Shoulder Pain After a Car Accident: Why You Shouldn’t Ignore It
Car accidents can leave behind more than just vehicle damage. For many victims, shoulder pain becomes one of the most common—and most overlooked—symptoms following a crash. Whether the collision is a minor fender bender or a severe impact, shoulder injuries can cause lasting pain, limited mobility, and even permanent damage if not treated properly.
Why Shoulder Pain After a Crash Is a Serious Concern
After an accident, most people focus on visible damage to their car or the immediate logistics of exchanging insurance information. But the injuries you can’t see right away—like shoulder pain—can be just as serious, if not more so.
Shoulder pain may show up immediately or days after the crash, and it often signals an underlying injury that requires medical attention. Because the shoulders play such a vital role in movement and everyday function, ignoring pain can lead to long-term or permanent damage.
Signs of a Shoulder Injury After a Car Accident
Every crash is different, but certain symptoms may indicate that your shoulder has been injured. Watch for:
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Stiffness and swelling
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Bruising or skin discoloration
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Limited range of motion
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Joint instability
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Muscle cramps or spasms
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Pain extending into the neck or upper back
If you notice any of these signs, see a doctor immediately. Quick treatment not only helps you recover physically but also creates documentation that supports your legal claim later.
Common Shoulder Injuries Caused by Car Accidents
Shoulder injuries can result from the force of impact or from bracing yourself during a crash. Even in lower-speed collisions, these injuries can be serious:
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Whiplash: Rapid movement of the head and neck can overstretch the tissues in the shoulder.
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Torn rotator cuff: High-impact crashes may tear the muscles that stabilize the shoulder joint.
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Dislocation: A violent hit against the dashboard, steering wheel, or door can force the shoulder out of place.
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Fractures: Collisions can cause partial or complete breaks in the bones around the shoulder.
Can You File a Claim for Shoulder Pain?
Yes. If your shoulder pain was caused by another driver’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation. A personal injury claim can help you recover damages for:
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Medical bills and ongoing treatment
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Prescription medications
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Lost wages from missed work
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Pain and suffering
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Property damage
The value of your claim depends on the severity of your injury. Shoulder injuries that require surgery, extensive rehabilitation, or months of recovery often result in higher settlements.
Filing a Claim for Shoulder Injuries
The first step in pursuing compensation is hiring an experienced car accident attorney. An attorney will:
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Review the details of your accident
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Collect medical records and evidence
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Calculate the full extent of your losses
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Handle negotiations with insurance companies
In many cases, insurance companies settle before a lawsuit is filed. However, if your injuries are severe or your expenses exceed certain thresholds, your case may proceed to court.
Get Help From a Car Accident Lawyer Today
If you’re suffering from shoulder pain after a car accident, don’t wait to get legal help. The attorneys at Applebaum Accident Group have the experience and resources to fight for the compensation you deserve.
Call us today (855-Call-Paul)for a consultation. Let our team handle the legal process so you can focus on healing.
