Car Crash

What to Do After a Car Accident: Chiropractic & Physical Therapy Guidance

1. Get Safe and Seek Medical Clearance

• First, ensure everyone is safe and call 911 if needed.
• Even if you feel fine, some injuries like whiplash or concussion may not show symptoms for hours or days.

2. Schedule Care as Soon as Possible

• It’s strongly recommended that you schedule a chiropractic or physical therapy evaluation within 72 hours of the accident, or the same day if possible.
• Early chiropractic or physical therapy treatment supports recovery, reduces long-term complications, and preserves documentation for insurance or legal needs.

3. What Happens at Your First Appointment

• A comprehensive exam & diagnostic testing (posture, spinal alignment, possible X-rays, neurological screening).
• Same-day treatment, focusing on relieving pain, reducing inflammation, and restoring mobility - An individualized rehab plan, including chiropractic adjustments, soft-tissue therapy, and guided PT exercises.
• Documentation and support for insurance or legal processes.

4. Typical Treatment Plan

• Most patients with moderate injuries require 8–10 visits over several weeks.
• More severe or complicated cases may need more than 10 visits, but early intervention accelerates healing and shortens recovery.

Nevada Accident Facts: Why Early Care Matters

• 412 people died on Nevada roads in 2024, a nearly 6% increase from 2023.
• In Clark County, fatalities rose almost 14%, from 258 in 2023 to 293 in 2024.
• Nevada recorded 112 pedestrian deaths in 2024, with 95 in Clark County alone.
• Motorcycle fatalities also rose significantly: 22% increase in Clark County.
• Speeding and DUI remain top contributors, with about 50–60% of fatal crash victims impaired.

Streamlined Timeline: What to Do After an Accident

• Check for injuries and call 911 if needed.
• Exchange insurance info and take photos.
• Accept on-site medical help, even if you have mild symptoms.

• Call Canyon Lake Chiropractic & PT at (702) 256-2225, or contact us using our online form.
• Same-day evaluation and documentation, which is critical for hidden injuries.

• Watch for pain, stiffness, or neurological symptoms.
• Get a comprehensive exam and initial treatment.
• Begin symptom tracking for insurance and legal records.

• Monitor for concussion signs, such as headache, dizziness, irritability, and brain fog.
• If symptoms appear, start concussion-specific evaluation and care.

• Attend follow-up sessions (typically 1–3x/week).
• Rehab focuses on pain relief, mobility, strength, balance & function.
• Adjust treatment as needed while tracking progress and symptoms.

Concussion Care After a Car Accident

• Concussions are common in car accidents due to rapid acceleration, even without hitting your head. Symptoms like headaches, brain fog, dizziness, or mood swings may be delayed.
• If left untreated, concussions can result in longer-lasting post-concussion syndrome.

Our Approach to Concussion Management

• Medical screening to rule out red flags.
• Vestibular, balance & vision testing.
• Cognitive assessments for memory and focus.
• Rehab therapy: vestibular retraining, aerobic progression, return-to-activity planning.
• Collaborative care with referrals as needed.

How to Get Started

Call Canyon Lake Chiropractic & PT at (702) 256-2225 to schedule same-day care, or contact us on our website. Early treatment supports faster recovery, better health outcomes, and helps preserve your insurance or legal documentation needs.