My Car Accident Aggravated an Old Injury. Can I Still Recover Compensation?
Driver experiencing shoulder pain after a car accident, illustrating how a collision can aggravate a pre-existing injury. Crowley Law PC helps injured drivers pursue compensation after motor vehicle accidents in Los Angeles, California.
Many people assume they can't file a personal injury claim if they've been injured before.
That's simply not true.
Maybe you had an old back injury from work. Perhaps you've dealt with neck pain for years or had knee surgery long before your accident.
If your recent car accident made that condition worse, you may still be entitled to compensation.
Here's what California law says.
An Old Injury Doesn't Prevent You From Filing a Claim
Insurance companies often argue that your pain isn't related to the accident because you were already injured.
But the law recognizes something important:
If another person's negligence aggravates a pre-existing condition, they may still be responsible for the additional harm they caused.
You don't have to be in perfect health to have a valid personal injury claim.
How Do You Prove the Accident Made It Worse?
Your medical records play an important role.
Your doctor may document that:
Your pain increased after the crash.
You now require additional treatment.
Your mobility has become more limited.
The accident accelerated your condition.
Medical experts can often explain the difference between an existing condition and a new aggravation caused by trauma.
Why Insurance Companies Use This Argument
Insurance adjusters frequently review years of medical history searching for previous injuries.
Their goal is often to argue:
Nothing changed after the accident.
You would have needed treatment anyway.
The crash wasn't responsible for your current symptoms.
Fortunately, prior medical history doesn't automatically eliminate your right to compensation.
What Compensation May Be Available?
If the accident made your condition worse, you may recover compensation for:
Additional medical treatment
Physical therapy
Lost wages
Future medical care
Pain and suffering
Every case is unique, and the amount depends on how the accident affected your condition.
Don't Assume You Don't Have a Case
One of the biggest mistakes people make is deciding not to call an attorney because they've been injured before.
At Crowley Law PC, we know that accidents can turn manageable conditions into life-changing injuries.
If you've been hurt in Los Angeles, Pasadena, Glendale, Burbank, or nearby communities, we'll evaluate your case and explain your options.
We’ll help you get the medical treatment you need and the compensation you deserve.
Here to make it right, when you've been wronged.
And Justice for All! ⚖️
Crowley Law PC
📞 (213) 325-5248
