Missouri Workers Compensation for a Shoulder Injury

Shoulder injuries can vary greatly, but generally, they will be injuries to the tendons, ligaments, or muscles surrounding the shoulder, and not the bone itself.

It’s the first question on any Missouri worker’s mind when they file a workers’ compensation claim: how much is the case worth?

First, you need to understand what these benefits cover. Medical expenses for your shoulder injuries should be reimbursed by the insurance company, so you shouldn’t be expected to pay out of pocket for any treatment. If you also need to take time off, there are weekly benefits available as well, which is generally two-thirds of your average weekly wage at the time of injury. 

However, there’s also the worker’s comp settlement, which accounts for everything else. Now, here’s where it may get complicated.

The Most Important Question to Ask

Shoulder injuries can vary greatly, but generally, they will be injuries to the tendons, ligaments, or muscles surrounding the shoulder, and not the bone itself. Of course, some injuries can be more severe than that.

In any case, shoulder injuries can impair your arm mobility, which can put you out of commission for a while until your injury heals. In a worker’s compensation case, your final settlement depends on this essential question: how much has this injury affected your life?

So, in general, the worker’s comp settlement will consist of:

• Future medical expenses that may arise from your injuries, such as surgeries, or pain management medication

• Disability benefits, if the injury prevents you from returning to work or finding another source of income

This is in addition to the lost wages and medical expenses you receive throughout your workers’ compensation claim.

How Is It Calculated?

Here’s where it gets tricky. As you can see, some of the expenses caused by the shoulder injury don’t exist yet or are abstract expenses that don’t come with a clear price tag. As a result, these costs must be estimated by you, and then negotiated with the insurance company to be included in the final settlement.

This is why you will benefit greatly by discussing your case with an experienced workers’ compensation attorney. A lawyer can help you negotiate a fair settlement with your worker’s comp insurer so that all these invisible expenses are fully accounted for. The insurance company will likely offer a quick settlement they deem as generous, but you should not sign it until a lawyer checks the document to make sure you’re not getting cheated out of what’s rightfully yours.

Speak With an Experienced Missouri Workers Compensation Lawyer

How much your claim is worth depends on many different factors. Most often it’s dictated by the severity of your shoulder injuries, and how much your life has been (or will be) impacted by it. To avoid getting less than what you’re entitled to, it’s best to discuss your case with an experienced attorney who can negotiate a settlement with the insurance company on your behalf.