Motor Vehicle Accidents
What to Do, What to Watch For, and When to Seek Care
Car accidents happen fast—and often when you least expect them. Whether it’s a fender bender in a parking lot or a serious highway collision, motor vehicle accidents can be both physically and emotionally jarring.
Each year, over 6 million motor vehicle accidents are reported in the United States. And while not all result in severe injuries, even a minor crash can lead to lingering pain or medical complications if not properly treated.
At our walk-in clinic, we’re here to help you through the aftermath—evaluating injuries, offering treatment, and making sure you’re safe and supported in the days and weeks that follow.
Common Injuries After a Car Accident
Even at low speeds, your body undergoes sudden force and rapid motion that can strain muscles, affect joints, and impact internal systems. Some injuries may be felt immediately; others may take hours—or even days—to show up.
Here are some of the most common post-accident injuries:
- Whiplash: Sudden jerking of the neck can cause stiffness, headaches, and limited range of motion.
- Back pain: Spinal misalignment or soft tissue strain can lead to lower back pain or radiating discomfort.
- Concussions: A type of traumatic brain injury (TBI) caused by a blow to the head, leading to confusion, dizziness, or memory issues.
- Soft tissue injuries: Muscle strains, bruises, and ligament sprains in the shoulders, knees, or back.
- Chest injuries: Airbag impact or seatbelt pressure can result in bruised ribs or sternum pain.
- Cuts and abrasions: Broken glass, metal, or debris can cause visible injuries that need cleaning or stitches.
- Emotional trauma: Anxiety, nightmares, or even symptoms of PTSD can develop after an accident—even a minor one.
Symptoms You Shouldn’t Ignore
After a car crash, it’s common for adrenaline to mask symptoms. That’s why it’s important to monitor your body in the hours and days that follow. Seek medical attention if you experience:
- Headaches that won’t go away
- Dizziness or blurred vision
- Neck or back pain
- Tingling or numbness in the limbs
- Difficulty focusing or memory lapses
- Chest pain or shortness of breath
- Nausea or vomiting
- Mood changes, irritability, or emotional distress
Some symptoms could signal a concussion, internal bleeding, or more serious injuries that require prompt attention.
What To Do Immediately After an Accident
Here are the key steps to take if you’ve been in a motor vehicle accident:
When Should You Visit a Walk-In Clinic?
If your injuries are not life-threatening but you’re experiencing pain, stiffness, or any unusual symptoms, visiting a walk-in clinic can be the right step.
You should come in if:
- You feel sore or stiff in the neck, back, or shoulders
- You’re having headaches, fatigue, or difficulty concentrating
- You need wound care or evaluation for minor cuts and bruises
- You want documentation for insurance or legal purposes
- You were told by first responders to follow up with a healthcare provider
At our clinic, we offer:
- X-rays and injury evaluations
- Treatment for sprains, strains, and minor fractures
- Concussion screening
- Pain management options
- Referrals to specialists if needed
- Return-to-work or return-to-driving evaluations
Documentation Matters
If you’re filing an insurance claim or pursuing legal compensation, having a medical evaluation within 24–72 hours of your accident is key. Our clinic provides detailed visit summaries that you can submit to your insurance provider or attorney.
Emotional Health After an Accident
It’s not just your body that needs time to heal. Many people experience emotional symptoms after a crash, including:
- Trouble sleeping
- Flashbacks or nightmares
- Avoidance of driving or being a passenger
- Feelings of fear, guilt, or helplessness
If these feelings persist beyond a few weeks—or begin to interfere with your daily life—talk to a mental health professional. Anxiety and PTSD are treatable with the right support.
Prevention and Recovery Tips
While you can’t prevent every accident, you can reduce risk and promote faster healing:
- Wear your seatbelt—every ride, every time
- Avoid distractions like texting or eating while driving
- Don’t ignore minor symptoms—early treatment can prevent chronic pain
- Stretch and stay active (as recommended by your provider)
- Follow up on care—complete any physical therapy or follow-up visits
- Limit screen time and rest your eyes if you’re recovering from a head injury