30Jun

Sternum Pain After Car Accident? Here’s What You Need to Know

If you’re experiencing sternum pain after a car accident, you’re not alone. This type of chest pain can be alarming—and for good reason. It may indicate a minor soft tissue injury or something more serious, like a fractured sternum or internal trauma. At Comprehensive Accident and Injury Center, we help patients throughout Delaware recover safely after a car crash with same-day evaluations, advanced diagnostics, and personalized treatment plans.

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What Causes Sternum Pain After a Car Accident?

The sternum, or breastbone, sits in the center of your chest and helps protect vital organs such as your heart and lungs. In a car accident, this area can be injured due to:

Seatbelt trauma (compression across the chest during impact)

Airbag deployment

Blunt force trauma from the steering wheel or dashboard

Sudden deceleration injuries causing internal strain

While a seatbelt saves lives, the force it applies during a collision can bruise or fracture the sternum. Even a minor accident can result in chest discomfort that should not be ignored.

Symptoms of Sternum Injury After a Crash

If you’re dealing with sternum pain after a car accident, you may experience:

Sharp or aching pain in the center of your chest

Pain when breathing deeply or coughing

Swelling or bruising over the breastbone

Discomfort when lying down or changing positions

Clicking or popping sensations in the chest

In more severe cases, you may also experience difficulty breathing or signs of internal bleeding—both of which require emergency medical attention.

Why Prompt Evaluation Is Critical

Because the sternum protects so many vital structures, any post-accident chest pain should be evaluated right away. Internal injuries such as cardiac contusions, pulmonary bruising, or even fractured ribs can mimic sternum pain and may worsen without treatment.

At Comprehensive Accident and Injury Center, we offer same-day diagnostic imaging, including X-rays and ultrasound, to identify the root cause of your pain. Our providers are experienced in trauma-related musculoskeletal injuries and can guide you through a tailored care plan focused on fast and effective healing.

What to Do If You’re Experiencing Sternum Pain

Seek medical care immediately. Don’t assume your pain is “normal” after an accident.
Avoid strenuous activity until cleared by a professional.
Apply ice to reduce swelling and take over-the-counter pain medication if advised.
Schedule a full evaluation at our Delaware clinic to rule out serious conditions.

We can document your injury thoroughly, which is also important if you’re involved in an insurance claim or personal injury case.

Expert Post-Accident Care in Delaware

Whether you’ve been in a major crash or a minor fender-bender, don’t ignore sternum pain. At Comprehensive Accident and Injury Center, we combine compassionate care with advanced diagnostics to support your recovery every step of the way. Let us help you heal quickly—and safely.

Call us today or use our online booking tool to schedule your same-day evaluation.

Dr. Jack Norsworthy

Dr. Jack Norsworthy is a Doctor of Chiropractic Medicine and Founder of the Comprehensive Accident and Injury Center. He's passionate about providing the highest quality of Chiropractic care in Delaware and surrounding communities. Check back for more updates from Doctor Norsworthy as he shares more information about musculoskeletal injuries, Chiropractic care, and healthy lifestyle habits.

Dr. Jack Norsworthy

Dr. Jack Norsworthy is a Doctor of Chiropractic Medicine and Founder of the Comprehensive Accident and Injury Center. He's passionate about providing the highest quality of Chiropractic care in Delaware and surrounding communities. Check back for more updates from Doctor Norsworthy as he shares more information about musculoskeletal injuries, Chiropractic care, and healthy lifestyle habits.

30Jun

What Happens If There Is No Police Report for a Car Accident in Delaware?

by Dr. Jack Norsworthy

Understand Your Rights. Protect Your Health.

After a car crash, your first instinct is probably to check yourself and your passengers for injuries—but what happens if no police report is filed? Many Delaware drivers find themselves in this situation, especially after a seemingly minor accident. If you’re wondering, what happens if there is no police report for a car accident, the answer can impact your insurance claim, legal standing, and even your physical recovery.

This page explains what Delaware law says about police reports, what the consequences are if one isn’t filed, and why it’s still important to seek medical care—even if you already went to the ER.

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Is a Police Report Legally Required in Delaware?

