The Impact of Pre-Existing Conditions on Your Personal Injury Claim
If you have been injured in an accident and have pre-existing conditions, it can impact your personal injury claim. The insurance company may try to argue that your injuries were pre-existing or that your current condition is not related to the accident. In this blog post, we will discuss the impact of pre-existing conditions on your personal injury claim and what you can do to protect your rights.
What is a Pre-Existing Condition?
A pre-existing condition is a medical condition that existed before the accident. This can include injuries, illnesses, and medical conditions that were present prior to the accident. If you have a pre-existing condition and are injured in an accident, it can complicate your personal injury claim.
Impact on Your Personal Injury Claim
The insurance company may argue that your injuries were pre-existing and not related to the accident. They may also argue that your pre-existing condition was aggravated by the accident, but not caused by it. This can make it more difficult to prove the cause and extent of your injuries.
However, having a pre-existing condition does not necessarily prevent you from filing a personal injury claim. If the accident caused your condition to worsen or led to new injuries, you may still be entitled to compensation.
What You Can Do
To protect your rights and maximize your compensation, there are several things you can do:
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Be Honest About Your Pre-Existing Condition
It’s important to be honest about your pre-existing condition with your lawyer. Your lawyer can help you understand how your condition may impact your claim and how to proceed.
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Gather Medical Records
Gather your medical records and provide them to your lawyer. Your lawyer can use these records to demonstrate how the accident impacted your condition and caused new injuries.
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Get a Medical Evaluation
Get a medical evaluation from a doctor who specializes in your condition. This can help establish the cause and extent of your injuries and how the accident impacted your condition.
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Work with an Experienced Lawyer
Working with an experienced personal injury lawyer can help you navigate the complex issues surrounding pre-existing conditions and personal injury claims. Your lawyer can advise you on your rights and options, negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf, and represent you in court if necessary.
Having a pre-existing condition can impact your personal injury claim, but it does not necessarily prevent you from receiving compensation. Be honest about your condition, gather medical records, get a medical evaluation, and work with an experienced lawyer. By taking these steps, you can protect your rights and maximize your compensation.
A personal injury lawyer can help you understand your legal options and negotiate a fair settlement on your behalf. Click here to schedule a free consultation with one of our skilled California lawyers to learn more about your options. Or call our offices at 707 549 8166.