If you have just been in a car accident in Stockton, the choices you make in the next three days will shape both your recovery and your insurance case. Here is exactly what we recommend, in order of priority.
In the First Hour
Call 911 if anyone is injured or if vehicles are blocking traffic. Even if injuries seem minor, having an officer on scene to file a police report is critical for any future claim. Take photos of all vehicles involved, the scene, the road conditions, and any visible injuries. Exchange information with the other driver, including license, registration, insurance, and contact details. Get the names and phone numbers of any witnesses.
Within the First 24 Hours
Get medical evaluation, even if you feel okay. Adrenaline masks pain after a collision, and some of the most common injuries (whiplash, soft tissue injuries, concussions) do not show their full symptoms until 24 to 72 hours later. The medical record from this initial evaluation is also one of the most important pieces of evidence for any insurance claim or attorney case. Notify your auto insurance company. Document your own symptoms in a simple journal, with the date and what you are feeling, even if it seems trivial.
Days 2 to 3: Watch for Delayed Symptoms
The following symptoms commonly appear 24 to 72 hours after a collision and are signals to seek evaluation immediately: neck stiffness or pain that was not there immediately after the crash, headaches that are unusual for you, dizziness or balance problems, blurred vision, ringing in the ears, difficulty concentrating, tingling or numbness in the arms or hands, lower back pain, shoulder pain, jaw pain.
These are classic signs of whiplash, soft tissue injury, post-traumatic headache, or other injuries that respond best to early treatment.
Why a Chiropractic Evaluation Matters Early
Chiropractors are specialists in the soft tissue and joint injuries that car accidents cause. We document your injuries thoroughly in a way that supports your insurance claim. We can also identify which symptoms are mechanical (treatable with chiropractic care) versus which require referral to a medical doctor, orthopedist, or neurologist. Starting care early consistently leads to better outcomes than waiting.
What About Insurance and Attorneys?
Your own auto insurance medical payments coverage (MedPay) usually covers chiropractic care after an accident, regardless of fault. If the other driver was at fault, their insurance is on the hook for your medical care, but you typically pay up front and get reimbursed at settlement. If your injuries are significant, it is worth talking to a personal injury attorney early. Many work on contingency, meaning no fee unless you recover. We work with most major attorneys in San Joaquin County.
Same-Day Evaluation at Premier Chiropractic
We hold same-day appointments specifically for new accident patients. Call us at (209) 477-7777 and we will get you in fast. We are located at 4560 N. Pershing Ave, Ste. A, Stockton, CA 95207. For comprehensive information about how we handle accident cases, see our personal injury chiropractic page.
This article is for general information only and does not constitute medical or legal advice. If you have serious injuries, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department.