Being involved in a car accident can be overwhelming. Beyond dealing with damage to your vehicle, your health and recovery should be your first priority. At Texas Spine and Joint Rehabilitation, led by Dr. Daniel L. Pennell, D.C., we specialize in helping accident victims get the proper care they need after an injury. Knowing the correct steps to take immediately after an accident can make all the difference in your recovery and long-term health.

This guide will walk you through the essential steps to take after an auto accident and explain why working with an experienced accident doctor in Mesquite is critical to your healing process.

Step 1: Prioritize Safety and Call for Help

The first thing to do after an accident is ensure safety. Move your vehicle to a secure location if possible, and call emergency services right away. Even if you feel fine, adrenaline may mask serious injuries such as whiplash, back pain, or head trauma. Always allow medical professionals to evaluate you on the scene.

Step 2: Document the Accident

Before leaving the accident site, document as much information as possible. Take photos of the vehicles, road conditions, and any visible injuries. Exchange insurance and contact details with the other driver, and get the names of any witnesses. This information will be valuable for insurance claims, potential legal processes, and for your accident doctor in Mesquite to understand the circumstances of your injury.

Step 3: Seek Immediate Medical Evaluation

Many injuries, especially those involving the spine, neck, or soft tissue, don’t present symptoms immediately. Visiting an accident injury clinic such as Texas Spine and Joint Rehabilitation ensures that underlying problems are diagnosed before they worsen. Dr. Daniel L. Pennell, D.C. specializes in treating accident-related injuries and can create a treatment plan tailored to your needs.

Common injuries that may not show immediate signs include:

• Whiplash

• Concussions

• Herniated discs

• Soft tissue injuries

• Nerve damage

Prompt evaluation is not just important for your health—it also strengthens any legal or insurance claims by creating a record of your injury.

Step 4: Begin a Personalized Treatment Plan

At Texas Spine and Joint Rehabilitation, every patient receives a personalized recovery plan. Treatment may include chiropractic adjustments, physical therapy, and rehabilitation exercises designed to restore mobility, reduce pain, and promote healing. Dr. Pennell’s expertise ensures your recovery focuses on long-term results, not just short-term relief.

Step 5: Keep Detailed Records

Tracking your progress after an accident is crucial. Keep copies of all medical records, prescriptions, and rehabilitation updates. These documents will help your doctor monitor your recovery and may serve as valuable evidence if you’re pursuing a personal injury claim.

Step 6: Follow Through with Care

Healing from an auto accident is not a one-time event—it requires commitment. Skipping follow-up appointments or discontinuing treatment early can lead to chronic pain and reduced mobility. Following the full care plan designed by Dr. Daniel L. Pennell, D.C. ensures the best chance of complete recovery.

Why Choose Texas Spine and Joint Rehabilitation?

When searching for an accident doctor in Mesquite, patients want a clinic that understands both the medical and legal aspects of auto injuries. At Texas Spine and Joint Rehabilitation, we not only provide advanced chiropractic care but also work closely with attorneys and insurance companies to ensure your documentation is accurate and timely.

By choosing Dr. Pennell and his team, you gain access to:

• Decades of experience in treating accident injuries

• State-of-the-art rehabilitation techniques

• Compassionate care focused on your well-being

• Support in navigating insurance and legal processes

Questions & Answers About Auto Accident Care

Q: Why should I see an accident doctor even if I feel fine after a crash?
A: Many accident-related injuries, like whiplash or concussions, may not show symptoms right away. Visiting an accident doctor in Mesquite ensures hidden injuries are diagnosed early, preventing long-term complications.

Q: How soon after my accident should I visit Dr. Daniel L. Pennell, D.C.?
A: The sooner the better. Ideally, visit Texas Spine and Joint Rehabilitation within 24–48 hours after the accident. This helps your recovery and strengthens your medical documentation for insurance or legal needs.

Q: Can an accident doctor help with my insurance claim?
A: Yes. Proper documentation from Dr. Pennell provides crucial evidence for insurance companies and attorneys, helping support your case.

Q: What treatments are available for car accident injuries?
A: Treatments may include chiropractic adjustments, rehabilitation exercises, spinal decompression, and soft tissue therapy—all designed to reduce pain and restore function.

Q: What if I need ongoing care?
A: Texas Spine and Joint Rehabilitation offers comprehensive, long-term treatment options tailored to each patient’s needs. Ongoing care ensures you don’t develop chronic pain or recurring issues.

Take the Next Step Toward Recovery

If you’ve been in an accident, don’t wait for pain to set in before seeking help. Contact Texas Spine and Joint Rehabilitation today to schedule an appointment with Dr. Daniel L. Pennell, D.C.—your trusted accident doctor in Mesquite. Taking the right steps immediately after your injury can protect your health and your future.

Schedule an Appointment at:

(972) 629-9181

A Receptionist is Available

24 hours - 7 days a week