In the state of Delaware, a police report is required for accidents involving:

Personal injury

Death

Property damage estimated over $500

A hit-and-run

A driver under the influence

Delaware Code Title 21, § 4203 mandates that drivers must immediately report qualifying accidents to law enforcement. If police are not called to the scene, you are required to file a report with the Delaware Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) within 10 days if the crash caused injury, death, or significant property damage.

Failure to file a report can result in:

Fines

Complications with insurance claims

License suspension

Difficulty proving your case in court

What Happens If There Is No Police Report?

If a police report is not filed, several important problems can arise:

1. Insurance Challenges

Most insurance companies require a police report to process claims—especially if there is a dispute about who is at fault. Without it, they may:

Even your own insurance company may be limited in how much help they can provide without official documentation.

2. Legal Liability Concerns

If you plan to pursue compensation for medical bills, lost wages, or pain and suffering, the police report provides critical third-party evidence. Without it, your version of events may be harder to verify in court or during settlement negotiations.

3. Missed Medical Follow-Up

Even if the accident seemed minor, you might not feel the full effects for hours or days. Soft tissue injuries, concussions, whiplash, or spinal misalignments are common and can worsen if left untreated. Without a police report, it may also be harder to link your injuries directly to the accident, which is vital for injury claims.

What to Do If No Police Report Was Filed

Even if law enforcement wasn’t called or a report wasn’t filed at the time, there are still steps you can take to protect yourself:

File a Delayed Report

You can still file an accident report with the local police department or the Delaware DMV. Be prepared to provide:

Collect Your Own Evidence

Take photographs of the damage, road conditions, and any injuries. Gather witness statements and exchange insurance information with the other driver. This evidence can help substitute for the lack of an official report.

Date and time of the accident
Location of the crash
Vehicle information for all parties
Descriptions of what happened
Photos or videos, if available
Witness contact information

Get a Thorough Medical Evaluation

You may have gone to the emergency room—but ERs typically focus on life-threatening conditions. For a complete evaluation of your musculoskeletal system and hidden injuries, a comprehensive post-accident assessment is essential.

Come to Comprehensive Accident and Injury Center – Even If You Already Went to the Hospital

Hospitals often miss or overlook injuries that can have a long-term impact on your quality of life. At Comprehensive Accident and Injury Center in Newark, DE, we specialize in detecting and treating auto accident injuries that may not show symptoms right away.

Why Get a Second Medical Evaluation With Us?

We treat delayed-onset injuries like whiplash, back pain, joint dysfunction, and muscle strain

Our documentation helps support your legal or insurance case

We work with personal injury attorneys to make sure your rights are protected

We provide treatment plans customized to your injuries and recovery goals

Your recovery doesn’t stop at the ER. Let us help you feel whole again—physically and financially.

Common Injuries We Treat After an Auto Accident:

Neck pain and whiplash	Lower back pain
Sciatica	Concussions
Shoulder, hip, and knee injuries	Muscle stiffness and reduced mobility

We offer chiropractic care, physiotherapy, soft tissue therapy, and other non-invasive treatments to restore your health and get you back to living pain-free.

Serving Newark and All of Northern Delaware

Comprehensive Accident and Injury Center proudly serves Newark, Wilmington, Bear, Middletown, and the surrounding communities. We work with patients of all ages who have been in auto accidents—whether they filed a police report or not.

Don’t Wait. Your Health and Claim Depend on It.

If you’ve been in a car accident and no police report was filed, you’re not alone—and you’re not out of options. The sooner you act, the better your chance of a full recovery and a fair insurance settlement.

Call us today or book your post-accident evaluation online.
We accept most insurance plans and offer same-day appointments

Disclaimer:

The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and is not intended as legal advice. Comprehensive Accident and Injury Center is not a law firm, and our staff are not attorneys. If you have specific questions about your legal rights or responsibilities following a car accident in Delaware, we recommend consulting with a qualified personal injury attorney.

Dr. Jack Norsworthy

Dr. Jack Norsworthy is a Doctor of Chiropractic Medicine and Founder of the Comprehensive Accident and Injury Center. He's passionate about providing the highest quality of Chiropractic care in Delaware and surrounding communities. Check back for more updates from Doctor Norsworthy as he shares more information about musculoskeletal injuries, Chiropractic care, and healthy lifestyle habits.

