Many people worry that a pre-existing condition will prevent them from receiving workers’ compensation. In Maryland, the law is more generous than many expect. If your job aggravated or worsened a pre-existing condition, you may still have a valid claim.
Maryland law does not require workers to be in perfect health before an injury. If your work duties made an old injury worse or caused a dormant condition to become painful again, workers’ comp benefits may still apply. The key is demonstrating that your job played a clear role in your current symptoms.
For example, someone with a history of back problems who lifts heavy boxes at work and experiences a new or worsened injury may be covered. The same goes for someone whose repetitive tasks cause an old shoulder issue to flare up.
Medical evidence is critical. Your doctor must explain how your condition was made worse by your job duties. That’s why being honest and specific about your symptoms and work activities is important during appointments.
Insurers often try to deny claims by blaming the injury on your prior health issues. They may argue that your pain was inevitable or that your work had nothing to do with it. A strong medical opinion can refute that. In some cases, hiring a medical expert to give a second opinion may help.
Even if your claim is approved, your prior condition could affect how much compensation you receive. Maryland uses a system that takes prior impairments into account when calculating permanent disability awards.
If you’re unsure how your health history affects your workers’ comp case, it’s wise to speak with a qualified attorney. They can help protect your rights and make sure your injury is evaluated fairly.
Pre-existing conditions don’t automatically disqualify you. If your job made things worse, you deserve support and treatment.
Why Seeking Immediate Medical Treatment Helps Your Personal Injury Case
If you’ve been injured in an accident, seeing a doctor right away is one of the most important things you can do for your health and for your legal case. Delays or gaps in medical treatment can seriously hurt your personal injury claim, especially in Maryland.
Insurance companies are always looking for reasons to deny or minimize claims. When there’s a significant delay between the accident and the first medical visit, they may argue that your injuries aren’t serious or weren’t caused by the accident. Gaps in care—such as missing appointments or stopping treatment without explanation—can also weaken your case.
These gaps create uncertainty. They give the insurance company room to say, “If you were really hurt, you would have gone to the doctor sooner.” Even if your injuries are legitimate, this line of reasoning can reduce the value of your claim.
To protect your case, seek medical attention as soon as possible after the accident. Many injuries—like soft tissue damage or concussions—don’t show symptoms right away. A doctor can identify these problems early and document them properly.
Once you begin treatment, follow through with all recommended care. That includes attending follow-up visits, physical therapy, and specialist referrals. If you miss appointments, be sure to explain why and keep a record. Sometimes life circumstances—like cost or family issues—get in the way. But documenting your reason helps preserve credibility.
If you did delay treatment for any reason, tell your attorney. They can help explain the circumstances and reduce the damage to your case.
Prompt and consistent medical care not only helps you heal, but it also strengthens your legal position. It shows that you’re taking your injuries seriously and that the accident caused real harm. Without this proof, even a valid claim can be denied or undervalued.
Don’t wait or try to tough it out. Getting the care you need is the best thing you can do for your health and your case.
