Workers’ compensation claims can be complicated, especially when there are pre-existing conditions.
Understanding how pre-existing conditions affect workers’ compensation can help injured workers navigate their claims more effectively.
Denied claims due to pre-existing conditions
One common issue is that insurance companies may deny workers’ compensation claims if the injury involves a pre-existing condition. Insurers often argue that the current injury is simply an aggravation of an old condition rather than a new work-related injury. This can make it harder for workers to get the benefits they deserve, even if the work incident clearly made the condition worse.
Proving work-related aggravation
To get compensation, injured workers must prove that their job made their pre-existing condition worse. This means showing medical evidence that the work injury aggravated or accelerated the condition.
Workers can still receive benefits if they can prove that their work activities contributed to making the condition worse. Medical records, doctor’s testimony, and detailed reports are often needed to make a strong case.
Challenges in getting full benefits
Another common issue is the challenge of getting full benefits for an injury involving a pre-existing condition. Insurance companies may try to reduce compensation by blaming most of the injury on the pre-existing issue.
Workers may need to fight for fair benefits by providing strong medical evidence that proves how much the work injury worsened the condition. This often requires the help of a legal professional to make sure the worker’s rights are protected.
Protecting your rights
Workers dealing with pre-existing conditions should be aware of the challenges they might face when filing a workers’ compensation claim. Understanding how to prove that work made the condition worse and preparing to fight for full benefits can help injured workers get the compensation they deserve.