Dr. Jack Norsworthy

Dr. Jack Norsworthy is a Doctor of Chiropractic Medicine and Founder of the Comprehensive Accident and Injury Center. He's passionate about providing the highest quality of Chiropractic care in Delaware and surrounding communities. Check back for more updates from Doctor Norsworthy as he shares more information about musculoskeletal injuries, Chiropractic care, and healthy lifestyle habits.

13Jun

Coughing or Shortness of Breath After a Car Accident? Here’s Why You Shouldn’t Ignore It

by Dr. Jack Norsworthy

After a car accident, your first thoughts may be about your vehicle or how the collision happened—but your health should always come first. If you’re experiencing coughing or shortness of breath after a car accident, it’s a red flag that something deeper may be wrong. Even if the crash seemed minor, internal injuries or trauma can manifest hours or even days later. Understanding what these symptoms could mean—and getting the right follow-up care—is crucial for your recovery.

At Comprehensive Accident and Injury Center, we specialize in diagnosing and treating auto accident injuries that emergency rooms often overlook. If you’ve recently visited the ER but still feel off—or you’re just now noticing symptoms—our team can help identify and treat the underlying issues.

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Complete the Form Below and We’ll Get Back to you Immediately.

What Causes Coughing After a Car Accident?

A sudden onset of coughing after a car accident can have several potential causes, ranging in severity. Here are the most common:

1. Lung Contusions (Bruised Lungs)

The impact from a car crash can bruise the lungs, especially if the chest hits the steering wheel, airbag, or seatbelt. A lung contusion can result in persistent coughing, pain when breathing, and reduced oxygen exchange.

2. Airbag or Seatbelt Trauma

Airbags deploy with significant force. While they save lives, they can also irritate the lungs or airways, especially if chemical residue is inhaled. Seatbelt injuries to the chest can also lead to inflammation or bruising that makes breathing uncomfortable and may trigger coughing.

3. Aspiration or Inhalation Injuries

In a traumatic crash, it’s possible to aspirate (inhale) blood, vomit, or debris. This can irritate the lungs and cause a cough that lingers or worsens over time.

4. Pneumothorax or Hemothorax

If coughing is accompanied by sharp chest pain or shortness of breath, it could be due to a collapsed lung (pneumothorax) or blood accumulation in the chest (hemothorax), both of which require immediate medical attention.

Why You Might Have Shortness of Breath After a Car Accident

Shortness of breath—also known as labored or shallow breathing—is another warning sign that something’s not right. It can be caused by:

1. Chest Wall Injuries

Broken ribs or a fractured sternum can restrict chest expansion, making each breath painful and difficult. This mechanical issue leads to shallow breathing, which can worsen over time if not treated.

2. Internal Organ Damage

Organs such as the lungs, heart, or diaphragm may be damaged during a high-impact collision. These injuries may not be immediately obvious but can significantly impair breathing.

3. Soft Tissue Inflammation

Even in the absence of broken bones, the muscles and connective tissue surrounding the lungs can become inflamed, making deep breaths painful and resulting in chronic shortness of breath.

4. Stress or Anxiety Response

Sometimes, the trauma of an accident triggers panic or anxiety, causing hyperventilation or a feeling of not being able to catch your breath. While psychological in nature, it still warrants evaluation to rule out physical causes.

First, Go to the ER — Then See a Car Accident Injury Specialist

If you’re having difficulty breathing or experience persistent coughing after a car accident, your first step should always be a visit to the emergency room. The ER is equipped to handle life-threatening injuries and stabilize your condition. However, emergency care typically stops after the immediate danger has passed.

That’s where we come in.

At Comprehensive Accident and Injury Center, we provide comprehensive follow-up care focused specifically on accident-related injuries. Our experienced physicians and therapists are trained to identify hidden injuries that ER doctors may miss during a rushed examination.

Why Follow-Up Care Is So Important

Many patients make the mistake of thinking, “If the ER discharged me, I must be fine.” But that’s not always the case. Some symptoms—like coughing or difficulty breathing—can develop or worsen after you’ve gone home.

