Can You Get Workers’ Compensation for Pre-Existing Conditions in Illinois?

Many workers assume that if they have a pre-existing condition, they are automatically disqualified from receiving workers’ compensation benefits. However, that’s not always the case. Illinois law allows workers to receive benefits if a job-related accident or work activities aggravate or worsen a pre-existing condition.

At Illinois Workers’ Comp Lawyers, we know that insurance companies often try to use pre-existing conditions as an excuse to deny claims. Understanding how the law applies to your situation can help you fight for the benefits you deserve.

Yes, Illinois workers’ compensation law provides benefits if your job makes a pre-existing condition worse. However, there are important factors to consider:

1. The Injury Must Be Work-Related: Your job duties must have aggravated or accelerated your condition in a way that caused increased pain, disability, or the need for additional medical treatment.
2. A New Injury Doesn’t Have to Be the Sole Cause: Even if your condition existed before, you can still receive benefits as long as your work contributed to its worsening.
3. Medical Evidence Is Crucial: Your medical records must show that your condition changed due to your work duties.

For example, if you had a previous back injury, but lifting heavy objects at work caused it to flare up to the point where you could no longer perform your job, you may still qualify for workers’ comp.

Many common conditions can be aggravated by work-related activities, making you eligible for benefits, including:

• Back and Neck Injuries: If a past herniated disc worsens due to heavy lifting or repetitive movements.
• Knee or Joint Problems: If an old sports injury is aggravated by prolonged standing, kneeling, or climbing stairs.
• Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: If repetitive hand movements from work increase pain and numbness.
• Arthritis: If job-related strain leads to increased inflammation and reduced mobility.
• Heart Conditions: If high-stress job duties contribute to worsening cardiovascular issues.

If your employer or their insurance company tries to claim that your condition is unrelated to work, having the right medical evidence and legal support can make a significant difference in your claim.

Insurance companies often challenge claims involving pre-existing conditions by arguing:

• The condition existed before you started the job.
• Work activities didn’t actually worsen the condition.
• You would have needed treatment regardless of your job duties.

Because of these challenges, it’s crucial to provide strong medical documentation and clear evidence showing how your work contributed to the worsening of your condition.

If your employer is disputing your claim, our experienced attorneys can help gather medical records, secure professional opinions, and build a strong case to prove your injury is work-related.

If you have a pre-existing condition and are filing a workers’ compensation claim, following these steps can improve your chances of approval:

1. Report the Injury Immediately: Notify your employer as soon as you experience worsening symptoms. Illinois law requires workers to report injuries within 45 days of the incident.
2. Seek Medical Treatment: Visit a doctor as soon as possible and explain how your work activities aggravated your condition.
3. Be Honest About Your Medical History: Trying to hide a pre-existing condition can backfire. Instead, focus on how your job worsened your condition.
4. Keep Detailed Records: Document your symptoms, work duties, medical treatments, and any challenges you face in performing your job.

If your claim is denied due to a pre-existing condition, you have the right to appeal the decision, and we can help ensure your case is presented with the strongest possible evidence.

A pre-existing condition does not automatically disqualify you from receiving workers’ compensation benefits in Illinois. If your job made your condition worse, you have the right to seek medical coverage, lost wages, and other benefits.

At Illinois Workers’ Comp Lawyers, we fight for injured workers, ensuring they aren’t unfairly denied the compensation they need. If your employer or insurance company is disputing your claim, contact us today for a consultation. We’ll help you navigate the process and work toward securing the benefits you deserve.