That sharp pain shooting through your shoulder after a car crash isn't something you should ignore. While you might be tempted to wait it out, hoping the discomfort will fade on its own, untreated rotator cuff injuries can lead to chronic pain and limited mobility.
At Kode Law, Seattle personal injury lawyer Preet Kode understands how a rotator cuff tear can impact your ability to work, care for your family, and maintain your independence. Let's explore what you need to know about getting proper medical care and fair compensation for your injury.
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How Car Accidents Cause Rotator Cuff Injuries
The rotator cuff consists of four muscles and tendons that help stabilize your shoulder joint. During a car accident, the sudden force can cause these tissues to stretch or tear. This commonly happens when:
- Your hands are gripping the steering wheel during impact
- Your arm is thrown forward or backward by the force of the crash
- You brace yourself against the dashboard or door
- Your shoulder hits the door or window directly
The severity of a rotator cuff tear can range from a minor strain to a complete rupture requiring surgical repair. High-speed collisions often cause more severe damage, but even low-speed impacts can result in significant injury if your arm is positioned awkwardly at the moment of impact.
Side-impact collisions pose a particularly high risk for rotator cuff injuries since the shoulder may absorb much of the crash force. Rear-end accidents can also cause these injuries when the sudden forward motion jerks your arms while they're gripping the steering wheel.
Warning Signs That Indicate a Serious Shoulder Injury
Many car accident victims initially dismiss their shoulder pain as simple soreness. However, these symptoms suggest you may have suffered a rotator cuff tear:
- Difficulty raising your arm above shoulder height
- Sharp pain when reaching behind your back
- Weakness when lifting or rotating your arm
- A crackling sensation when moving your shoulder
- Pain that worsens at night or disrupts sleep
Getting prompt medical attention helps document the connection between the crash and your injury while improving your chances of a full recovery. Your doctor will likely order imaging tests such as an MRI to determine the extent of the damage and develop an appropriate treatment plan.
Delaying treatment can lead to complications like frozen shoulder syndrome or permanent weakness. You may also find that everyday activities become increasingly difficult as the injury worsens. Simple tasks like getting dressed, reaching for items on high shelves, or carrying groceries can become painful challenges.
Why Insurance Companies Often Dispute Rotator Cuff Claims
Insurance adjusters frequently try to minimize compensation for rotator cuff injuries by:
- Claiming the tear was pre-existing due to age-related degeneration
- Arguing the impact wasn't severe enough to cause the injury
- Suggesting you waited too long to seek treatment
- Disputing the necessity of surgery or physical therapy
- Downplaying how the injury affects your ability to work
This is why working with an experienced Seattle personal injury lawyer is crucial for protecting your right to fair compensation. Your attorney can gather medical evidence, expert testimony, and documentation of how the injury impacts your daily life to build a strong case for maximum compensation.
Insurance companies know that rotator cuff injuries often require extensive treatment and may result in permanent limitations. They may pressure you to accept a quick settlement before you understand the full extent of your injuries or future medical needs.
Getting Fair Compensation for Your Torn Rotator Cuff Injury
Even if you have excellent health insurance, recovering from a torn rotator cuff can be a financial burden without a fair car accident settlement. Your claim for a rotator cuff injury should include compensation for:
- Emergency room care and diagnostic imaging
- Orthopedic evaluation and treatment
- Physical therapy and rehabilitation
- Surgery if conservative treatment fails
- Pain management medications
- Lost wages during recovery
- Long-term impacts on your earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
Remember that Washington State's statute of limitations gives you three years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. However, it's best to start working with an attorney as soon as possible while the evidence is fresh and the witnesses' memories are clear.
