Car accidents can be devastating, and even if you do not suffer a debilitating injury from the accident itself, a major accident can often worsen an existing medical issue.
If you already have a medical problem and the accident makes it worse, what kind of damages can you get? Are you entitled to compensation.
You Can Generally Get Compensation for Pre-Existing Conditions Worsened by an Accident
Generally speaking, you cannot receive compensation for injuries or conditions that are not worsened by a car accident. In other words, only pre-existing conditions that were directly affected by the accident qualify for compensation.
For example, if you suffer from chronic back and neck pain and are involved in an accident that causes whiplash and damages your spine, you will be entitled to compensation for your injuries.
However, it’s important to note that you are only entitled to receive compensation to the degree that the accident made your pre-existing condition worse. This is also called the “exacerbation” or “aggravation” of an existing condition.
When recovering damages, you are typically able to receive compensation for your injuries and pain and suffering, as well as medical bills. You may also be entitled to compensation for mental health issues like depression and anxiety related to the accident.
Detailed Medical Records About Your Pre-Existing Condition Are Important
To obtain compensation for the aggravation of a pre-existing condition, it’s important to be able to establish your pre-existing condition, its severity, and how it affected your life before the accident.
Detailed medical records and other such information about your pre-existing medical conditions are essential for this. If you cannot prove your condition’s existence, this may limit your ability to recover damages.
In addition, if you lie or fail to disclose your pre-existing condition during proceedings, this could jeopardize your case and even expose you to legal penalties. It’s important to be open and honest about any medical conditions you suffered from before your accident.
Has Your Pre-Existing Condition Been Made Worse By a St. Louis Car Accident?
Unfortunately, insurance companies often do their best to deny claims and reduce compensation in situations where a pre-existing condition has been worsened by a car accident.
To ensure that you get the compensation you deserve, it’s important to work with an experienced St. Louis car accident lawyer. An experienced attorney can understand the details of your case, compile evidence proving your claim, and negotiate with insurers and other parties for the best possible outcome.
Don’t wait. Contact The Hoffmann Law Firm today. Our experienced auto injury lawyers in St. Louis can review your case and provide you with the professional representation you need to recover the compensation you are legally entitled to.
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