Being involved in a car accident, especially due to a reckless driver, can be a traumatic experience. Suppose you had a pre-existing condition prior to an accident; any additional injuries you sustained during the collision could further deteriorate your health.
Unfortunately, a pre-existing condition can complicate any personal injury claim you may file in the wake of a crash. The existence of a pre-existing condition may make it more challenging to demonstrate that the car accident directly caused new symptoms and challenges. Understanding the potential hurdles you may encounter can help you manage your expectations during the accident claims process.
The ‘’eggshell plaintiff’’ doctrine
The eggshell plaintiff doctrine is a key principle that might help your case when pursuing a personal injury claim. According to this legal concept, the defendant has to take you, the plaintiff, as they find you. This means your pre-existing condition does not absolve the defendant of liability for your damages.
The law acknowledges that since you have a pre-existing condition, you’re more susceptible to injury. But you can breathe easy knowing that the defendant is still fully liable for the damages caused by their negligence.
That said, it’s important to remember that this legal concept does not automatically guarantee compensation for all injuries. For example, if you have a history of back problems and you get involved in a car accident, the at-fault would be responsible for any new injuries or aggravations of the pre-existing condition caused by the accident. However, proving that the car accident worsened the pre-existing condition rather than the natural progression of the condition itself can be challenging.
The role of medical evidence
In your predicament, medical evidence can be critical in distinguishing where your pre-existing condition ends and where the injuries from the accident begin. You will need clear and convincing medical records that detail the extent of your pre-existing condition before the accident and the extent of your injuries after the accident.
In your personal injury case, medical experts may be asked to testify to clarify how the accident contributed to the worsening of your pre-existing condition. Their testimony can help establish that the injuries sustained in the accident are distinct and significant enough to warrant compensation.
Although a pre-existing condition can complicate your personal injury case following a car accident, it won’t automatically prevent you from receiving compensation. The success of your case will depend on providing strong, clear medical evidence that differentiates the pre-existing condition at issue from the injuries sustained in the accident. Partnering with an appropriate legal team is important for effectively navigating the legal process and securing compensation necessary to cover medical expenses, lost wages and other damages.