PK Simpson Blog4 min read

How Do Shoulder Injuries Rate in Workers’ Compensation Claims?

P

PK Simpson

PK Simpson

builder man in construction vest and safety helmet looking unwell touching his shoulder feeling pain standing over green background

Shoulder injuries are highly prevalent in workers compensation claims due to the joint’s complex structure and wide range of motion, making it susceptible to damage from acute trauma, repetitive stress, or overuse in many occupations. The rating of a shoulder injury in a workers compensation claim typically refers to the assessment of Whole Person Impairment (WPI).

This percentage, determined by accredited medical assessors using specific guidelines, quantifies the permanent functional loss resulting from the injury and is a key factor in determining eligibility for lump-sum compensation payments. At PK Simpson, our experience ensures your shoulder injury is appropriately assessed to secure the full compensation you are entitled to.

Common Shoulder Injuries in Workers Compensation Claims

  • Rotator cuff tear
  • Shoulder impingement syndrome
  • Shoulder dislocations
  • Frozen shoulder
  • Shoulder sprain and shoulder strain
  • Shoulder blade injuries
  • Shoulder fracture
  • Shoulder instability
  • Torn rotator cuff requiring surgery
  • Upper arm bone injuries
  • Injuries to the shoulder socket

If You Cannot Work Due to a Shoulder Injury

A workplace shoulder injury can severely affect your ability to perform your tasks and may be a reason to seek workers’ compensation. Shoulder injuries are rated highly by the NSW State Insurance Regulatory Authority (SIRA) since reduced shoulder movement often requires a permanent impairment assessment.

  • Medical expenses coverage
  • Lost wages compensation
  • Permanent impairment benefits
  • Shoulder injury compensation payouts
  • Lump sum payment for permanent disability
  • Total and Permanent Disability claims
  • Common law claims for serious injuries

The Road to Shoulder Injury Compensation

  1. Report the injury to your employer immediately
  2. Seek appropriate medical treatment
  3. Submit a Work Injury Claim Form to iCare
  4. Document how the injury occurred
  5. File a workers’ compensation claim
  6. Undergo medical assessments
  7. Seek legal advice from compensation lawyers

In NSW, a claim should generally be made within six months of the shoulder injury, although longer timeframes may apply in serious or complex cases.

Maximum Medical Improvement and Compensation Payouts

Before finalising payouts, your condition must have reached maximum medical improvement. Compensation is assessed based on the following factors:

  • Whole Person Impairment rating
  • Disability rating
  • Need for future medical treatment
  • Impact on work capacity
  • Treatment costs to date
  • Lost wages

Our legal team specialises in personal injury law and workers’ compensation claims and can assist you to:

  • Navigate the claims process
  • Pursue common law claims
  • File impairment benefit claims
  • Secure shoulder injury compensation payouts
  • Challenge insurer decisions
  • Access appropriate medical treatment
  • Overturn s78 decline notices

SIRA Rating of Shoulder Pain

Under SIRA guidelines, shoulder replacements attract high impairment assessments. Other shoulder surgeries are assessed based on range of motion, pain levels, and impact on daily activities.

Chronic pain is assessed according to the underlying diagnosed condition rather than as a standalone impairment. It is important to inform your GP of ongoing pain so it is documented in your medical records.

The Usual Compensation for Shoulder Injuries

  • Medical and treatment costs
  • Rehabilitation expenses
  • Lost wages reimbursement
  • Permanent impairment benefits
  • Lump sum compensation where applicable
  • Future treatment coverage

Workers Who Can Claim Shoulder Injury Compensation

  • Permanent employees
  • Full-time employees
  • Part-time employees
  • Casual employees
  • Subcontractors (in most cases)

Time Frames for Shoulder Injury Claims

  • Severity of the injury
  • Recovery time required
  • Date maximum medical improvement is reached
  • Complexity of the claim
  • Whether common law claims are pursued

Gathering Information and Evidence

Your PK Simpson lawyer may gather medical evidence from treating doctors, statements from co-workers or witnesses, and supporting information from family members to demonstrate how the injury impacts your daily life.

Why You Should Call PK Simpson Lawyers Today

Contact PK Simpson for expert guidance on your shoulder injury compensation claim. Our experienced lawyers work to maximise your entitlements and resolve claims efficiently.

Contact PK Simpson here or call 1300 757 467 to start your shoulder injury compensation claim today.

Learn More About Our Compensation Lawyer

General Compensation Information

Finding the Right Lawyer

Types of Compensation Claims

Legal Information

Multilingual Compensation Lawyer Services

For expert legal advice on compensation claims, contact PK Simpson today to discuss your potential case.

How Do Shoulder Injuries Rate in Workers’ Compensation Claims? | PK Simpson