Car accidents happen every day on Highway 98, I-10, and throughout Baldwin County. Even minor collisions can cause serious injuries that don't show symptoms for hours or even days. If you've been in an accident in Spanish Fort, Daphne, Fairhope, or anywhere on the Eastern Shore, here's exactly what to do to protect your health and your rights.
Step 1: Check for Injuries at the Scene
Immediately after the accident, check yourself and all passengers for obvious injuries. Call 911 if anyone is hurt. Even if you feel fine, understand that adrenaline masks pain. Many of the most common car accident injuries — whiplash, herniated discs, and soft tissue damage — don't produce symptoms right away.
Step 2: Document Everything
Exchange insurance information with the other driver. Take photos of both vehicles, the road, and any visible injuries. Get a police report number. This documentation is essential for both your medical treatment and your insurance claim.
Step 3: Get Evaluated Within 24–48 Hours
This is the most important step most people skip. You need a professional evaluation even if you feel fine. The reason: soft tissue injuries and spinal misalignments from the impact often take 24 to 72 hours to produce symptoms. By the time you feel pain, the injury has already begun the process of becoming a chronic condition.
At Malbis Chiropractic, we specialize in identifying the full scope of auto accident injuries before they become permanent. Dr. Meredith Addess performs a thorough evaluation covering your spine, soft tissue, nerve function, and range of motion to catch everything — including the injuries you can't feel yet.
We bill your auto insurance directly — meaning most patients pay absolutely nothing out of pocket. You don't need to wait for a claim to be settled before starting care. Call (251) 625-4777 to get seen today.
Step 4: Understand Your Insurance Coverage
In Alabama, your auto insurance policy includes coverage for medical treatment after an accident. At Malbis Chiropractic, we bill your auto insurance directly — meaning most patients pay absolutely nothing out of pocket for their treatment. You don't need to wait for a claim to be settled before starting care.
Step 5: Follow Your Treatment Plan
Consistency is everything in recovering from auto injuries. Dr. Meredith Addess will create a personalized treatment plan that may include chiropractic adjustments, physical therapy, and MLS laser therapy — depending on your specific injuries. Patients who follow their full treatment plan have significantly better outcomes than those who stop once the pain decreases.
Don't Wait — Call Malbis Chiropractic Today
If you've been in a car accident in Spanish Fort, Daphne, Fairhope, or anywhere in Baldwin County, call us at (251) 625-4777. We prioritize accident patients and can often get you seen the same day. Your health — and your claim — depends on acting quickly.