Being involved in a car accident can be a stressful and overwhelming experience. Even if the collision seems minor, injuries like whiplash, back pain, and soft tissue damage may not appear immediately. At Hoffman Family Chiropractic, we specialize in helping accident victims recover safely and effectively. If you’ve been in an auto accident in New Jersey, follow these essential steps to protect your health and legal rights.
- Stay Calm and Check for Injuries
Your safety comes first. Take a deep breath and assess yourself and any passengers for injuries. If anyone is seriously hurt, call 911 immediately. Even if you feel fine, adrenaline can mask pain, so it’s important to get evaluated by a medical professional.
- Move to a Safe Location (If Possible)
If your vehicle is obstructing traffic and can be moved safely, pull over to the side of the road. Turn on your hazard lights and set up flares or warning triangles if available.
- Call the Police
New Jersey law requires you to report an accident if there is injury, death, or significant property damage. A police report provides an official record of the incident, which is crucial for insurance claims and potential legal action.
- Exchange Information
Collect the following details from the other driver(s) involved:
- Full name and contact information
- Driver’s license number
- Insurance company and policy number
- Vehicle make, model, and license plate number
Also, gather contact information from any witnesses.
- Document the Scene
Use your phone to take pictures of:
- Vehicle damage
- License plates
- Road conditions and traffic signs
- Visible injuries
- Skid marks or debris
This evidence can support your insurance claim.
- Seek Medical Attention ASAP
Even if you don’t feel hurt, some injuries (like whiplash or concussions) can take hours or days to show symptoms. Visit an urgent care center, ER, or a trusted chiropractor like Hoffman Family Chiropractic for a thorough evaluation. Early treatment can prevent long-term complications.
- Notify Your Insurance Company
Report the accident to your insurer promptly. Stick to the facts. New Jersey is a no-fault state, meaning your own insurance (PIP – Personal Injury Protection) covers medical expenses regardless of who caused the crash.
- Follow Up with Chiropractic Care
Many accident-related injuries involve misalignments in the spine, muscle strains, and nerve irritation. At Hoffman Family Chiropractic, we provide:
- Gentle spinal adjustments
- Soft tissue therapy
- Rehabilitative exercises
- Pain management without drugs or surgery
- Spinal Decompression Therapy
- Laser Therapy
Early chiropractic care can speed up recovery and prevent chronic pain.
- Keep Track of Medical Records & Expenses
Document all doctor visits, treatments, and related expenses. This information is vital if you need to pursue a personal injury claim.
- Consult a Legal Professional (If Needed)
If you’ve suffered significant injuries due to another driver’s negligence, consider consulting a personal injury attorney to explore your options for compensation.
Let Hoffman Family Chiropractic Help You Heal
Car accidents can leave lasting effects if not treated properly. While many will recover in 2 to 3 months, some symptoms can persist several months or years. Our compassionate team is here to provide personalized, non-invasive care to help you regain mobility and live pain-free.
📞 Contact us today to schedule an evaluation and start your recovery journey!
📍 Serving Manasquan, Brielle, Wall, Sea Girt, Brick, Point Pleasant Beach, Point Pleasant, Bay Head, Mantoloking and the surrounding communities
☎️ 732-295-1211
🌐 www.hoffmanfamilychiropractic.com
“Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical or legal advice. Always consult a healthcare provider after an accident.”