Do Pre-Existing Conditions affect Workers’ Comp?

Written by Bryn Swartz on .

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When you’ve suffered a work-related injury, you need Workers’ Comp benefits that cover all the costs of your injury. But that may not be a simple case. You may have a pre-existing condition that impacts your Workers’ Comp claim.

If you’re worried about the ways a previous injury can impact your claim, reach out to a Virginia Workers’ Comp lawyer to calculate your claim’s worth. We’re here to guide you to the max benefits you’re due for your injuries.

How a Pre-Existing Condition Can Impact Workers’ Comp

When you’re injured in a work accident, you’re due benefits that cover the costs of your recovery. But if you already had an injury or illness, that previous condition may make your new injuries worse. For example, if you had already suffered a concussion in the past, a second blow to the head may lead to more severe brain damage than you would have suffered if it was your first injury.

Because of this, your Workers’ Comp can be impacted if you have a pre-existing condition. This condition will be considered by your doctor, and your benefits may be reduced because of that injury. Your doctor may need to calculate how severe your injuries would be if you didn’t have the previous injury.

Calculating Your Claim’s Value

Because of this, calculating your Workers’ Comp claim’s value with a pre-existing condition can be tough. Determining how severe your suffering would be can be complex and may require plenty of medical exams. But what Workers’ Comp benefits can you expect?

You should first receive medical benefits, which cover the costs of care for your work injury. You shouldn’t have the threat of hospital liens over you while you’re recovering from your work injury.

You may also receive wage replacement benefits. These benefits cover a percentage of the wages you would have received while you’re unable to work at your usual capacity. If you’re unsure how to calculate these complex benefits, reach out to your lawyer for guidance.

What if I’m Denied Workers’ Comp?

Unfortunately, the Workers’ Comp insurance company may deny you if they believe your injuries weren’t work-related. Proving your injuries would still be severe because of your work accident can be tough. Luckily, you have a Workers’ Comp lawyer to represent you during these difficult times.

Your Workers’ Comp lawyer can help you seek out a hearing with the Virginia Workers’ Compensation Commission, who will hear out your appeal. Your lawyer can represent you, presenting evidence for your claim and seeking out the benefits you need to recover.

Talk to a Workers’ Comp Lawyer About Your Condition

If you were injured previously, your work accident claim may be a little more complex. Luckily, your lawyer is here to make things simple.

At Pathfinder Injury Law, we know pre-existing conditions can complicate matters, making it tough to recover from your injuries. If you’re struggling to get compensated fairly for a Workers’ Comp claim, reach out for assistance, starting with a free consultation. We’re here to help when you call 804-505-0633 or fill out the online contact form below.

Bryn Swartz

Written By Bryn Swartz

Bryn Swartz is passionate about helping others navigate work-related injuries. Read more from the founder of Pathfinder Injury Law in VA.

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