Frequently Asked Questions on Accident Care in Scottsdale

Frequently Asked Questions

After an Accident

What should I do if I’ve just had an accident or injury?

An accident always arrives as a surprise, and usually as chaos. We recommend preparing yourself in advance and being ready to do a few simple things immediately afterward:

‍Call the police, and an ambulance if necessary.
Even if you feel uninjured, it is important for insurance purposes to have a police report of the accident.

‍Take pictures.
Your phone is already in your pocket, so make sure you photograph the accident scene, your vehicle, and where relevant, your injuries. Those images often prove useful for insurance purposes.

‍Call your insurance provider.
Your insurance provider has processes for auto accidents. Notify them as soon as you possibly can after the collision so they can begin working on your behalf.

‍Call us and make an appointment.
Even if you are unsure about the extent of your injuries, or whether you are injured at all, you still need a doctor to check you over. Some injuries develop over days and are not noticeable at once.

If an accident seems minor and someone doesn’t feel pain right away, should they still call the police?

Yes, calling the police after a car accident is generally a good idea, even when it seems minor and nobody feels pain right away. Here are a few reasons why:

Documentation: The police can create an official accident report, which can be important for insurance claims and legal purposes. This report will include details about the accident, statements from those involved, and any potential witnesses.
Delayed Symptoms: Injuries from car accidents can sometimes manifest hours or even days later. Having a police report can be crucial if medical issues arise later on.
Liability and Insurance: Even in minor accidents, issues around fault and liability can arise. A police report can help clarify what happened and support your case with the insurance company.
Legal Requirements: In some jurisdictions, you’re legally required to report accidents to the police, even if they seem minor
Avoiding Disputes: Without a police report, there might be disputes later about the details of the accident, such as the extent of damage or who was at fault.

What's the most important thing to do right after a crash?

The number one tip following an auto accident is to make sure everyone is safe. After a collision, it is important to move your vehicle somewhere safe if possible and check everyone for injuries. If anyone is seriously hurt, call 911 immediately.

Once everyone is safe, it is important to gather as much information as possible at the scene. Exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver or drivers involved in the accident. Photograph the damage to all vehicles involved, along with any visible injuries.

Why is it important to get seen by a doctor immediately following your auto accident?

Seeing a doctor immediately after an auto accident matters for early detection of injuries, medical documentation, legal protection, and your overall health and well-being.

Appointments & Visits

How do I make an appointment?

You can call us at (480) 712-8000 to schedule your appointment or book online through our website. Walk-in appointments are available as well.

How long does a typical visit take?

We can typically see you the same day or the next day. During your visit you will be evaluated by a licensed physician, you will receive any necessary imaging (X-ray, CT), you will receive prescribed therapeutic treatment, and you will leave with medication if necessary.

Please allow 90 minutes for your first visit, covering the full process of check-in, evaluation, imaging, and therapeutic treatment. Follow-up visits for therapeutic treatment and reevaluation typically take 30 to 60 minutes.

What do I need to bring with me to my appointment?

It is important to bring all relevant information with you on your first visit. That includes your ID, your claim number if you have one, and any documentation of attorney representation.

What do I do about my job after a car accident?

Dealing with your job after a car accident can be challenging, especially if you’re injured or need time to recover. Here’s a guide on what steps to take:

Notify your employer about the accident as soon as possible, even if you’re not sure how it will affect your ability to work.
Get a detailed medical evaluation and request a doctor’s note outlining your injuries, treatment plan and any work restrictions or recommended time off.
Understand your rights and benefits, including sick leave, PTO, short-term disability and Family and Medical Leave Act.
Keep your employer updated on your recovery progress and any changes in your ability to work. Open communication helps them plan for your absence or modified duties.
Document all communications with your employer, medical records, doctor’s notes and any accommodations or work restrictions

Treatment

Do you handle all my treatments, or will you refer me to a specialist?

Our team of physicians and PAs can handle nearly every diagnostic procedure, and we will take care of as much of your treatment as you allow. In the event you require treatment that is not available at our facility, we will refer you to a specialist. We aim to provide as much care on-site for our patients as we possibly can.

Why is it important that I finish treatment with my provider?

Finishing treatment with your provider at Craft Accident Care Center Arizona matters for several key reasons:

Complete Recovery: Completing the full course of treatment ensures that you fully recover from any injuries sustained in the accident. Stopping treatment early could result in lingering or worsening symptoms.
Accurate Medical Records: Consistent treatment creates a thorough medical record, which is essential if you need to file an insurance claim or pursue legal action. Gaps in treatment can be used against you to argue that your injuries aren’t as serious as claimed.
Prevent Long-Term Issues: Some injuries, especially those related to the neck, back, or spine, can have long-term consequences if not fully treated. Finishing your treatment can help prevent chronic pain or other complications.
Insurance Compliance: Many insurance companies require that you complete your prescribed treatment before they’ll fully cover your medical expenses. Ending treatment prematurely could affect your claim and leave you responsible for unpaid bills.
Legal Protection: If your case goes to court, having completed your treatment demonstrates that you took your injuries seriously and followed medical advice, which strengthens your position.

Insurance & Payment

The information on this page is general and provided for educational purposes only. It is not legal advice and does not create an attorney-client relationship. Laws vary by state and circumstance. For advice about your specific situation, consult a licensed Arizona attorney.

