How Pre-Existing Conditions Impact Workers' Compensation Claims in Alabama

In Alabama, pre-existing medical conditions can significantly impact workers' compensation claims. A pre-existing condition is an injury or illness you had previously been diagnosed with before your current work injury or illness. Some examples include prior back injuries, herniated discs, arthritis, asthma, and soft tissue injuries. 

If you have a pre-existing condition and have yet to pursue a new workers’ compensation claim, an Alabama workers’ compensation attorney can help to gather evidence to support your initial claim. If you have already filed a workers’ comp claim and received a denial or inadequate benefits due to pre-existing conditions, you should immediately seek assistance from trusted attorney Matt Matthews. 

Insurance Companies Can Deny Workers' Comp Claims Due to Pre-existing Conditions

Workers’ compensation benefits in Alabama come from your employer’s insurance provider, and the insurer must approve your claim for benefits before you receive funds. Unfortunately for injured workers, many insurance companies deny or limit benefits whenever possible. 

Insurance companies often deny workers' compensation claims if a pre-existing condition is deemed a significant contributing factor to your current injury. This is a complex and contentious issue in workers' compensation cases. The insurance company may argue that your pre-existing condition, rather than the workplace incident, is primarily responsible for your disability, need for treatment, and inability to work.

To contest such denials, it's crucial to seek legal representation. A skilled workers' compensation attorney can build a compelling case, gather evidence, and challenge the insurance company's assessment. Your lawyer may use medical records, expert opinions, and other documentation to demonstrate that the workplace injury aggravated or worsened the pre-existing condition, making it a compensable claim.

Even if a pre-existing condition is a factor, it doesn't necessarily mean the claim will be denied. Alabama law acknowledges that aggravation of a pre-existing condition by a workplace injury can still warrant workers' compensation benefits. The key is establishing a clear and direct link between the work-related incident and the exacerbation of the pre-existing condition.

Aggravation of Pre-Existing Conditions

If a work-related injury exacerbates a pre-existing condition, your attorney can fight for workers' compensation benefits to cover the exacerbated part of your condition. For example, if an employee with a prior back injury experiences a worsened condition due to a workplace incident, they may be eligible for compensation. 

If you need additional medical treatment or time off work you otherwise would not have needed, you should receive benefits. However, you must prove that the aggravation stemmed from your work activities; the mere fact that your condition was aggravated at work is not enough on its own. 

An Alabama Workers’ Compensation Attorney Can Help With Your Claim

Navigating the legal complexities of workers' compensation claims involving pre-existing conditions requires a thorough understanding of Alabama's specific laws, regulations, and insurance processes. By consulting with our experienced workers' compensation attorney from the Law Office of Richard F. Matthews, Jr., you can ensure your rights to proper benefits are protected. Contact us today to discuss your situation and options for free.