plan was exactly what I needed. He explained everything clearly and kept me informed every step of the way. I'm back to normal now!"
Side-Impact Collision
"I was worried about long-term effects from my accident. Oakland Accident Care provided comprehensive care and documentation that my attorney said was perfect for my case. Excellent service and genuine care!"
Common questions about what to do after a car accident.
Get evaluated by our accident injury specialists today. Early treatment and documentation give you the best chance for full recovery and fair compensation.
Same-day appointments available. Open 7 days a week.