What I Tell Every Client After a Car Accident on the Treasure Coast

Getting into a car accident is overwhelming. I’ve seen it time and time again—one minute everything’s normal, and the next you’re on the side of the road, shaken, hurt, and unsure what to do next. It’s in those moments that people start making decisions that can either protect them or hurt their chances of recovery—both physically and legally.

Whether you're reading this just after a crash or you’re trying to help someone who’s been hurt, here’s what I tell every single client who walks through my door after a car accident:

Get Medical Attention—Even If You “Feel Fine”

Your adrenaline is pumping after a crash, which can mask serious injuries like concussions, internal trauma, or soft tissue damage. The very first step? Get checked out by a medical professional—either at the ER, urgent care, or your primary doctor.

Not only is this vital for your health, but it also creates a documented record of your injuries, which is crucial if you decide to pursue a personal injury claim.

Do Not Talk to the Insurance Company Without Legal Advice

This one is big. Insurance adjusters are trained to get you talking—to gather statements that can minimize your claim or shift blame. You are not required to give a recorded statement right away.

Before you talk to anyone from an insurance company (even your own), reach out to an experienced personal injury attorney. I offer free consultations for this exact reason—so you don’t walk into a conversation that could cost you.

Document Everything You Can

If you’re physically able, take photos of the scene, your injuries, the vehicles involved, and anything else that seems important—road conditions, traffic lights, etc. If witnesses are nearby, get their contact info.

Later, keep a file with every medical bill, appointment record, and any communication with insurance companies. The more documentation you have, the better.

Follow All Medical Advice and Keep Your Appointments

If a doctor tells you to rest, take time off, or go to physical therapy, follow through. Skipping appointments or ignoring advice can hurt your recovery and send the wrong message to insurers who are trying to assess the seriousness of your injury.

Insurance companies are quick to argue: “If you were really hurt, wouldn’t you be getting treatment?”

Call an Attorney Who Knows the Treasure Coast

Every accident is different—but the law doesn’t make exceptions for confusion or stress. You need someone who knows how to navigate the process, fight back when needed, and make sure you’re not stuck paying out of pocket for someone else’s mistake.

At Chatenka Injury Law, I take the time to listen. I don’t rush you, and I don’t treat you like just another case. I walk you through your rights, help you understand your options, and if you decide to move forward, I handle the hard stuff so you can focus on healing.

Final Thoughts: You Deserve Support, Not Stress

After an accident, you shouldn’t have to figure this out alone. If you’re hurting, overwhelmed, or unsure of what to do next, I’m here to help. My office serves injury victims all across the Treasure Coast—and we don’t charge a penny unless we win your case.

Call Chatenka Injury Law today for a free consultation.
Let’s talk about what happened, and let’s take the next step—together.