First 72 hours after a crash

Here are the top 10 critical actions to take within the first 72 hours after an auto accident:

1. Document the Crash Scene with Extensive Photos

   • Take clear photos and videos of all vehicle damage (close-ups and wide shots), skid marks, broken glass, road conditions, traffic signs, and any visible physical injuries (bruises, cuts, or seatbelt burns).

2. File the Oregon DMV Accident Report (Form 735-32)

   • Complete and submit your Oregon Traffic Collision and Insurance Report via the DMV2U portal or by mail/fax within 72 hours if anyone was injured or total damage exceeds $2,500. (Filing a police report at the scene does not exempt you from this statutory duty). This literally takes about 5 minutes.

3. Get Evaluated at Urgent Care, ER, or Your Primary Care Physician (PCP)

   • Visit an Urgent Care clinic, Emergency Room, or PCP immediately to rule out acute fractures, internal bleeding, or severe head trauma, and to establish an official medical record connecting your symptoms to the crash. Since most PCPs cannot get you in same day, just present to the Urgent Care nearest your home or work. Early mornings are your best bet, appointment times near closing are difficult to get.

4. Establish Diagnostic Imaging (X-Rays & Imaging Baseline)

   • Ensure diagnostic X-rays or CT scans are performed to screen for structural instability, bone fractures, or joint dislocations before beginning physical therapy or active rehabilitation. InterState Medical Group can take same day x-rays before care even begins.

5. Open Your Oregon Personal Injury Protection (PIP) Auto Claim | File a PIP application for medical benefits

   • Report the accident to your own auto insurance company to open a PIP claim. Even if the accident is not your fault. Your insurance company insures you. They will seek reimbursement from the at fault insurance company when your case is closed. Under Oregon law (ORS 742.520), your auto insurance covers a minimum of $15,000 in no-fault medical expenses for up to two years, regardless of who caused the collision. If you are the bread-winner in your household, double or even triple your PIP benefits. Trust me, and thank us later for this advice.

6. Schedule an Initial Consultation with an InterState Medical Group Disc Centers of Salem Personal Injury Clinic

   • Transition from emergency triage to conservative rehabilitation by seeing InterState Medical Group specializing in auto trauma (combining medical oversight, chiropractic care, and licensed massage therapy) to manage soft-tissue damage and whiplash early.

7. Obtain Diagnostic Imaging Reports & Hospital Records

   • Request copies of your ER/Urgent Care discharge papers, prescription records, and radiology reports (X-rays/CT scans) so your follow-up rehab team has complete visibility into your initial condition. InterState Medical Group will request all your records when you fill out your intake.

8. Start a Daily Symptom & Functional Limitation Log

   • Keep a written or digital journal tracking delayed symptoms (neck stiffness, headaches, lower back pain, numbness) and daily functional impacts, such as sitting limits at work, difficulty lifting, or interrupted sleep.

9. Secure Witness Information & Police Incident Numbers

   • Gather names, phone numbers, and statements from any eyewitnesses, and obtain the responding police officer’s name, badge number, and crash report incident number. Ask for witness testimonies within a few days of the auto accident so they don’t forget key details.

10. Safeguard Communications & Decline Recorded Statements

    • Report factual details to your own insurer, but decline to give recorded statements to the at-fault driver’s insurance adjuster until you have completed full medical evaluations and understood the scope of your injuries. Tell them you are seeking counsel and need some time before you can provide a recorded statement.