- Duration
- 10 minutes at the scene, plus 2 minutes per day
- Frequency
- Once at the scene, then daily for 7 days
- Equipment
- Phone camera, this checklist, and a notes app if you want
- 1.At the scene: prioritize safetyMove to a safer spot if you can. Turn hazards on. Check yourself and passengers. Call 911 as soon as possible.
- 2.Collect the essentialsGet driver information, insurance details, plate numbers, witness contacts, and photos of the vehicles and scene.
- 3.Know urgent medical warning signsWorsening headache, repeated vomiting, confusion, weakness, numbness, or seizures need urgent evaluation.
- 4.Expect delayed symptomsNeck and back pain and headaches can appear later. Track changes during the first 24 to 72 hours instead of guessing.
- 5.Bring your timeline to any visitShare the crash date, when symptoms began, and what daily activities now feel harder than normal.
Educational note: This resource is general information. It is not medical or legal advice. If symptoms are severe or worsening, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.
What to do at the scene (7 steps)
- Get to safety. Turn hazards on. If the vehicle can be moved safely, move out of traffic.
- Check for injuries. Check yourself and passengers. If someone has severe pain, avoid moving them unless there is immediate danger.
- Call 911 when needed. Call if anyone is injured, traffic is unsafe, there is a hazard, or you are unsure what to do next.
- Exchange information. Get names, phone numbers, driver’s license information, insurance details, and vehicle details.
- Document the scene with photos. Photograph vehicle damage, license plates, the intersection or road, and visible injuries if present.
- Get witness contacts. Ask witnesses for names and phone numbers. Write one sentence about what they saw.
- Plan for a medical check. Symptoms can be delayed. Pay attention to changes during the first 24 to 72 hours.
What information to collect (quick list)
- Other driver’s name and contact information
- Insurance company name and policy information
- Driver’s license number and license plate number
- Photos of both vehicles and the surrounding scene
- Witness names and phone numbers
- The location, date, and time of the crash
Why symptoms can show up later
Right after a crash, adrenaline can mask pain. Soft tissue irritation can also build over time. Many people notice neck pain, back pain, or headaches later the same day or within a few days.
Red flags: when to seek urgent medical care now
If you hit your head, blacked out, or feel unusually “off,” take it seriously.
- Headache that gets worse and does not go away
- Repeated vomiting or worsening nausea
- Confusion, slurred speech, unusual behavior, or trouble staying awake
- Weakness, numbness, seizures, or trouble walking
- Vision changes or worsening dizziness
If symptoms are severe or worsening, seek urgent care or call 911. If you are here in Alamo, Texas, please visit South Texas Health System ER Alamo that provides emergency care 24/7.
What to do in the first 24 to 72 hours
- Do not guess. Write down what you feel and when it started.
- Track function. Note what is harder than normal, including sleep, driving, sitting, working, lifting, or turning your head.
- Use the symptom tracker. A clear timeline helps clinicians make better decisions and helps you communicate accurately.
- Seek evaluation if you worsen. New weakness, numbness, severe headache, or confusion should be evaluated urgently.
How this fits what we do at South Texas Accident & Injury
If you are in the Rio Grande Valley and you were in a crash, our clinic is built for auto accident injury care from day one. That means you are not just getting “treatment.” You are getting a clear plan that helps you understand what happened, what to watch for, and what your next steps should be.
If you want a conservative, structured plan after an accident, start here: learn about our protocols and rehab options.
Disclaimer
We provide chiropractic and physical therapy services within Texas scope and guidelines. This resource is educational information only. It is not a medical diagnosis. If symptoms are severe or worsening, seek urgent medical care.
