Shouldering the Costs: What’s the Average Settlement for Shoulder Surgery Claims?

If you’ve been in an accident and injured your shoulder, you may be facing surgery and all the costs that come with it.

Shoulder surgery and recovery can get expensive fast between the procedure itself, hospital fees, physical therapy, and time off work. And if someone else is at fault for your injury, those costs shouldn’t come out of your pocket.

So, what can you expect to receive in a settlement if you need shoulder surgery due to another’s negligence?

While every shoulder injury case has unique aspects, some key factors shape the potential value of a settlement. The type and severity of your shoulder damage, the need for arthroscopic versus open surgery, the likelihood of a full recovery, and the impact on your quality of life and work capacity all affect your case. With an experienced personal injury attorney assisting you, a fairer assessment and maximum settlement can be obtained.

Common Shoulder Injuries & Settlement Amounts Following an Accident

While every shoulder injury case presents unique circumstances, looking at typical settlements for common post-accident shoulder traumas provides a general sense of potential claim values. Settlement amounts vary based on injury severity, surgery needed, and projected recovery time.

Shoulder Dislocation

A shoulder dislocation means the upper arm bone fully slipped out of the shoulder socket. Ligaments and muscles holding the joint in place were stretched or torn. Surgery can repair these stabilizing structures and prevent repeat dislocations.

Average settlements for shoulder stabilization procedures range from $30,000 to $100,000. Factors like the number of dislocations, the need for immobilization, and the degree of permanent weakness influence settlement amounts.

Rotator Cuff Repairs

The rotator cuff is made up of four tendons enclosing the shoulder joint. When these tendons become partially or fully torn, it leads to pain, weakness, and restricted mobility. Rotator cuff repairs aim to suture the damaged tendon back into place so it can heal properly.

For rotator cuff surgery, potential settlements may range from $50,000 for partial tears to over $150,000 for complete tears requiring open shoulder surgery, according to verdicts and studies. The more invasive the procedure and more extensive the damage, the higher the settlement value.

Labrum Tears

The labrum is a dense, rubbery cartilage that lines the shoulder socket, acting as a cushion and enhancing stability. Trauma from a car accident can tear this fragile rim guard, allowing the arm bone to rub against the socket bone. Arthroscopic surgery trims frayed areas and stitches any larger tears.

For labrum repair surgery, possible settlements typically fall between $75,000 to $100,000 based on the severity and permanence of the tear. More extensive repairs via open surgery increase potential values. Ongoing shoulder instability or arthritis risks also support larger settlements.

Shoulder Replacement

If the shoulder joint suffers irreparable damage, total shoulder replacement may be the only option. Settlements for shoulder replacement surgery typically fall between $100,000 to over $300,000. Permanent impairment ratings are very high, given the reduced motion, strength, and function compared to a normal biological shoulder joint.

Determining Fair Compensation for Your Shoulder Injury

While, on average, a shoulder surgery pays out for roughly $175,000 to $225,000, your specific settlement amount will depend on many factors.

An experienced injury lawyer will analyze the unique circumstances of your accident and shoulder trauma when assessing the value of your claim.

Key factors include:

• Type and severity of shoulder injury – The specific shoulder damage and required repairs impact settlement potential. More invasive surgeries typically warrant higher settlements.
• Duration and nature of treatment – Extensive medical care, multiple procedures, and longer recovery periods usually mean larger settlements.
• Long-term prognosis – Permanent impairments, including reduced mobility, strength, or range of motion boost case value.
• Impact on work – Time missed from a job due to shoulder surgery and rehab is considered in seeking compensation for lost wages.
• Loss of quality of life – Limitations to leisure activities you enjoyed before the accident help convey the non-economic impacts. These merit additional compensation.
• Insurance coverage – Settlements are often limited by the at-fault driver’s policy maximums, so seeking additional coverage sources may be needed.
• Liability apportionment – Contributing factors like weather or pre-existing injuries may reduce the liable party’s share of responsibility and lower settlements.

The ultimate goal is to seek fair and full compensation aligned with the short and long-term effects of your shoulder injury. An attorney experienced in Rhode Island’s injury laws can help you understand and document these factors to build the strongest case for maximum compensation through settlement negotiations or trial.

Maximizing Your Shoulder Injury Settlement With Louis W. Grande

While surgical costs, recovery timeframes, and potential settlements for common shoulder operations provide general guidance, every shoulder injury case has unique aspects. Partnering with Louis W. Grande – Personal Injury Lawyer optimizes your chances of receiving fair compensation aligned with the long-term impacts of your shoulder trauma.

Thorough documentation, multiple supportive medical opinions, evidence of quality of life impairments, and skillful negotiation can help obtain an appropriate settlement. Don’t endure the costs and burdens of shoulder trauma alone. An attorney well-versed in Rhode Island injury law can help determine liability and seek the maximum recovery you deserve.

If you or a loved one suffered a serious shoulder injury in an auto accident that wasn’t your fault, contact our car accident lawyers today to discuss your potential injury claim and make sure your rights are protected. Call now for your free consultation.