What to Do Immediately After a Car Accident (Even If You Think You’re Not Hurt)

Getting in a car accident can be overwhelming—even more so when you don’t think you’re injured. But research shows that symptoms like whiplash, back pain, and even concussions can take hours or days to appear after a collision. In fact, a study published in the Journal of Clinical Epidemiology found that nearly 50% of whiplash symptoms are delayed. That’s why it’s important to take every crash seriously, even if you feel "fine" in the moment. But even a minor collision can cause soft tissue injuries, whiplash, or spinal misalignments that don’t show symptoms right away.

Here’s what you should do immediately after a crash to protect your health, rights, and recovery:

1. Call the Police

Even if it seems like a minor accident, a police report is critical. We’ve seen cases where patients struggled to get insurance coverage or delayed medical treatment simply because there was no official documentation of the crash. Without a report, proving fault or linking your injuries to the accident becomes much harder—especially if symptoms appear days later. It provides a legal record of the crash, helps avoid disputes, and is often required by insurance companies. Without a report, your injury claim could turn into a "he said, she said" situation.

2. Exchange Information

Make sure you get the other driver’s:

• Name

• Phone number

• Insurance details

• License plate number

• Driver’s license number

Also, collect contact info from any witnesses.

3. Take Photos

Document the scene thoroughly:

• All vehicles involved

• License plates

• Any visible damage

• Road conditions and surrounding area

4. Don’t Say “I’m Fine”

It’s human nature to downplay pain after a stressful event. But some symptoms—like whiplash or back strain—don’t show up for hours or even days. Let your body and a medical professional determine how you’re doing.

5. Call a Chiropractic Clinic that Specializes in Auto Accidents

Even if you’re not feeling pain immediately, getting a 10-point exam can help identify early signs of injury. This exam includes a full evaluation of your range of motion, reflexes, muscle strength, joint mobility, postural alignment, neurological function, and areas of tenderness or inflammation. It’s a comprehensive way to assess for hidden injuries that might not be visible on X-rays or felt right away. At Accident Chiropractic Plus, we offer a free initial exam and will walk you through your insurance options—even if you’re unsure who’s at fault.