Auto Accident Injury FAQs

If you've been in a car accident, you likely have many questions about your injuries, treatment options, and insurance coverage. Our team at Aim High Health has helped thousands of auto accident patients recover. Here are answers to the most common questions we receive.

Immediately After Your Accident

What should I do right after a car accident?

First, ensure everyone's safety and call 911. Exchange insurance information with the other driver and document the scene with photos. Get a police report. Even if you feel fine, seek medical evaluation within 72 hours—many injuries don't show symptoms immediately. Contact your auto insurance to report the accident.

Should I see a doctor even if I feel okay?

Yes, absolutely. Adrenaline can mask pain for hours or days after an accident. Soft tissue injuries like whiplash often don't produce symptoms for 24-72 hours. Early documentation is also important for your insurance claim. We recommend evaluation within 72 hours of any accident.

When should I see a chiropractor after a car accident?

As soon as possible, ideally within 72 hours. Early treatment prevents acute injuries from becoming chronic. Your chiropractor can document injuries while they're fresh and begin treatment before problems worsen. In Colorado, Med Pay covers chiropractic care.

Insurance and Payment Questions

Will I have to pay out of pocket for treatment?

Most patients have no out-of-pocket costs. Colorado requires auto insurance policies to include Medical Payments (Med Pay) coverage, which pays for treatment regardless of fault. We bill your auto insurance directly and handle all paperwork.

What is Med Pay in Colorado?

Med Pay (Medical Payments coverage) is mandatory in Colorado. It pays for medical treatment after a car accident regardless of who was at fault. The minimum is $5,000, though we recommend $10,000-$25,000. It covers you, your family, and any passengers in your vehicle.

Do I need a personal injury attorney?

Not always, but consider consulting one if: you have significant injuries, the other driver was at fault, you're facing large medical bills, you've missed work, or the insurance company is being difficult. We work with several trusted personal injury attorneys and can provide referrals.

Common Injuries and Treatment

What are the most common car accident injuries?

The most common injuries we treat include: whiplash (neck strain), back pain and spinal injuries, headaches, shoulder injuries from seatbelts, soft tissue damage (sprains/strains), herniated or bulging discs, and TMJ (jaw) injuries.

Why is my pain getting worse days after the accident?

This is very common. Initial adrenaline wears off, inflammation builds, and soft tissues swell over time. Muscles that tightened during impact may spasm later. This delayed pain is exactly why we recommend immediate evaluation—early treatment can minimize this progression.

How long does car accident injury treatment take?

Treatment duration depends on injury severity. Minor injuries may resolve in 4-8 weeks. Moderate injuries like whiplash typically need 8-12 weeks. Severe injuries may require 3-6 months. We create individualized plans with clear milestones.

Have more questions? Contact Aim High Health for a free consultation. We specialize in auto accident injury treatment and are here to help you recover.