A car accident is a life-altering event. Worse, an accident can aggravate pre-existing injuries, mainly back injuries. Fortunately, following an injury, you do not have to cope with the aftermath alone.
There are various avenues for you to take, including seeking compensation.
Pre-existing injuries and their role
Before the accident, you may have a pre-existing back injury that causes you minor discomfort. However, during the accident, the force of the collision can intensify back pain. If you already suffer from back pain or pre-existing injuries, you are more vulnerable to developing worse trauma during a car accident. The impact places stress on your weakened body.
Compensation and pre-existing conditions
Aggravated injuries can still result in medical bills, lost income and rehabilitation costs. Medical records are the most important of all your documents to prove your case. These documents are the direct connection between your injuries and the accident.
If you can prove that you would not have suffered the same losses or difficulties if the accident did not happen, you may have a chance at earning compensation for your accident. For example, if you could work carrying heavy objects but experienced mild back pain and now can no longer lift objects for work, you have a right to demand compensation.
In the U.S., about 63% of all patients with lower back pain have chronic pain due to a motor vehicle accident. Pre-existing injuries do not disqualify you from receiving compensation for your pain. To seek compensation, bring your medical records and meet with an experienced PI attorney.