Most employers in Florida have to carry workers’ compensation coverage. If workers get hurt while on the job, they can notify their employers of their injuries. They can then request medical benefits to pay for their treatment. If they cannot work due to their injuries, they may also be able to request disability benefits.
Many workers’ compensation claims begin with new, unexpected injuries. However, employment can also impact pre-existing injuries. Workers may notice a sudden increase in symptoms or a resurgence of symptoms related to a condition that they had previously addressed.
Can workers’ compensation help those with pre-existing medical challenges?
Pre-existing conditions can complicate claims
When there is clear documentation affirming that a medical condition began on the job, workers have a straightforward process to follow when seeking benefits. The matter becomes somewhat more complex in cases where job responsibilities aggravate a pre-existing condition.
Employees seeking benefits may need to gather documentation affirming that they had the condition well-managed prior to accepting a new job or changing job functions. If medical and employment records support their claims that job tasks directly worsened their symptoms, then they may be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits.
A grocery employee with a prior back injury may experience a sudden flare-up of symptoms after lifting a case of canned tomatoes. While they may have hurt their back previously, the lifting required by their current job is what caused the recurrence of their symptoms. That, in turn, means they may be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits.
Although the claims process can be challenging when there are complicating factors, employees still have legal rights. Consulting with an attorney can be beneficial for those worried about their eligibility for workers’ compensation or anticipating a contentious process as they seek benefits.