Do I need insurance, and how do I pay?

We focus on injured victims of auto accidents, where the at-fault party’s auto insurance pays for treatment. Most accident victims do not need their own insurance to receive medical care and are not responsible for paying for treatment related to the accident — we handle payment collection directly through the third-party auto insurance.

Health insurance will not pay and is not accepted. There are occasions where the at-fault party’s auto insurance — or, in a single-car accident, the victim’s own auto insurance — includes coverage for medical treatment. Please call our office to discuss.

Who pays for my medical bills?

We focus on injured victims of auto accidents where the at fault party’s auto insurance pays for treatment. Most victims of auto accidents do not need insurance to receive medical treatment.

Health insurance will not pay and is not accepted. There are occasions where the at fault party’s or single car accident victim’s auto insurance includes coverage for medical treatment – please call our office to discuss.

What are some tactics insurance adjustors will use?

Insurance adjusters often use various tactics to minimize the amount they pay in settlements after a car accident. Being aware of these tactics can help you protect your rights and negotiate a fair settlement. Here are some common strategies:

Quick Settlement Offers
Adjusters may offer a quick, lowball settlement soon after the accident, hoping you’ll accept it before understanding the full extent of your injuries or damages. Avoid accepting any offers until you’ve fully assessed your injuries and the total cost of repairs. Consult with a legal professional if needed.
Downplaying Injuries
Adjusters might argue that your injuries are minor or pre-existing, suggesting that you don’t need as much compensation as you’re asking for. Provide thorough medical documentation and maintain consistent treatment to support your claim.
Requesting a Recorded Statement
Adjusters may ask you to give a recorded statement, hoping you’ll say something that can be used to reduce your claim. Politely decline to give a recorded statement without consulting an attorney, as anything you say could be used against you.
Delaying the Claim
Some adjusters may intentionally delay processing your claim, hoping you’ll become frustrated and accept a lower settlement. Stay patient, document all communication, and consider seeking legal advice if delays continue.
Blaming You for the Accident
The adjuster might suggest that you were partially or fully at fault for the accident to reduce the payout. Collect evidence like photos, police reports, and witness statements to support your version of events.
Misrepresenting Insurance Coverage
They may incorrectly state that certain damages or injuries aren’t covered under your policy to lower your expectations. Review your insurance policy thoroughly or consult with an attorney to understand your coverage.
Offering a Settlement Without Medical Evaluation
Adjusters may offer a settlement before you’ve had a full medical evaluation, hoping to settle before you realize the full extent of your injuries. Wait until you’ve completed all medical treatments and have a clear understanding of your condition before settling.
Pressuring You to Settle Quickly
They may use various tactics to pressure you into settling quickly, such as suggesting that the offer will be lower later or that they’re doing you a favor by offering a quick resolution. Take your time to evaluate the offer, and don’t let pressure tactics force you into an unfair settlement.
Disputing the Necessity of Medical Treatment
The adjuster might question the necessity or duration of your medical treatment, claiming it was excessive or unrelated to the accident. Ensure your treatment is well-documented by your healthcare provider, with clear connections to the accident injuries.
Undervaluing Vehicle Damage
Adjusters may undervalue the cost of repairing or replacing your vehicle. Obtain independent repair estimates and compare them with the adjuster’s offer to ensure it’s fair.

Understanding these tactics can help you navigate the settlement process more effectively, ensuring you receive the compensation you’re entitled to.

What information should I share with the insurance company following an auto accident?

When dealing with an insurance company after an auto accident, it’s important to be careful about what information you share. Here’s a guide to what you should and shouldn’t disclose:

INFORMATION TO SHARE

Basic Details About The Accident
- Date, time and location
- Weather and road conditions
- Involved vehicles
Contact Information
- Your name, address and phone number
- The names and contacts of other drivers involved
- Insurance information for all parties involved, including policy numbers
Police Report Details
- The police report number and the name of the officer who responded
- If possible, a copy of the official police report
Facts of the Accident
- A brief, factual description of what happened
- Injuries: Mention if anyone was injured, but avoid going into too much detail
Photos and Documentation
- Photos of vehicle damage, license plates and accident scene
- Repair estimates and medical bills as they become available

INFORMATION TO AVOID SHARING

Admitting fault
- Avoid statements like “it was my fault” or “I’m sorry.” Determining fault is a complex legal issue and should be left to the insurance companies and legal professionals.
Speculating or Giving Opinions
- Stick to the facts.
Details About Your Injuries
- While you should mention that you were injured, avoid going into detail about your injurues until you have been fully evaluated by a doctor. Some injuries take time to manifest, and premature statements can be used against you.
Recorded Satements
- Don’t agree to provide a recorded statement without first consulting an attorney. These can be used to dispute your claims later.
Settlement Talkes
- Avoid discussing settlement amounts or accepting any offers without first reviewing your options and consulting with a legal professional if necessary.

What is a physician's lien and why is it being filed?

A physician’s lien is a legal claim that a healthcare provider (such as a doctor or a medical facility) files in order to secure payment for medical services given to a patient who was injured in an accident. The lien is typically filed against any potential settlement or judgment that the patient may receive from a personal injury claim.