A Car accident! What do I do now?

The Journal of Clinical Orthopedics states that, " strain injuries to the spine, like injuries typically received in vehicular accidents, increase arthritic development 6.5 times." Why? "Because the whipping  motion of the neck can be up to 5 times greater than the force of the collision itself."  "The use of the seat belt and shoulder harness actually accelerate the whipping motion of the neck."  Since the whip in the neck occurs in the first 1/10th of a second in the accident one cannot protect oneself. The whipping creates a change in the  neck posture tearing ligaments that hold the spinal bones together. This creates areas of structural weakness that may never return to normal leaving one prone to spinal joint irritation, degeneration, and arthritis.

What does all that mean?  It means that when an intense traumatic injury occurs, as in a motor vehicle collision, there is a need to consult with a health care practitioner who will analyze the changes that have occurred to your body due to the trauma. If necessary, a treatment regimen should be established to correct the changes and rehabilitate the weakened areas of the body.  As we saw in the journal of orthopedics article great importance must be placed on restoration of the normal spinal posture in order to avoid arthritis. This is the prime therapeutic intent of the chiropractor, return the spine to its normal posture.  Treatment may take a few weeks as swelling in the muscle might also progress slowly hence, many conditions can appear some 2 weeks after a collision, even if there is little damage to the automobile. Studies have shown that some symptoms occur 2 or 3 months after a collision.  So, even if your pains initially are minimal and the collision seemed minor. Remember, a collision at 5 mph is equivalent to falling off a 3 foot high ladder and landing on your head .

In our offices we conduct a thorough physical examination of the patient. This includes an exact study of the changes in the spinal movements, changes in muscle strength, and the patient's pain complaints. Timely aggressive treatment can help to avoid the arthritic changes that have been found after automobile collision. This must be followed by rehabilitative exercise to strengthen weakened traumatized muscle otherwise, weak traumatized muscle will become progressively weaker, and unable to properly support the spinal posture.  

 From a legal standpoint attorneys Michael Kelly and Jonathan Soto agree that, If you are involved in a motor vehicle accident you possess certain legal rights that you may not be aware.  For example, you may be entitled to receive compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, replacement services, and pain and suffering associated with your accident. A motor vehicle accident is often a stressful and perhaps traumatic event.  Taking a few simple steps following the accident, however, can go a long way in ensuring the handling of your claim goes as smoothly as possible.

1.      Call the Police and Exchange Insurance Information

This may seem obvious, but often motor vehicle accident are not memorialized in a police report.  If you are involved in a motor vehicle accident and are NOT at fault, the substance of a police can be very important.  Similarly, you should always copy down some information about the other vehicle involved in the crash.  Important details are the driver’s insurance information, the license plate, and the make and color of the vehicle.

2.      Don’t Admit Fault

Even if you believe you may have been the cause of a motor vehicle accident, refrain from making statements regarding liability until you have had a chance to calm down and re-think the accident.  It is very easy for people to let their emotional side interfere with how an accident transpired.  For that reason, avoid making statements about fault until you have had some time to reconsider the accident in its entirety.

3.      Seek Medical Attention, If Necessary

Many people do not feel the physical effects of a car accident for several days and many injuries associated with motor vehicle accidents are undetectable to those not trained in the medical profession.  Very often, symptoms such as pain, discomfort, soreness, stiffness, dizziness, or numbness may appear in the days following the accident.  If you experience pain and or discomfort right away or in the days and weeks following the accident, consult your primary care physician for an evaluation immediately.

4.      Take Pictures of Your Injuries…Immediately

It is important to document any injuries that are related to your motor vehicle accident.  For this reason, taking pictures of your injuries is a very good idea.  Take pictures of any bruising, swelling, or areas of discomfort.  Also, take as many pictures as possible: from all different angles and distances and in ample lighting.  If you are unable to do so yourself, have a family member or friend assist you.  Attorneys are often able to raise the value of your case significantly by pointing insurance adjusters to specific documentation regarding your injuries.

5.      Record Witness Contact Information

If anyone witnessed your accident, get their contact information, i.e. name, address, phone number, and even email address.  Having another set of eyes corroborate your story about how the accident transpired is invaluable when dealing with an insurance company.  It becomes much more difficult for an insurance company to deny liability on behalf of their insured when a disinterested witness tells them a similar story.

6.      Contact a Lawyer

It is no secret that involving a personal injury attorney gives you the best shot at recovering a large settlement or court judgment.  Motor vehicle accident cases are extremely complicated and you will likely need help navigating your way through the claim.  Insurance companies very regularly provide unrepresented individuals low ball offers because they know they do not know the value of their case.  Most personal injury attorney provide a free consultation.  Better to sit down and speak with a lawyer and decide not to sign up with their firm than to speak with no one at all.

A motor vehicle collision is always a huge stressful  inconvenience. It usually interrupts ones daily activities and creates much confusion. We hope this information helps you to deal with the situation better and by following these suggestions you can minimize your stress, loses, and pains.

Barron Chiropractic and Rehabilitation

special thanks to:  Kelly & Soto Law