Pre-Existing Conditions Count As Iowa Workers’ Compensation Claims
Let’s say that you have a pre-existing condition due to your job. You received treatment, therapy or surgery for it, but it keeps getting worse. You are not sure what to do – the pre-existing condition keeps getting worse, and you fear that it could put your job at risk.
We understand how frightening it can be when your career and income are at risk due to a pre-existing condition. At Wertz Law Firm, P.C., our workers’ compensation attorneys have extensive experience helping injured workers with their claims. They have a long and proven track record of success in getting compensation for our clients’ pre-existing conditions. Please call us at 319-774-2687 or send us an email to learn more.
What To Know About Pre-Existing Conditions And Workers’ Comp
Many people who have never interacted with the Iowa workers’ compensation system are surprised to learn that an injury doesn’t necessarily need to be new to be compensable. If you have a pre-existing condition due to a prior workplace injury, you may still be entitled to workers’ compensation if your job worsens the injury. For example, if you injured your back two years ago, had surgery, returned to work, and then re-injured the same part of your back while at work, you are entitled to compensation. Similarly, if you developed arthritis in your knees over time, you are still entitled to compensation if you have a new injury or worsen your existing problem due to your work. Other examples of pre-existing conditions that may qualify for workers’ compensation include:
- Herniated discs
- Other back injuries
- Arm and leg injuries
- Carpal tunnel
- Neck injuries
- Knee injuries
- Torn ligaments
- Arthritis
- Sprains and strains
- Mental illness
Sometimes, a pre-existing condition that is not entirely work-related may also qualify for workers’ comp benefits. For instance, repetitive bending, twisting and lifting on the job will make a bad back more painful. If this is true for you, you may be entitled to workers’ compensation, no matter what your employer or their insurance company may tell you. Insurance companies often argue your activities outside of work also contribute to your injury. However, under Iowa law, your work needn’t be the major factor leading to your injury, just as long as it is a substantial factor. If you’ve had a claim denied due to a preexisting condition, contact our attorneys. We’ll help you fight for the compensation you are legally owed.
How Can Workers’ Comp Benefits Help My Pre-Existing Condition?
Workers’ compensation benefits can be a crucial support system if a workplace injury aggravates your pre-existing condition. The compensation available typically includes medical benefits, wage replacement, and rehabilitation services. Medical benefits cover the cost of necessary treatments, medications, and therapies directly related to workplace injury, potentially easing the financial burden of managing a pre-existing condition.
Wage replacement benefits generally provide a portion of your lost earnings, but they may not fully replace your wages. Typically, these benefits cover about two-thirds of your average weekly wage, up to a specified maximum amount. The duration of these benefits varies by jurisdiction and the severity of your condition, but they usually continue until you can return to work or you reach maximum medical improvement.
Schedule Your Free Consultation With A Workers’ Comp Attorney
At Wertz Law Firm, P.C., we make it easy to afford representation from a workers’ compensation lawyer. We offer free initial consultations and take all cases on contingency. That means we don’t charge any legal fees until and unless we help you obtain compensation. To discuss your case and learn how we can help, call our office in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, at 319-774-2687. You can also submit an online contact form.