Without proper diagnosis and treatment, what may start as minor discomfort can lead to:

At Comprehensive Accident and Injury Center, we take a multi-disciplinary approach to your care. Our services include:

Accident-specific physical exams and imaging

Advanced diagnostics to detect internal trauma or respiratory injuries

Pain management and rehabilitation

Comprehensive documentation for legal and insurance claims

Personalized recovery plans designed to restore your health fully—not just patch you up

Don’t Wait—Breathe Easier Knowing You’re in Expert Hands

If you’re experiencing coughing after a car accident or dealing with shortness of breath after a car accident, schedule a consultation with our team as soon as possible. These symptoms should never be ignored—they could be the sign of a serious issue.

You don’t have to manage this on your own. Let Comprehensive Accident and Injury Center be your partner in recovery. We’ll help you get back to breathing easy and living fully.

Contact Us Today to Schedule Your Post-Accident Evaluation.
Our experienced providers are here to help you breathe easier—literally.

Dr. Jack Norsworthy

Dr. Jack Norsworthy is a Doctor of Chiropractic Medicine and Founder of the Comprehensive Accident and Injury Center. He's passionate about providing the highest quality of Chiropractic care in Delaware and surrounding communities. Check back for more updates from Doctor Norsworthy as he shares more information about musculoskeletal injuries, Chiropractic care, and healthy lifestyle habits.

Dr. Jack Norsworthy

Dr. Jack Norsworthy is a Doctor of Chiropractic Medicine and Founder of the Comprehensive Accident and Injury Center. He's passionate about providing the highest quality of Chiropractic care in Delaware and surrounding communities. Check back for more updates from Doctor Norsworthy as he shares more information about musculoskeletal injuries, Chiropractic care, and healthy lifestyle habits.

29May

What Do Doctors Check After a Car Accident? A Complete Medical Breakdown from Injury Experts

by Dr. Jack Norsworthy

What Do Doctors Check After a Car Accident?

Inside the Full Medical Evaluation Process After a Collision

After a car crash—whether it’s a minor fender bender or a high-impact collision—it’s essential to seek medical attention immediately. Even if you “feel fine,” you may be suffering from injuries that won’t show symptoms for hours or even days. This leads many accident victims to ask, “What do doctors check after a car accident?”

At Comprehensive Accident and Injury Center, we specialize in post-collision evaluations and offer a thorough, head-to-toe assessment designed to uncover both obvious and hidden injuries. Below is a detailed look at what our highly trained car accident doctors check for—and why choosing a qualified provider makes all the difference in your recovery.

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Complete the Form Below and We’ll Get Back to you Immediately.

What Do Doctors Check After a Car Accident?

A Detailed List of Post-Accident Medical Evaluations

1. Initial Triage and Vital Signs

Doctors will first assess:

These vital signs can point to serious, systemic issues like internal bleeding, shock, or respiratory distress.

2. Head-to-Toe Physical Examination

This includes:

Doctors also look for telltale signs of common car accident injuries such as whiplash, back strain, sprains, or bruised ribs.

3. Neurological Screening

A crucial part of post-accident evaluations, this screening checks for:

These exams help uncover concussions, traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), or nerve damage, all of which may initially present with subtle or delayed symptoms.

4. Spinal and Musculoskeletal Assessment

Because auto collisions commonly result in back and neck trauma, we assess:

Whiplash is one of the most frequent injuries from rear-end accidents and can cause chronic pain if left untreated. Our clinicians are skilled at diagnosing this soft-tissue injury early and accurately.

5. Orthopedic Evaluation

Our team evaluates:

Even low-speed collisions can lead to orthopedic issues like knee trauma, shoulder impingement, or hip misalignment due to seatbelt and airbag impact.

6. Soft Tissue Injury Review

Soft tissue injuries often don't appear on X-rays, but they can be debilitating. We assess for:

Pain, stiffness, and swelling are common, and these injuries may require manual therapy, chiropractic care, or physical rehabilitation for full recovery.

