Being involved in a car accident is stressful, frightening, and often overwhelming. In the moment, it's easy to feel disoriented and unsure of what to do next. At Gibson Chiropractic, we believe that being prepared can make all the difference in protecting your health, legal rights, and peace of mind.

Here’s what you need to know if you’re ever involved in an auto accident in Sacramento CA, along with 9 essential steps to take immediately afterward.

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Step-by-Step: 9 Things to Do After an Auto Accident in Sacramento CA

1. Call 911 and Be Safe

First and foremost, make sure you're safe. If you're able, move your vehicle out of traffic to prevent further collisions. Then call 911. Even if the accident seems minor, it’s crucial to have law enforcement and emergency services on scene to assess the situation and document what happened.

2. Exchange Vehicle Information

Share your information with the other party involved. This includes:

• Insurance details
• Driver’s license
• Vehicle registration

Stay calm and polite, but avoid discussing who’s at fault at the scene.

3. Take Photos of Vehicle Damage

Use your phone to take clear photos of the damage to all vehicles involved, the scene of the accident, license plates, and any visible injuries. These can be vital for both insurance and legal purposes.

4. Call Your Insurance Company

Notify your insurance provider as soon as possible. Stick to the facts and provide them with the necessary documentation. Be honest, but do not speculate or admit fault.

5. Don't Give an Early Statement

Insurance companies may try to get you to settle quickly. Avoid making early statements or accepting a fast settlement offer, especially before you fully understand the extent of your injuries.

6. Do Not Record a Statement for the Other Party’s Insurance

You are not obligated to give a recorded statement to the other driver’s insurance company. Politely decline and refer them to your attorney, if you have one.

7. Go to the Emergency Department for an Examination

Even if you feel "okay," many injuries (like whiplash or internal trauma) can take hours or days to surface. Getting a thorough medical evaluation immediately after an accident is essential for your health and it also creates important documentation.

8. Make an Appointment with a Chiropractor

Chiropractic care is one of the most effective ways to treat soft tissue injuries, whiplash, back pain, and misalignments resulting from car accidents. At Gibson Chiropractic, we specialize in helping patients recover from auto injuries by restoring proper alignment and relieving pain; non-invasive and naturally. Don’t wait until symptoms worsen. Early chiropractic intervention can speed up recovery and prevent long-term complications.

9. Call an Injury Attorney

An experienced personal injury attorney can help protect your rights, deal with insurance companies, and ensure you get the compensation you deserve for medical treatment, lost wages, and other damages.

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Why Chiropractic Care Matters After a Car Accident

Even low-speed collisions can cause significant musculoskeletal injuries. The force of impact can throw your spine out of alignment, strain muscles, and lead to chronic pain if not addressed properly.

At Gibson Chiropractic, we conduct a thorough examination, take any necessary imaging, and develop a customized treatment plan to help you heal. Whether you're experiencing stiffness, headaches, neck pain, or dizziness, our goal is to get you back to feeling your best.

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Final Thoughts

Auto accidents are scary, but you don’t have to go through the recovery process alone. Follow the 9 steps above to protect yourself physically and legally, and don’t underestimate the importance of chiropractic care in your healing journey.

If you or a loved one has recently been in a car accident, contact Gibson Chiropractic today to schedule a consultation. Your health is your most valuable asset—let’s protect it