Car accident injuries
Shoulder Injury Claims After a Car Accident
Shoulder injuries are common in a car accident, often from the seatbelt restraining you in a collision. If another driver was at fault, you could claim compensation for the injury and your losses.
Last reviewed: Reviewed by the Auto Crash Claims editorial team
How it happens in a car accident
In a car accident your shoulder is often injured by the seatbelt snapping tight across it, or by bracing against the wheel or dashboard. This can strain or tear the muscles and tendons, or damage the joint itself.
What a claim could be worth
Based on the Judicial College Guidelines, shoulder injury claims typically range from a few thousand pounds for a soft-tissue injury that recovers, up to around £50,000 for a serious shoulder injury with lasting restriction.
These are indicative ranges only, not a promise. The real figure depends on a medical assessment and your financial losses. Get an instant estimate with our compensation calculator, or start your free claim check below.
Common symptoms
- Pain and restricted movement in the shoulder or arm
- Weakness when lifting or reaching
- A seatbelt bruise across the chest and shoulder
A shoulder injury can make everyday tasks, driving, dressing, working, surprisingly difficult, and it can take months of physiotherapy to get movement back. If the crash wasn’t your fault, you shouldn’t be out of pocket for treatment or lost earnings.
A shoulder injury claim can cover the injury and the costs it’s left you with. Checking is free and there’s no obligation, and the specialists we work with can quickly tell you where you stand.
Evidence that helps your claim
- A medical assessment of your shoulder injury
- Details of the accident and the at-fault driver
- A note of treatment such as physiotherapy and any time off work
Frequently asked questions
How much is a shoulder injury claim worth?
It depends on how badly the shoulder is injured and whether it fully recovers. A soft-tissue shoulder injury is usually worth a few thousand pounds, while a serious injury with lasting restriction can be worth considerably more, with your financial losses added on top.
Can I claim if the seatbelt caused my shoulder injury?
Yes. A seatbelt doing its job can still leave you with a genuine shoulder injury, and if another driver caused the accident you can still claim for it.
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