7. Evaluation for Internal Injuries

While Comprehensive Accident and Injury Center does not offer imaging services like MRIs or CT scans, our experienced providers conduct careful examinations to determine whether you may need further testing elsewhere. Signs of internal injury may include:

If we suspect internal trauma, we will refer you to the appropriate facility for advanced imaging or emergency care.

8. Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) and Concussion Screening

Brain injuries are often overlooked after an accident. Our team checks for:

These symptoms can indicate a concussion or TBI, which should be treated promptly to avoid long-term cognitive problems. We provide screening and appropriate referrals if more advanced care is needed.

9. Mental Health and Psychological Status

While we do not provide psychological services, our team is trained to recognize signs of:

If psychological support is needed, we will refer you to a mental health provider for counseling or therapy.

Why Choosing the Right Accident Doctor Matters

Most urgent care centers and ERs only treat immediate symptoms like broken bones or lacerations. But what about hidden injuries that can lead to long-term pain and dysfunction?

At Comprehensive Accident and Injury Center, our doctors are specialists in post-collision care. We understand the complex forces involved in a car accident and how they affect the body. We go beyond the surface to uncover:

Our holistic, evidence-based approach ensures nothing gets missed—and that your recovery is not only fast, but complete.

Comprehensive Treatment for Car Accident Victims

While we don’t offer MRIs, CT scans, or psychological treatment at our facility, we do provide complete physical assessments and evidence-based treatment protocols for a wide range of accident-related injuries. Services at Comprehensive Accident and Injury Center include:

Chiropractic care for spinal injuries

Soft tissue therapy and manual manipulation

Physical rehabilitation and strength restoration

Injury documentation for legal and insurance purposes

Medical referrals when advanced imaging or psychological care is needed

Don’t Wait—Get the Complete Care You Deserve

If you’ve been in an auto accident—even a minor one—delaying care can make injuries worse. The sooner you’re evaluated, the sooner we can start your path to healing. At Comprehensive Accident and Injury Center, we specialize in treating car accident injuries with a focus on thorough diagnosis, personalized care, and long-term wellness.

Call today to schedule your post-accident evaluation.

Dr. Jack Norsworthy

Dr. Jack Norsworthy is a Doctor of Chiropractic Medicine and Founder of the Comprehensive Accident and Injury Center. He's passionate about providing the highest quality of Chiropractic care in Delaware and surrounding communities. Check back for more updates from Doctor Norsworthy as he shares more information about musculoskeletal injuries, Chiropractic care, and healthy lifestyle habits.

Dr. Jack Norsworthy

Dr. Jack Norsworthy is a Doctor of Chiropractic Medicine and Founder of the Comprehensive Accident and Injury Center. He's passionate about providing the highest quality of Chiropractic care in Delaware and surrounding communities. Check back for more updates from Doctor Norsworthy as he shares more information about musculoskeletal injuries, Chiropractic care, and healthy lifestyle habits.

27May

Do Insurance Plans Like Medicare, Medicaid, and Blue Cross Cover Car Accident Injuries?

by Dr. Jack Norsworthy

Do Insurance Plans Like Medicare, Medicaid, and Blue Cross Cover Car Accident Injuries?

After a car accident, one of the most confusing parts of recovery is figuring out how your medical expenses will be covered—especially if you’re insured through Medicare, Medicaid, or Blue Cross Blue Shield. At Comprehensive Accident and Injury Center, we help patients navigate these questions every day. Let’s break down how each type of insurance typically handles car accident-related medical care.

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Does Medicare Cover Car Accident Injuries?

If you’re enrolled in Medicare, it’s important to understand how this federal program applies to auto accident injuries. Yes, Medicare may cover injuries from a car accident, but it is considered a secondary payer. That means if there’s any other party responsible for the accident (such as an auto insurance provider), Medicare will expect that source to pay first.

If no other coverage is available, Medicare may pay for:

Emergency room visits

Ambulance services

Hospital stays

Follow-up treatments, including physical therapy and chiropractic care (if deemed medically necessary)

However, beneficiaries must be cautious—any payments Medicare makes may later be reimbursable if a settlement or third-party liability payment is received.

Does Medicaid Cover Car Accident Injuries?

