5 Things You Should Do After a Motor Vehicle Accident
Chiropractic Advice for Florida Residents
As a chiropractor serving the Greater Tampa, Temple Terrace, and University of South Florida (USF) communities, I’ve seen the long-term impact that even a “minor” motor vehicle accident can have on the body. Whether you were rear-ended in a parking lot or involved in a major car accident on I-275, your health should always come first — and early care makes all the difference.
Here are five important things to do following a car accident, based on my experience helping patients recover safely and fully.
1. Understand Florida’s 14-Day Rule
In the state of Florida, you only have 14 days to seek medical care after a motor vehicle accident if you want to use your Personal Injury Protection (PIP) benefits. This means it’s essential to get checked by a healthcare provider (like a chiropractor) quickly — or you may forfeit your right to have treatment covered.
2. Get Evaluated by a Chiropractor Immediately
Even if you don’t feel pain right away, your spine and muscles may have sustained trauma. Many car accident injuries — like whiplash, soft tissue damage, or spinal misalignment — don't present symptoms until days or even weeks later. At our office in Temple Terrace, we provide comprehensive post-accident evaluations to catch injuries early and start the healing process right away.
3. Document Your Symptoms and Progress
Keeping a journal of your symptoms, pain levels, and limitations can help support both your medical treatment and any insurance or legal claims. Our chiropractic team can provide detailed reports and progress updates as well as putting you in touch with our extensive network of physicians, physical therapist, cognitive therapist and imaging centers that reflect the true impact of your injuries.
4. Stay Active in Your Recovery Plan
Healing after a car accident isn’t just about rest — it's about targeted movement, spinal alignment, and soft tissue therapy. Our chiropractic care plans often include therapeutic exercises, spinal adjustments, and supportive therapies to help reduce inflammation and improve mobility.
5. Choose a Chiropractic Office That Specializes in Car Accidents
Not all providers are trained to handle auto injuries. At Pinnacle Chiropractic, we’ve helped countless patients from Tampa, Florida, and the surrounding areas recover from car accidents safely and naturally. From whiplash to back pain, we understand how to diagnose, document, and treat the injuries that matter most after a crash.
We’re Here to Help You Heal
If you’ve been in a motor vehicle accident, don’t wait for pain to take over your life. Reach out to Pinnacle Chiropractic today and schedule a comprehensive evaluation. We’ll help you feel better, move better, and recover with confidence.
