Pre-Existing Conditions for Workers in Gainesville

As Seen On:
Access Wdun logo
CNN logo
11 Alive
Law.com
NBC News logo
WSB TV Atlanta logo
The Atlanta Journal Constitution logo

Every year, countless workers in the state file for workers’ compensation. Many of these individuals have prior health issues that may worsen after their workplace injury. These pre-existing conditions for workers in Gainesville can complicate their claims and are often the reason a claim is denied.

If you had a health issue prior to your work injury, do not assume that your workers’ compensation claim will automatically be denied. While these conditions are significant factors in your case, a committed workers’ compensation attorney could help you effectively navigate this challenge. Work with a hard-working lawyer at Smith Hulsey Law for assistance in obtaining compensation for your injuries.

How Local Law Addresses Pre-Existing Health Conditions

Local law permits compensation for aggravated pre-existing conditions under workers’ compensation programs if the aggravation results from a work-related injury and requires medical treatment or leads to disability. The program is designed to cover the aggravation caused by the injury, not the pre-existing condition itself. This coverage is available as long as the prior health issue remains a disability. However, once the aggravation subsides and the worker returns to their pre-injury state, compensation may be terminated.

Employers are generally liable for injuries or illnesses that exacerbate pre-existing conditions, provided the work-related injury contributes to the worker’s inability to perform their job duties. They may attempt to reduce or deny compensation by arguing that the worker’s condition is primarily due to the pre-existing condition rather than the work-related injury. In some cases, they may try to deny a claim or terminate someone’s benefits before they have had a chance to fully utilize them. Therefore, it is crucial for injured workers to consult a Gainesville lawyer for cases involving prior medical conditions.

Essential Factors in a Workers’ Compensation Case

Several different circumstances can lead an individual to apply for workers’ compensation, such as:

  • Workplace fires or explosions
  • Collisions involving moving equipment
  • Chemical burns from mislabeled substances
  • Injuries from machinery due to inadequate maintenance
  • Slip and fall accidents involving unmarked or unblocked hazards

Workers can sustain a variety of injuries, some of which could put them out of commission for extended periods or permanently.

Promptly reporting an injury or worsening condition is vital for a successful claim. The state requires employees to notify their employer within 30 days of the injury. Delayed reporting could undermine a person’s claim, especially if they had a pre-existing health issue.

Strong evidence can also affect someone’s outcome. If evidence shows that an unrelated event (like a sports injury) exacerbated the individual’s pre-existing condition, it may jeopardize their claim. For a person to determine if the circumstances surrounding their pre-existing medical issues could disqualify their workers’ compensation claim, they should contact a Gainesville attorney today to evaluate their eligibility.

Seek the Services of a Gainesville Attorney for Pre-Existing Health Issues for Workers Today

Having the help of a lawyer skilled in handling claims involving pre-existing conditions for workers in Gainesville is essential to effectively challenge a denial from your employer. The attorneys at Smith Hulsey Law strive to protect workers’ rights and are prepared to assist you. Give us a call today to schedule a consultation regarding your case.

Smith Hulsey Law

Smith Hulsey Law
N/a