Medicaid is a state-administered program, so coverage details can vary, but in general, Medicaid does pay for car accident injuries if no other insurance is responsible. Like Medicare, Medicaid typically acts as a secondary payer and may pursue reimbursement if you win a personal injury settlement.

Services that may be covered include:

If you’re a Medicaid recipient injured in a car crash, it’s vital to work with a clinic familiar with accident-related billing. At Comprehensive Accident and Injury Center, we ensure proper documentation and help you avoid unnecessary out-of-pocket costs.

Does Medicare Cover Injuries from a Car Accident?

This is a common question that patients ask, and the answer aligns with what was noted above: Medicare does cover injuries from a car accident, but only after all other insurance options have been exhausted. If you’re unsure whether your accident qualifies for Medicare coverage, our billing specialists can verify your benefits and help you understand your rights and obligations.

Does Blue Cross Cover Car Accident Injuries?

Blue Cross Blue Shield plans typically do cover injuries sustained in a car accident. However, specific policy terms can vary depending on your employer plan, state, or individual coverage type. You may be required to:

File a claim with your auto insurance first

Submit documentation related to fault or liability

Use in-network providers to avoid higher costs

At Comprehensive Accident and Injury Center, we accept many Blue Cross Blue Shield plans and will coordinate with your auto and health insurance carriers to streamline your care.

Why You Still Need to Visit Comprehensive Accident and Injury Center—Even After a Hospital Visit

Many people assume that if they’ve been checked out at the ER, they’re in the clear. But hospitals often focus on life-threatening injuries and visible trauma. What they may not detect are the soft tissue injuries, joint misalignments, and delayed-onset symptoms that commonly appear hours or even days later.

That’s where Comprehensive Accident and Injury Center steps in.

Our Comprehensive Post-Accident Evaluation Can Detect:

Whiplash and soft tissue strain
Concussions and neurological issues
Hidden spinal misalignments
Early signs of chronic pain conditions
Inflammation and microtrauma that don’t show up on initial scans

Even if you feel “fine” right after your accident, adrenaline and shock can mask symptoms. Delaying care can lead to long-term complications, and worse—can make it harder to file an insurance or injury claim later if needed.

At our center, we offer:

Advanced diagnostics beyond what you’ll find at most ERs

Personalized treatment plans tailored for accident recovery

On-site rehab and chiropractic care

Why Choose Comprehensive Accident and Injury Center?

Navigating insurance after a crash can be overwhelming. Our multidisciplinary team provides compassionate care along with professional support to help you:

We work with accident attorneys, insurers, and medical providers to ensure you get the care you need—without the stress.

Schedule Your Post-Accident Evaluation Today

Your body may be telling you you’re fine—but hidden injuries often say otherwise. Don’t wait until symptoms get worse. Contact Comprehensive Accident and Injury Center today to schedule your thorough accident evaluation and begin your personalized recovery plan.

Dr. Jack Norsworthy

Dr. Jack Norsworthy is a Doctor of Chiropractic Medicine and Founder of the Comprehensive Accident and Injury Center. He's passionate about providing the highest quality of Chiropractic care in Delaware and surrounding communities. Check back for more updates from Doctor Norsworthy as he shares more information about musculoskeletal injuries, Chiropractic care, and healthy lifestyle habits.

Dr. Jack Norsworthy

Dr. Jack Norsworthy is a Doctor of Chiropractic Medicine and Founder of the Comprehensive Accident and Injury Center. He's passionate about providing the highest quality of Chiropractic care in Delaware and surrounding communities. Check back for more updates from Doctor Norsworthy as he shares more information about musculoskeletal injuries, Chiropractic care, and healthy lifestyle habits.

20May

How Long Does It Take to Mentally Recover from a Car Accident?

by Dr. Jack Norsworthy

Car Accidents Don’t Just Hurt Physically—They Leave Mental Scars, Too

In the aftermath of a car accident, it’s common to focus on physical injuries like whiplash, back pain, or soft tissue damage. But for many people, the emotional and mental effects can be just as debilitating—sometimes even more so. If you’re asking, how long does it take to mentally recover from a car accident, you’re not alone. Mental recovery can be a slow, unpredictable process that deserves just as much attention as your physical healing.

