After a car accident, shoulder pain might seem like a minor issue at first, but it can quickly turn into something serious. Shoulder injuries often lead to long-term discomfort, limited mobility, or even surgery, leaving victims with growing medical bills and lost wages. Many people wonder how much their shoulder injury claim might be worth after a crash in South Carolina.
While there’s no fixed settlement amount, understanding the factors that affect compensation can help you know what to expect and how to protect your rights.
Common Types and Severity of Shoulder Injuries from Car Accidents
Shoulder injuries are among the most common car accident-related injuries because of the body’s natural reaction to brace for impact. The sudden force from a collision can cause stretching, tearing, or fractures in this delicate joint. Some of the most frequent injuries include:
- Rotator cuff tears: When the muscles and tendons supporting the shoulder joint are torn due to trauma.
- Dislocations: A high-impact crash can force the upper arm bone out of its socket, causing intense pain and swelling.
- Fractures and broken bones: The clavicle (collarbone) and humerus are particularly vulnerable in front-end or side collisions.
- Soft tissue injuries: Including sprains, strains, and deep bruising that can limit arm movement for weeks or months.
- Frozen shoulder (adhesive capsulitis): Limited range of motion that develops when shoulder movement is restricted during recovery.
Untreated rotator cuff injuries can lead to chronic pain and long-term loss of mobility.
Average Settlement Amounts and Factors That Influence Compensation
There’s no standard payout for shoulder injuries because every case is unique. Settlements in South Carolina can range from tens of thousands to several hundred thousand dollars, depending on key factors such as:
- Severity of the injury and required treatment: A mild strain may result in a smaller settlement, while a full rotator cuff tear requiring surgery can significantly increase compensation.
- Medical expenses and ongoing treatment: Costs for physical therapy, MRIs, prescription medication, and surgical procedures heavily influence settlement values.
- Lost income and reduced earning capacity: If your injury limits your ability to work, you may recover both current and future lost wages under South Carolina’s personal injury law.
- Pain and suffering: Long-term discomfort and lifestyle restrictions are considered when calculating non-economic damages.
- Liability and evidence: Strong medical records, witness statements, and proof of fault help maximize compensation.
Shoulder Injury Settlements: With and Without Surgery
Whether or not you require shoulder surgery is one of the biggest factors influencing settlement value.
- Without Surgery: Minor sprains, strains, or partial tears often settle between $15,000 and $50,000, depending on recovery time and medical costs.
- With Surgery: More serious injuries, such as full rotator cuff tears, fractures, or shoulder replacement surgeries, can yield settlements from $75,000 to $200,000 or more, especially when ongoing therapy or lost income is involved.
These figures reflect common settlement trends in South Carolina and similar jurisdictions. Actual outcomes vary based on the specific details of each claim.
Medical Documentation, Diagnosis, and Treatment Impact
Your medical documentation plays a crucial role in proving your claim. After an accident, you should always seek prompt medical attention, even if the pain feels mild. Early diagnosis helps establish a clear connection between the crash and your injury, something insurers closely evaluate.
Key evidence includes:
- Emergency room and hospital records.
- X-rays, MRIs, and orthopedic evaluations.
- Physical therapy and rehabilitation reports.
- Physician statements on recovery expectations or permanent impairment.
Insurance adjusters often look for gaps in treatment or inconsistent records to minimize payout offers. Consistent care and complete documentation make your claim stronger and harder to dispute.
Recovery, Rehabilitation, and Claim Duration
Recovery timelines for shoulder injuries vary widely. Mild strains may heal in a few weeks, while surgical recovery can take six months or longer. Physical therapy is typically required to regain full strength and mobility.
From a legal standpoint, most shoulder injury claims take several months to more than a year to resolve, depending on:
- Completion of medical treatment.
- The complexity of liability and negotiation issues.
- Whether litigation becomes necessary.
Your attorney may recommend waiting until you reach Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI) before accepting a settlement. This ensures your compensation covers all future costs and long-term needs.
Get Legal Help for Your Shoulder Injury Claim in South Carolina
Shoulder injuries from car accidents can have lasting consequences affecting your work, hobbies, and overall quality of life. You don’t have to face insurance companies alone.
At Stewart Law Offices, we help injured South Carolinians pursue fair settlements for shoulder injuries and other serious accident claims. Our auto accident attorneys are dedicated to securing the compensation you deserve so you can focus on healing. Call us today or contact us online for a free consultation.
