Were you involved in a car accident and don’t know what to do now?

Dr. David Maklan can answer your questions.

Car accidents can happen to anyone at any time.

this page has a basic checklist that can and will help you after an accident.

What to do at the time of the accident?

1. Immediately call 911 and remain on the scene until the police arrive.
2. Stay calm and cooperate fully with the investigating officer.
3. Gather names and telephone numbers of any witnesses.
4. Seek medical attention.
5. Report the accident to your insurance company within 24 hours.
6. Do not give a recorded statement to anyone without speaking to a physician or an attorney.

What to do after the accident?

As bad as an accident can be for your car, it is even worse on your body. Even a small accident can cause serious injury to your neck, back and spinal column. Even if you are not feeling pain at the time of the accident, it is important that you go for a check-up with a Chiropractor following an accident. Many times symptoms will not appear until days or weeks after an accident.

What happens to our body at the time of the accident?

When one vehicle hits another, the bodies of the passengers are thrust in the direction of the impact and right afterwards, thrust back in the opposite direction. This is what we call whiplash. Even at lower speeds, the impact of two colliding cars can cause spinal trauma, causing problems for many parts of the body. At the moment of the impact, the weight of our head can overstretch and damage muscles and ligaments. The impact forcefully moves the bones in the spine out of their normal alignment.

If I am involved in a car accident, do I have to pay for my medical expenses?

No. Any medical expenses including hospitals and doctor’s visits will be covered and paid through your auto insurance, regardless of whether or not the accident was your fault. Even the most basic auto insurance policy covers medical expenses, by law. This applies not only to the driver of the vehicle, but to any and all passengers in the car at the time of the accident.

I was in a car accident many months ago and I never sought help. Is it still possible to see a doctor?

Yes. According to Florida law a person can file an auto accident claim and go to a doctor up to 3 years after the date of the accident. However, any delay in medical treatment following an accident is never recommended.