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4 Steps to Take After a Car Accident in Virginia Beach (Even If You Feel Fine)

No one expects a relaxing drive along the Virginia Beach Oceanfront or I-264 to end in a collision. However, every day, crashes occur across Hampton Roads, often leaving drivers unsure of what to do after a car accident in Virginia Beach. Even if you feel fine, the hours and days after a wreck can be confusing and stressful.

Knowing what to do after a car accident in Virginia Beach can protect your health, your legal rights, and your ability to recover fair compensation. At The Law Firm of Carlton F. Bennett, we’ve guided clients through this process for over 50 years. We understand that in the confusion that follows a crash, small decisions can have long-term consequences.

That’s why we’ve outlined this practical car accident checklist with four essential steps to take after a crash, even if you don’t believe you’re seriously hurt. These actions can help safeguard your well-being and strengthen any future injury claim.

1. Check for Injuries and Call 911

The first thing you should do after any crash is assess whether anyone is injured. Even if the vehicles appear drivable and everyone insists they’re fine, it’s always best to call 911. Emergency medical personnel can identify hidden injuries like internal bleeding, whiplash, or concussions, all of which might not show symptoms immediately.

When police arrive, provide calm, factual answers. Their accident report becomes critical evidence if you later need to prove fault or seek compensation. Don’t speculate or assign blame. Let investigators do their job while you focus on safety.

What not to do after a car accident:

• Don’t apologize or admit fault, even casually;
• Don’t agree to “handle it privately,” instead of filing a police report; and
• Don’t leave the scene until authorities clear you to go.

Those early interactions set the tone for your entire claim, so it’s crucial to stay composed and protect your rights.

2. Exchange Information and Document the Scene

Once it’s safe to do so, exchange contact and insurance information with all drivers and passengers involved. You should collect:

• Full names, phone numbers, and driver’s license numbers;
• Insurance provider and policy details;
• Vehicle registration and license plate numbers; and
• Contact information for witnesses.

Next, use your phone to take photos and videos that capture everything, including vehicle damage, skid marks, debris, road conditions, and weather. Document injuries and the surrounding area, including traffic signals and intersections.

The more detailed your evidence, the stronger your case becomes. These images and notes can prove invaluable when you file an insurance claim or if the at-fault driver later disputes your version of events.

Remember: Memory fades quickly after an accident. Taking just a few minutes to record what you see can make a significant difference later.

3. Get a Medical Evaluation, Even If You Feel Fine

It’s common to feel “lucky” after walking away from a collision, but adrenaline often masks pain. Many clients come to us days or weeks later when stiffness, dizziness, or headaches finally appear. By then, valuable medical evidence may already be missing.

That’s why one of the most important steps to take after a car crash is seeing a doctor as soon as possible. A thorough exam can:

• Identify injuries early, before they worsen;
• Create medical records that link your symptoms directly to the crash; and
• Strengthen your personal injury claim.

Be sure to attend all follow-up appointments and keep copies of all tests, prescriptions, and medical bills. Consistent documentation shows that you took your injuries seriously.

If you delay care, the insurance company may use that gap in treatment to reduce or deny your claim. Protect yourself by getting checked right away, even for what seem like minor aches.

4. Speak with an Attorney Before Talking to the Insurance Company

After the crash, you’ll likely get a call from an insurance adjuster. They may sound friendly or sympathetic, but their job is to save their company money. They’ll often ask for recorded statements or offer quick settlements that undervalue your claim.

Before you sign anything or agree to a payout, talk to an experienced car accident attorney. We’ve been handling severe injury cases in Virginia Beach for more than five decades. Our role is to help you avoid being pressured into accepting less than you deserve.

We will:

• Handle all communications with insurers,
• Evaluate whether the settlement offer reflects the actual value of your losses, and
• Gather evidence and negotiate aggressively for fair compensation.

And, if your case requires litigation, we’ll be ready to build a case and fight for you in court. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Before you take your next step, review these answers to some of the most common questions we receive from Virginia Beach drivers after a crash.

Can I Still Be Injured After a Car Accident If I Feel Fine?

Yes. Soft-tissue injuries, concussions, and spinal damage may not appear right away. You might feel fine at the scene but experience pain or dizziness hours or days later. Always consult a doctor, as early treatment can prevent complications and strengthen your claim.

How Long Do I Have to See a Doctor After a Car Accident in Virginia?

There’s no official deadline, but you should visit a doctor within 24 to 48 hours whenever possible. Waiting too long gives insurers a reason to question whether the crash truly caused your injuries.

Should I Report a Minor Car Accident in Virginia Beach If There’s No Visible Damage?

Yes. Even minor collisions should be reported to law enforcement and your insurance provider. What appears to be a small dent may actually conceal serious frame damage, and hidden injuries could develop later. A police report also provides crucial documentation.

What If I Didn’t Feel Hurt at the Scene but Pain Showed up Days Later?

You should seek medical attention immediately and tell the doctor when your pain began. Explain that it started after your accident. Delayed symptoms are common, and prompt medical documentation ties your injury directly to the crash.

Do I Need a Lawyer If the Accident Seemed Minor and I Feel Okay?

Yes. Even a “minor” crash can cause injuries or lead to expensive medical treatment later. Speaking with a lawyer early can improve your chances of meeting all deadlines, preserving evidence, and preventing insurance companies from taking advantage of your uncertainty.

Let Our 50 Years of Experience Work for You

If you’re unsure what to do after a car accident in Virginia Beach, remember that you don’t have to face the process alone. At The Law Firm of Carlton F. Bennett, we’ve spent over 50 years helping injured Virginians recover physically, emotionally, and financially after serious crashes.

Our team focuses on high-value personal injury and wrongful death cases, and we understand how stressful it is to juggle medical care, insurance calls, and mounting expenses. When you come to us, you can take comfort in knowing that we handle every detail, so you can focus on healing. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.