Even a low-speed collision can strain the neck, back and shoulders. Symptoms are often delayed, sometimes by a day or more. Knowing what to do right after a crash, and how Oregon’s no-fault PIP coverage works, can save you stress later.
Right after the crash
- Get to safety and call 911 if anyone is hurt or the road is blocked.
- Get checked. Go to the emergency room or urgent care for severe pain, head injury, numbness or anything alarming.
- Exchange names, contact details, license plates and insurance information. Take photos of the scene and the vehicles.
- Do not assume you are fine because you feel okay. Adrenaline can hide pain.
Reporting the crash in Oregon
Oregon DMV requires drivers to submit an Oregon Traffic Collision and Insurance Report within 72 hours when anyone is injured or killed, or when damage to your vehicle, to any towed vehicle or to other property is over $2,500. A police report does not replace your own. You can find the form on the Oregon DMV crash report page. Also tell your insurance company about the crash promptly.
How PIP works
Oregon auto policies include Personal Injury Protection (PIP), which pays regardless of who caused the crash. The state minimums are:
- Medical expenses: up to $15,000 per person for reasonable and necessary care related to the crash, for expenses incurred within one year of the injury.
- Lost income: 70% of lost income, up to $3,000 per month, for up to 52 weeks.
- Essential services: up to $30 per day if you cannot do household tasks because of your injuries.
Your own policy may provide more than the minimums. Ask your insurer exactly what your PIP covers, including chiropractic care. We can explain the clinical side, but we cannot give legal or insurance advice. Read how PIP insurance actually works after an Oregon car accident.
Why pain can show up late
Soft tissue such as muscles and ligaments can be strained in a crash without immediate symptoms. Stiffness, neck pain, headaches or back pain may appear over the next days. See why car accident pain does not always show up right away.
How a chiropractor can help
Dr. Devine starts with a careful exam of your neck, back and shoulders and screens for injuries that need medical imaging or a referral. Care may include gentle manual therapy, rehab exercises and, in some cases, laser therapy. Learn more about our car accident chiropractic care, whiplash, and injury treatment at Form & Function Chiropractic.
Deadlines and legal questions
Oregon sets time limits for injury claims, and they can be short, so do not wait to learn them. If you have questions about fault, settlements or claim deadlines, speak with an Oregon attorney.
When to get medical care first
Go to the emergency room for head injury, loss of consciousness, severe neck or back pain, weakness, numbness, chest or abdominal pain, or trouble breathing after a crash.
Related reading
Dr. Jeff Devine practices at Form & Function Chiropractic, 3 Monroe Pkwy Ste G, Lake Oswego, OR 97035. Call (503) 495-3454.
This article is general education, not medical advice. It does not replace an exam by a licensed provider. If you have a medical emergency, call 911.