Getting hurt at work is stressful enough, but it’s even more complicated when a work injury makes a preexisting condition worse. You might wonder whether Georgia workers’ compensation covers your situation. The good news is that in many cases, it does. Understanding your rights—and acting quickly—can make all the difference in getting the benefits you deserve.

Understanding Georgia Workers’ Compensation Law

Under Georgia workers’ compensation law, most employers with three or more employees must provide coverage for job-related injuries and illnesses. This includes situations where a work accident aggravates an existing medical condition.

If your job duties or an accident at work make your preexisting injury worse, you may still qualify for benefits. These benefits can include medical treatment, lost wages, and rehabilitation services. However, proving that your work caused the aggravation can be challenging—especially when insurance companies look for ways to deny claims.

How Preexisting Conditions Can Be Affected by Work Injuries

Many Georgia workers live with conditions such as arthritis, back injuries, or joint pain. A job injury can easily worsen these conditions. Common examples include:

• A warehouse worker with an old back injury who experiences new pain after lifting heavy boxes.
• An office employee whose carpal tunnel syndrome worsens from repetitive typing.
• A construction worker whose prior knee injury becomes aggravated after a fall.
• A nurse whose shoulder pain returns after lifting patients.

In each of these cases, the work injury exacerbated a preexisting condition. Georgia law recognizes these situations as potentially compensable—if you can show that the work incident made the condition worse.

Proving a Work-Related Aggravation

To receive workers’ compensation for a preexisting condition, you must show that your job duties or work accident aggravated the prior injury beyond its normal progression. This often requires medical documentation and expert testimony.

Insurance companies frequently argue that your symptoms are due to the old injury—not the job. That’s why it’s critical to seek legal help early. A skilled workers’ comp attorney can help gather evidence, obtain medical opinions, and prove the connection between your work and your worsened condition.

Why You Should Speak With a Lawyer Immediately

The workers’ compensation process in Georgia has strict timelines and complex rules. You typically must report your injury to your employer within 30 days and file your claim within one year. Missing a deadline can cost you your benefits.

At The Law Offices of T. Andrew Miller, we understand how to navigate these challenges. Our team knows the tactics insurance companies use to deny claims involving preexisting conditions. We take immediate action to protect your rights and fight for the full benefits you’re owed.

Why Injured Workers Trust The Law Offices of T. Andrew Miller

For years, T. Andrew Miller defended employers and insurance companies in workers’ compensation cases. Today, he uses that inside knowledge to fight for injured workers across Georgia. His experience gives clients an advantage when dealing with insurers who try to minimize or deny claims.

Our firm is trusted because we combine compassion with results. We offer:

• Free consultations
• No fees unless we win
• Clear communication
• Fast, focused representation for Georgia’s injured workers

Protect Your Rights After a Work Injury

If your work injury aggravated a preexisting condition, you still have rights under Georgia law. Don’t assume you’re not eligible for workers’ compensation. The insurance company is not on your side—but we are.

Contact The Law Offices of T. Andrew Miller today for a free consultation. We’ll review your case, explain your options, and fight to secure the compensation you deserve.