1. Move vehicles off busy roads and set up flares. Be cautious about moving injured parties, but try to protect them from traffic.

2. Jot down the license numbers of the other vechicles immediately.

3. Call the police.

4. Exchange names, addresses, phone numbers and insurance data.

5. Make notes of how you remember the accident happening.

6. Call your insurance agent immediately.

7. Call your doctor of chiropractic for an exam.

8. Call an attorney for legal advice. Protect yourself, Insurance companies have attorneys and so should you.

BODY TRAUMA - WHAT TO EXPECT

Understanding what to do when an accident happens and what types of injuries can occur may save you time, money, and long-term medical care. But a prompt physical exam is the best advice. Confer immediately with one of our doctors who will determine the extent of any injuries.

COMMON INJURIES

Low-velocity injuries (under 10 mph) usually result from the rapid movement of the body during the crash. this movement may result in muscle strain, seat belt bruises, or Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI). Other symptoms may be delayed, but pain and stiffness may occur within 12-36 hours after impact.

High-velocity injuries (over 10 mph) usually result from a second impact, the body hitting objects inside the vehicle such as the dashboard, steering wheel, or window. Common injuries of this kind include shoulder, head, or knee hematomas; wrist fractures; neck sprains; concussions; and a variety of contusions.

Traumatic Cervical Syndrome, more commonly known as whiplash occurs when the neck is forced through a rapid series of movements faster than the bones, muscles, and ligaments can accommodate. Some symptoms include swelling, tenderness, weakness or pain in the neck and shoulder; sore throat and/or loss of voice; trouble swallowing; jaw problems; vomiting; flashing lights in the visual field; headache; light headedness or dizziness; painful tingling sensations; visual disturbances or blurred vision; and ringing in the ears. In some cases pain may not present itself for 12-36 hours.

Contact Injury Treatment Solutions

After an exam has been completed, test results examined, and prognosis determined, treatment can proceed. Your recovery will be a joint effort between you and your doctor. What you can do at home can be summarized in an easy to remember acronym:

R = Rest (get plenty)
I = Ice (Ice the injured area to reduce swelling)
C = Compression (Support the injured area)
E = Elevation (Elevate limbs)