It is common for occupants of a vehicle that has been hit by a merging driver to suffer serious injuries. Merging accidents typically happen on busy highways when vehicles are traveling fast. Although there are many types of injuries that can occur, dislocated shoulders and other joints are some of the most common.
Anyone who suffers from a dislocated shoulder will probably have to stay at home while their shoulder injury heals. The total cost of such an injury could be significant and there is no reason why the accident victim should bear this cost by themselves. If proof of negligent driving on behalf of the merging driver can be obtained, then it is advisable to file a personal injury claim with the at-fault driver’s insurer. A personal injury lawyer can help provide advice and negotiate a fair settlement on your behalf.
Cost of a Dislocated Shoulder After a Merging Accident
A dislocated shoulder is not life threatening but it is important that it is dealt with professionally. There will be bills to pay for initial diagnosis, x-rays and other tests. The cost of treating the shoulder injury could be much higher if anesthesia is used, which may be needed if there is a lot of pain. The difference is substantial, with an average cost without anesthesia around $500, but with anesthesia around $6,000 to $8,000. The cost of initial doctor’s and specialist’s examinations and X-rays are on top of that.
Added to the cost of medical treatment will be the lost wages or other earnings because the injured person cannot work normally. A pain and suffering payment should be included as this will be considerable after such an accident.
Filing a Claim For a Dislocated Shoulder Injury After A Merging Accident
A personal injury claim can only be filed with the insurer of the driver involved in the crash if that person was to blame for the accident and by association your injury. The insurer will need to show evidence that supports the claim. This will typically include:
- proof that the other driver was at fault;
- invoices or bills for medical treatment;
- proof of loss of earnings;
- compensation for ‘pain and suffering’ often calculated as a multiple of the full cost of
- medical treatment.
Evidence that the merging driver was at fault is often the most difficult thing to obtain. You may be able to get eye witness contact details if the accident was observed by someone else. You will want that person to agree to state what they saw happen. Police officers who attended the crash scene should compile an accident report and this could include valuable evidence of who was at fault. If you are able to do so despite your injuries, photos taken at the crash scene can later prove to be useful evidence of who was at fault.
Why You Should Speak With a PI Lawyer
Treatment for a dislocated shoulder can become expensive and there is no reason why you should have to suffer financially if someone else’s poor driving decisions caused you so much suffering. You will find that you have a better chance of receiving the sort of compensation you expect if you enlist the support and help of an experienced personal injury lawyer.
