What to Do After a Car Accident in Oregon: Patient Guide

Clinically reviewed by Dr. Seth Hill, DC, President, Auto Injury Chiropractic. Last reviewed October 2026.

The hours and days after a car accident are stressful. Here is a checklist for Oregon drivers: what to do at the scene, what to do next, and how to protect your health and your insurance claim.

At the scene

Check for injuries and get to safety. Call 911 if anyone is hurt.
Exchange names, insurance, license plates, and contact details.
Take photos of the vehicles, the scene, and any visible injuries.
Get a police report when you can. It helps your claim.

File the Oregon accident report

Oregon law requires drivers to file an Oregon Traffic Collision and Insurance Report with the DMV within 72 hours if anyone was injured or killed, if damage to the vehicle you were driving is over $2,500, if any vehicle is damaged over $2,500 and any vehicle is towed from the scene, or if damage to other property is over $2,500. A police report at the scene does not replace this driver-filed report (DMV Form 735-32), and failing to file it can lead to suspension of your driving privileges. When in doubt, file it.

The first 72 hours

This is the part most people miss. Adrenaline can hide injuries, especially whiplash, neck pain, and back strain, for one to three days. Get evaluated even if you feel fine. Go to the ER or call 911 first for severe head or neck pain, weakness or numbness on one side, confusion, repeated vomiting or loss of consciousness. Every auto-injury exam at our clinics includes a concussion screen. An early exam catches injuries before they get worse and creates the documentation your claim depends on.

Handling the insurance side

Notify your auto insurer and open your PIP claim. You do not need to settle anything quickly, and you should not until you understand the full extent of your injuries. Keep records of every appointment, symptom, and expense. We bill PIP directly and keep your treatment records organized for adjusters and attorneys. This page is general information, not legal advice.

Getting the right care

Crash injuries are usually soft-tissue and spinal, which is what chiropractic care, therapeutic massage, and rehab address. We treat car-accident injuries every day, with same-day appointments and the paperwork handled for you.

Care at all three clinics

We offer same-day appointments in Oregon City, Milwaukie, and Troutdale, with licensed massage therapists on staff. After a car accident in Oregon, your PIP coverage typically covers reasonable and necessary care. We bill your PIP claim directly and verify your coverage before your first visit. Book a visit and we will get you in.