Many people mistakenly conclude that because they had prior conditions, injuries, or treatment, they do not have the right to medical care or benefits if they’ve been reinjured. Fortunately, that is simply not the case. Our Minneapolis work injury attorneys have outlined what you should know about pre-existing conditions and prior injuries if you are bringing a work comp claim in Minnesota.
Minnesota Workers’ Compensation Law is in Your Favor
Work comp law in Minnesota recognizes that there can be many factors contributing to an injury or need for care. Workers’ compensation does not require that your work accident be the exclusive cause of your injury or need for restrictions – as long as your work injury is a substantial contributing factor, then the claim is compensable. Remember – you have rights under Minnesota work comp law.
Steps to Take if You’ve Had a Previous Injury
It’s important that you honestly and fully disclose your relevant medical history so your doctors can properly diagnose and treat you. However, it’s equally important that you clearly disclose the manner in which your condition was exacerbated or changed. If you’re having new, more intense, or changed symptoms, it is important that you disclose Your doctors need to understand how the work injury contributed to your current condition.
What if the Insurance Company Denies my Claim?
The work comp insurer cannot deny your claim based solely on your pre-existing condition. That said, failure to fully disclose all of your prior injuries or conditions may result in a denial of your work comp claim, so be sure to be transparent and honest at all times. If you find that your insurance adjustor is unfairly evaluating your claim because of a pre-existing condition(s), consider hiring an attorney.
Minneapolis Work Injury Lawyers
At Teplinsky Law Group, we have represented many people who have come to us with work injuries, even though they may have had a prior injury or condition to that same body part. It’s important that injured workers become informed and protected, and we’ll work with you and your physicians to help them understand what a compensable work injury is and how to help protect yourself. If you’re interested in speaking with one of our Twin Cities work comp attorneys, call us at 612-465-0320 to schedule a free consultation.
