If you’re dealing with a personal injury claim and you have a pre-existing condition, you’re probably wondering how it might affect the outcome. This blog is here to give you clarity.
We’ll explore how pre-existing conditions, including issues like a pre-existing neck injury settlement or a pre-existing back injury settlement, are handled in these cases. By the end, you’ll feel informed, prepared, and ready to take the next step.
Pre-Existing Conditions in Injury Cases
When it comes to pre-existing conditions, the law doesn’t penalize you for having them. However, insurance companies and lawyers will look closely at how those conditions have been affected, especially if you’re seeking an aggravation of a pre-existing condition settlement.
For example, if you had a chronic back injury that was consistent before your accident and it worsened significantly, this worsening becomes the focus. Courts and insurance companies will evaluate your medical history to see if your case qualifies for a pre-existing injury settlement.
Don’t worry—having pre-existing conditions is normal; it doesn’t mean your claim is invalid. The key is proving how the accident impacted your health.
Pre-Existing Conditions vs. New Injuries
Knowing what separates a pre-existing condition from a new injury is important. If you’ve been in an accident like a workplace accident claim or incidents such as accidents on a construction site, a new injury would be something caused entirely by accident.
A pre-existing condition, like an arthritis issue, is something you have dealt with before. When a pre-existing condition worsens because of the accident, it falls into an aggravated injury settlement category.
These cases rely heavily on documentation that shows how the condition changed. Being upfront about past injuries is a must for the process.
Strengthen Your Claim with Medical Records
Medical records are among the strongest tools when pursuing a pre-existing neck injury settlement or other claims involving prior injuries. Detailed records can demonstrate how your condition worsened after the accident.
They show a clear timeline of your health before and after, which makes it harder for an insurer to dispute your aggravation of a pre-existing condition settlement. If you’re seeking help with the worker’s compensation process or addressing injuries from a work-related accident, your medical documentation plays a central role.
How Insurers Handle Pre-Existing Conditions
Unfortunately, some insurance companies have tricks up their sleeve. They might try to minimize your claim by suggesting your injuries aren’t as bad as they seem or are only related to old issues. These insurance company tactics are common, but they shouldn’t discourage you.
For example, if you’re pursuing a pre-existing back injury settlement, the insurer might attempt to argue that your issues are solely due to an old injury. This is why having a strong case with documented evidence is vital.
Partnering with an experienced attorney, like a personal injury lawyer in Tulsa, OK, can help you counter these strategies and fight for what you deserve.
Move Toward a Stronger Case Today
Navigating the impact of a pre-existing condition on your personal injury claim takes both knowledge and preparation. Whether dealing with a pre-existing or an aggravated injury settlement, the right help makes all the difference.
Anderson & Associates are here to ensure your story is heard and your claim is handled with care. We understand the challenges and are ready to support you, so get in contact with our team today.