At Comprehensive Accident and Injury Center, we specialize in helping patients recover from the physical effects of car accidents. While we do not offer mental health counseling, we recognize the importance of addressing emotional trauma and encourage our patients to seek professional support when needed. Our team provides chiropractic care, physical therapy, x-ray imaging, and a variety of other rehabilitative services that play a crucial role in the overall recovery process.

Get Appointment

Complete the Form Below and We’ll Get Back to you Immediately.

The Mental Impact of Car Accidents: What to Expect

Even a low-speed collision can disrupt more than just your day—it can shake your sense of safety, your confidence behind the wheel, and your emotional stability. Common psychological symptoms following a car accident include:

Persistent anxiety or fear, especially while driving

Nightmares or intrusive memories of the accident

Trouble sleeping or relaxing

Mood swings, irritability, or emotional numbness

Difficulty concentrating or making decisions

Withdrawal from social situations

For some, these symptoms fade over time. For others, they persist and may point to a more serious condition such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Recognizing these signs early and getting appropriate help is essential.

So, How Long Does It Take to Mentally Recover from a Car Accident?

There is no one-size-fits-all answer. Mental recovery depends on a wide range of personal and situational factors, including the severity of the accident, whether there were injuries or fatalities involved, your past experiences with trauma, and the level of support you have around you.

Here’s a general idea of the mental recovery timeline:

Mild Emotional Trauma: Individuals experiencing low levels of stress or anxiety may begin to feel better within a few weeks to two months, especially if they have strong support networks and no underlying mental health concerns.
Moderate Psychological Impact: Symptoms like driving anxiety or avoidance behaviors may persist for 3 to 6 months. Therapy or counseling may be helpful to regain emotional stability and confidence.
Severe Trauma or PTSD: For those with more intense symptoms, recovery can take a year or longer, often requiring regular sessions with a licensed therapist, support groups, and sometimes medication to manage symptoms.

Physical Recovery and Mental Health Go Hand in Hand

Although we don’t provide direct mental health services at Comprehensive Accident and Injury Center, our mission is to help you heal physically—and that process can significantly support your mental and emotional well-being. When your body is in pain, it often worsens stress, anxiety, and depression. That’s why we take a whole-body approach to physical recovery after a car accident.

Our services include:

Chiropractic Care: Gentle, non-invasive adjustments to relieve joint pain, spinal misalignment, and nerve impingement commonly caused by car accidents.

Physical Therapy: Customized rehabilitation plans designed to restore mobility, improve strength, and reduce pain so you can return to normal daily activities.

X-Ray Imaging: On-site diagnostic tools that help us accurately assess internal injuries and develop a personalized treatment plan.

Soft Tissue Therapy and Rehab Programs: Targeted treatments for whiplash, back strain, neck stiffness, and other common post-accident conditions.

By reducing physical discomfort and helping patients regain mobility and strength, our care can indirectly support emotional recovery. When your body begins to heal, your mind often follows.

When Should You Seek Professional Help for Mental Health?

While many individuals gradually recover emotionally after a car accident, there are times when professional help is essential. You should consider speaking with a mental health professional if:

You are avoiding driving or riding in a car due to fear
You are reliving the accident through flashbacks or nightmares
Your work, school, or personal relationships are suffering
You feel constantly on edge, depressed, or emotionally numb
You notice little or no improvement in your mental state after several weeks

Mental health is just as important as physical health. Seeking counseling, therapy, or even medication (when needed) can make a life-changing difference.

Comprehensive Care for Car Accident Victims in Bear, DE

At Comprehensive Accident and Injury Center, we are proud to serve patients throughout Bear, Newark, Middletown, and surrounding Delaware communities. If you’ve recently been involved in a car accident, our experienced providers are here to help you recover from your physical injuries safely and effectively.

While we don’t provide mental health counseling, we support a holistic view of recovery and encourage every patient to take their emotional well-being seriously. If you’re still asking how long does it take to mentally recover from a car accident, know that healing is possible—and you don’t have to go through it alone.

Let us help you take the first step toward physical recovery. Your body—and your mind—will thank you.

