Even if two vehicles are traveling at slow speeds, a car accident can cause victims to suffer serious injuries. One common injury that people suffer in these wrecks is a shoulder injury from being forced against hard interior surfaces, being jerked around, or bracing for the impact. These injuries can require months of treatment and cause serious limitations in a victim’s ability to move an arm and handle daily activities.
Common Types of Shoulder Injuries Caused by Car Wrecks
The shoulder is a ball and socket made up of three main bones, ligaments, muscles, and tendons—all providing people with a wide range of movements. While some victims experience symptoms of a shoulder injury right after a car accident, others may not feel any discomfort for days or longer after the wreck. Shoulder pain, stiffness in the shoulder, and difficulty moving the arm are a few of the symptoms of a shoulder injury. After a car accident, here are some other common shoulder injuries:
Bone fracture.
If the force of impact is severe enough, a person could fracture the humerus, the shoulder blade, or the collar bone. These are the three major bones in the shoulder.
Deep tissue bruising.
Deep tissue bruising is much more serious than a simple bruise caused by bumping into an external object. It involves bruising of the muscles and connective tissues of the shoulder and can cause internal bleeding and significant pain.
Strains and sprains.
Being moved around in unnatural positions in a crash can cause the muscles and tendons surrounding the shoulder to be strained or sprained. Pain, swelling, and limitation of movement are some of the signs of this injury.
Rotator cuff tear.
This is one of the most common shoulder injuries caused in a car accident. The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons that keeps the upper arm bone in the shoulder socket. When any of these muscles and tendons are torn, a person can experience a dull ache, difficulty moving the arm, and weakness in the arm.
Don't Ignore Shoulder Pain After A Car Accident
If you suffered a shoulder injury in an auto crash, you could be off work for months or longer while you receive treatment for your injuries. You may be entitled to compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering from the negligent driver.
Have You Been Injured In A Car Accident?
If you've been hurt in a car accident you need to speak to an experienced car accident lawyer as soon as possible. Please contact us online or call our Warwick office directly at 401.946.3200 to schedule your free consultation. We help accident victims in Providence, Warwick and all areas of Rhode Island.
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