Did a vehicle strike you as you were riding your bike? Did a car cut in front of you, causing you to swerve and wreck? Whether you wound up on the hood of the vehicle or on the ground, your body is vulnerable to serious injury. Even if you’re experiencing just minor shoulder pain, see a doctor for a full evaluation. The pain could be indicative of a more serious injury.
Some common shoulder injuries sustained by cyclists include the following.
- AC joint dislocation
- Shoulder dislocations
- Rotator cuff tears
- Scapular (shoulder blade) fractures
Diagnosing and Treating Shoulder Injuries
A doctor should use a physical exam and imaging technology, such as an x-ray, to diagnose a shoulder injury. Once a diagnosis has been made, the doctor will prescribe a treatment option. The type of treatment used varies depending upon the type of injury. Treatment may be as minimal as wearing a sling for a few weeks. Other times, treatment may require surgery and months of rehabilitative therapy.
Options for Recovering Compensation after a Bicycle Accident
Shoulder pain after a bike accident can be hard to live with, especially if the injury is severe enough to cause temporary or permanent disability. For cyclists whose injuries were caused by negligent drivers, there are options for recovery.
Washington State law, found in RCW 46.29.090, requires drivers to carry $25,000 in bodily injury liability per person, $50,000 in bodily injury liability per accident and $10,000 for property damage liability per accident. This insurance is meant to pay for damages the insurance holder causes. A cyclist who is hit by a motorist should be covered under the negligent motorist’s insurance policy. If unable to reach a settlement, the case may go to court.
Talk to your own auto insurer about whether your coverage covers you if you were on a bicycle. If you have personal injury protection (PIP), for example, it may cover your injury-related expenses regardless of fault, even if you were on a bicycle.
Max Meyers is Ready to Assist You after a Kirkland Wreck
Being hit by a car is scary. And if you’ve experienced shoulder pain that was the result of an injury caused by the accident, you have the right to recover compensation to pay for your injuries, property damage, and other losses. Max Meyers Law will help you understand all you need to know about your right to recover damages. If you’re ready to set up your free case consultation today, visit our contact page or call us now at 425-399-7000.