Dr. Jack Norsworthy

Dr. Jack Norsworthy is a Doctor of Chiropractic Medicine and Founder of the Comprehensive Accident and Injury Center. He's passionate about providing the highest quality of Chiropractic care in Delaware and surrounding communities. Check back for more updates from Doctor Norsworthy as he shares more information about musculoskeletal injuries, Chiropractic care, and healthy lifestyle habits.

Dr. Jack Norsworthy

Dr. Jack Norsworthy is a Doctor of Chiropractic Medicine and Founder of the Comprehensive Accident and Injury Center. He's passionate about providing the highest quality of Chiropractic care in Delaware and surrounding communities. Check back for more updates from Doctor Norsworthy as he shares more information about musculoskeletal injuries, Chiropractic care, and healthy lifestyle habits.

Author: Dr. Jack Norsworthy

Sternum Pain After Car Accident? Here’s What You Need to Know

Get Appointment

What Causes Sternum Pain After a Car Accident?

Seatbelt trauma (compression across the chest during impact)

Airbag deployment

Blunt force trauma from the steering wheel or dashboard

Sudden deceleration injuries causing internal strain

Symptoms of Sternum Injury After a Crash

Why Prompt Evaluation Is Critical

What to Do If You’re Experiencing Sternum Pain

Expert Post-Accident Care in Delaware

Dr. Jack Norsworthy

Dr. Jack Norsworthy

What Happens If There Is No Police Report for a Car Accident in Delaware?

Understand Your Rights. Protect Your Health.

Get Appointment

Is a Police Report Legally Required in Delaware?

Personal injury

Death

Property damage estimated over $500

A hit-and-run

A driver under the influence

Fines

Complications with insurance claims

License suspension

Difficulty proving your case in court

What Happens If There Is No Police Report?

1. Insurance Challenges

2. Legal Liability Concerns

3. Missed Medical Follow-Up

What to Do If No Police Report Was Filed

File a Delayed Report

Collect Your Own Evidence

Get a Thorough Medical Evaluation

Come to Comprehensive Accident and Injury Center – Even If You Already Went to the Hospital

Why Get a Second Medical Evaluation With Us?

Common Injuries We Treat After an Auto Accident:

Serving Newark and All of Northern Delaware

Don’t Wait. Your Health and Claim Depend on It.

Dr. Jack Norsworthy

Dr. Jack Norsworthy

Coughing or Shortness of Breath After a Car Accident? Here’s Why You Shouldn’t Ignore It

Get Appointment

What Causes Coughing After a Car Accident?

1. Lung Contusions (Bruised Lungs)

2. Airbag or Seatbelt Trauma

3. Aspiration or Inhalation Injuries

4. Pneumothorax or Hemothorax

Why You Might Have Shortness of Breath After a Car Accident

1. Chest Wall Injuries

2. Internal Organ Damage

3. Soft Tissue Inflammation

4. Stress or Anxiety Response

First, Go to the ER — Then See a Car Accident Injury Specialist

Why Follow-Up Care Is So Important

Don’t Wait—Breathe Easier Knowing You’re in Expert Hands

Dr. Jack Norsworthy

Dr. Jack Norsworthy

What Do Doctors Check After a Car Accident? A Complete Medical Breakdown from Injury Experts

What Do Doctors Check After a Car Accident?

Get Appointment

What Do Doctors Check After a Car Accident?

A Detailed List of Post-Accident Medical Evaluations

1. Initial Triage and Vital Signs

2. Head-to-Toe Physical Examination

3. Neurological Screening

4. Spinal and Musculoskeletal Assessment

5. Orthopedic Evaluation

6. Soft Tissue Injury Review

7. Evaluation for Internal Injuries

8. Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) and Concussion Screening

9. Mental Health and Psychological Status

Why Choosing the Right Accident Doctor Matters

Comprehensive Treatment for Car Accident Victims

Don’t Wait—Get the Complete Care You Deserve

Dr. Jack Norsworthy

Dr. Jack Norsworthy

Do Insurance Plans Like Medicare, Medicaid, and Blue Cross Cover Car Accident Injuries?

Do Insurance Plans Like Medicare, Medicaid, and Blue Cross Cover Car Accident Injuries?