October 14, 2017
It is a scary scenario. The tires squeal, you brace yourself, and then you feel the crash of the other car as it collides with yours.
There is a moment of panic. Am I ok? Are my kids ok? What is the damage? What do I do now?
Take a deep breath.
At Accident Care & Treatment Center, Inc. we know the stress, anxiety, and confusion that can accompany an auto accident and that is why we have put together seven steps as a guideline to help in the aftermath of an accident.
- Stay Calm. This may be easier said than done, but keeping a level head is a must. Panic can affect others and worsen the situation. To help stay calm close your eyes and take a few deep breaths. This will help slow the heart rate and keep the mind focused.
- Assess the damage. Check yourself and your passengers for any injuries. If they require immediate attention call for an ambulance.
- Call 911. For any auto accident, even a minor one, call the police to have a record of the situation and the damage. Do not leave the scene until the report is filed.
- Get the Facts. Get the names, phone numbers, addresses, insurance information, and VIN of those involved in the accident. Also, be sure to take down license plate numbers, passenger contact information, and any witnesses present.
- Take Pictures. With smartphones these days this is the simplest thing to do. Take pictures of all vehicles involved and, if possible, an overview of the entire accident. If you are unable to get a picture of this, draw a sketch.
- Limit the discussion of the car accident. Discuss the auto accident only with the police officer and your insurance agent. Discussing it with others can muddy up the details. Admit no fault or liability.
- Call Us. Even if you are showing no serious injuries at the time call (405) 896-3750 or simply walk in for an appointment. Common car accident injuries such as whiplash can take 36 hours or more to show symptoms. Medical literature recommends being seen as soon as possible after an accident and before serious symptoms occur.
At Accident Care & Treatment Center, Inc., we want you to be as safe as possible on the road and part of this is always being prepared for an accident. Keep traffic cones or road flares in your car as well as a flashlight and a first aid kit as these may come in handy if an accident should occur.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the first 5 things to do after a car accident?
(1) Check for injuries and call 911, (2) move to safety if possible, (3) exchange driver, insurance, and contact information, (4) photograph the scene and all vehicle damage from multiple angles, (5) seek medical evaluation within 72 hours even if you feel fine.
Should I say 'I'm fine' at the scene of an accident?
No. Adrenaline masks pain, and many serious injuries — whiplash, concussion, disc injury — do not produce symptoms for hours or days. Any admission of being 'fine' at the scene can be used against you later by the at-fault driver's insurance.
How soon should I see a doctor after a car accident?
Within 24–72 hours, even if you feel okay. Early evaluation catches injuries before they worsen and creates a medical record linking your injuries to the accident — which is essential for insurance and legal claims. Gaps between accident and treatment weaken claims significantly.
What if I can't afford medical care after an accident?
In Oklahoma, your auto insurance PIP coverage pays for medical treatment regardless of fault. If the other driver was at fault, their liability insurance may also cover treatment. Accident Care bills auto insurance directly — you pay nothing up front and don't need personal health insurance.
Should I talk to the other driver's insurance company?
Politely decline. You are not required to give a recorded statement to the other driver's insurer. Anything you say can and will be used to reduce your claim. Refer them to your own insurance company or, if injuries are serious, to your attorney.
Injured in an Auto Accident? We Can Help
Accident Care & Treatment Center has been exclusively dedicated to auto-accident injury since 1995. Our Oklahoma City clinic at 3209 NW Expressway provides a complete continuum of care under one roof:
- Licensed medical doctors — not chiropractors — who diagnose, prescribe, and direct care
- On-site imaging — digital X-ray, MRI, CT, and ultrasound all performed same-day
- Physical therapy — in-house therapists coordinate directly with your physician
- Interventional pain management — trigger point injections, nerve blocks, and epidurals when needed
- Direct insurance billing — zero up-front cost via Oklahoma PIP, MedPay, or at-fault liability
- Same-day appointments and walk-ins welcome — Monday through Friday
When to Seek Evaluation
Seek a medical evaluation within 24–72 hours of the accident if you experience any of the following:
- Neck, back, shoulder, or head pain — even if mild or delayed
- Headaches, dizziness, or light/noise sensitivity
- Tingling, numbness, or weakness anywhere in the body
- Reduced range of motion or stiffness
- Difficulty concentrating, memory changes, or sleep disruption
Call (405) 842-3209 or walk in during business hours. We serve Oklahoma City, Edmond, Norman, Moore, Midwest City, Del City, Yukon, and Mustang.