Vaccines are critical in our fight against many diseases. They are designed to protect public health, but when administered incorrectly, the same vaccines that do so much good in the world can cause serious and long-lasting shoulder injuries. Shoulder injuries related to vaccine administration (SIRVA) most often occur when a vaccine is injected too high or too deep into the shoulder. Administering vaccines improperly leads to chronic pain, reduced mobility, and even permanent damage to the arm and shoulder. If you have suffered a shoulder injury following a vaccination, you may be entitled to financial compensation through the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program (VICP), a special program to compensate victims of vaccine injuries.

The attorneys at Price Benowitz handle SIRVA lawsuits for clients across the nation who have experienced vaccine-related injuries. Our experienced legal professionals understand the complexities of vaccine injury claims and can help you secure the compensation you deserve.

Understanding SIRVA: Symptoms and Long-Term Effects

SIRVA is a medically-recognized vaccine injury that an improper injection technique, not the vaccine itself, causes. Improper placement of the needle may cause it to penetrate joint structures, ligaments, or nerves, often leading to inflammation, severe pain, and restricted movement.

Some of the more common symptoms of SIRVA include:

  • Persistent shoulder pain
  • Limited range of motion or difficulty lifting the arm
  • Inflammation and swelling
  • Weakness or numbness in the shoulder or arm
  • Frozen shoulder (referred to as adhesive capsulitis)
  • Rotator cuff injuries or tendonitis

These injuries significantly impact a person’s daily life, making it difficult to perform routine activities, work, or engage in recreational activities. SIRVA can also require extensive medical treatment, including physical therapy, corticosteroid injections, or even surgery, which a lawsuit could address.

How to File a SIRVA Claim Under the VICP

Unlike standard personal injury lawsuits that are filed in court, vaccine injury claims are filed through the VICP—a federal program established in 1986 to provide compensation to those harmed by vaccines. The U.S. Court of Federal Claims in Washington, D.C. handles all VICP cases. This federal program protects vaccine manufacturers from additional liability from individual lawsuits.

However, the process for filing a SIRVA claim may be complex, with strict deadlines and filing requirements. First, a claim requires the gathering of medical records to evaluate and confirm the link between the injury and the vaccine administration. Once the evidence has been gathered, it is time to file a petition with the U.S. Court of Federal Claims, after which government health officials will review the case and determine eligibility for compensation. Upon approval, the government may offer a financial settlement or the case may proceed to a hearing before a special master for further evidence or final determination.

The legal team at Price Benowitz will handle every aspect of the SIRVA claims process, ensuring that a person meets the necessary requirements and deadlines, and fighting to maximize their potential recovery.

Compensation Available for SIRVA Victims

Individuals who have suffered from SIRVA may be eligible to recover compensation for:

  • Medical expenses (past and future treatments, including therapy and surgery)
  • Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
  • Pain and suffering (limited to $250,000)
  • Rehabilitation and long-term care costs

Since the VICP covers attorney’s fees separately, the individual pays nothing upfront to pursue a claim.

Contact a Nationwide SIRVA Lawyer Today

Price Benowitz offers nationwide representation, experienced vaccine injury lawyers, no upfront legal fees, and comprehensive support.

If you feel that the administration of a vaccine has caused you to suffer shoulder pain or limited mobility, you may have a SIRVA claim. The VICP has strict deadlines, so do not wait to take legal action. Price Benowitz is here to help with SIRVA lawsuits.

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