A car accident can change everything in an instant. For someone already carrying a pre-existing injury, a crash can make pain worse, disrupt daily life, and create new medical needs. When pain increases and old injuries return after a crash, the impact is real and serious.
At GLG Personal Injury Lawyers, we see this every day, and we know what it means for your health, your work, and your future. We are your car accident lawyer in Phoenix, and we are here to guide you through what happens next and how to protect your rights.
How A Crash Can Make A Pre-Existing Injury Worse
A pre-existing injury is something you had before a crash. It may have been stable. It may have hurt sometimes. But a crash can:
- Trigger pain that was under control
- Cause tissue, bone, or nerve damage to intensify
- Make mobility problems worse
- Increase the need for medical care
A crash adds new force and trauma to your body. Even if your old injury was stable, the collision can cause it to flare up or lead to a new injury on top of it. We call this an aggravated injury, and it is relevant to your legal case.
Why Aggravated Injuries Matter In Claims
Insurance companies often argue that a pre-existing injury is not their responsibility. They may say you were already hurt, so the crash did not change your condition. That is not how the law works in Arizona. You are entitled to compensation for all harm that the crash caused or made worse. This includes:
- Additional medical bills
- Lost wages from missed work
- Pain and suffering that is new or worsened
- Future care your doctor says you need
A Phoenix, AZ auto accident attorney can help make sure that insurance companies account for both new and worsened injuries in your claim.
Proving That Your Injury Was Made Worse
Medical records matter. So do experts. To prove that your pre-existing injury was aggravated:
- You must show your condition before the crash
- You must connect the accident to the increased pain or damage
- You must document what treatment you needed because of the crash
Your doctor can help with detailed notes and reports. Sometimes we work with medical experts who can explain how the crash changed your injury. This evidence is essential when you speak with insurers or a judge. A Phoenix, Arizona accident lawyer knows what documentation matters and how to build a strong case.
What You Should Do After A Crash
If you were involved in a car accident that made an old injury worse, your first priority should be your health. Then, take the right steps to protect your legal rights:
- Seek medical care right away
- Tell the doctor about all pain and symptoms
- Keep all medical records and bills
- Report the crash to police
- Do not give statements to insurers without advice
- Contact us early so we can start protecting your claim
Acting fast helps preserve evidence and strengthens your case. When you work with us, we handle insurer communication, evidence gathering, and legal strategy so you can focus on healing.
How Insurers Try To Minimize Aggravated Injury Claims
Insurance companies look for reasons to pay less. They may:
- Claim the injury was pre-existing and not worsened
- Offer a quick low settlement
- Argue that your pain is not related to the crash
- Delay in handling your claim
We push back against these tactics. Our team at GLG Personal Injury Lawyers knows how insurers operate. We gather the details, advocate for a fair valuation, and do not accept settlement offers that shortchange your needs. We protect your rights at every step.
The Role Of A Phoenix Car Accident Lawyer In Your Case
When your injury worsens after a collision, working with an experienced car accident lawyer in Phoenix is important because:
- We document aggravated injuries
- We value your claim accurately
- We handle negotiations with insurance companies
- We prepare for trial if needed
- We help you recover maximum compensation
We are not here to push you into a quick deal. We are here to make sure your current and future losses are accounted for. In Phoenix, many injury claims involve contested issues like pre-existing conditions. That is why a strong legal advocate matters from day one.
Common Questions We See
- Can You Still Get Compensation If You Had A Prior Injury?
Yes. Arizona law lets you recover for the worsening of pre-existing conditions. You are entitled to compensation for all harm the crash caused or added.
- Will Your Claim Be Worth Less Because Of Your Old Injury?
Not if you prove the crash made your condition worse. Your case value depends on your actual harm, not just what you had before.
- How Do Doctors Help Your Case?
Doctors link the worsened condition to the crash. Clear records make it hard for insurers to deny your claim.
- Do You Need A Lawyer If The Insurance Says They Will Pay?
Yes. Early settlement offers often leave out future losses and pain. A lawyer can evaluate whether an offer is fair before you sign anything.
What Our Team Does For You
When you work with us as your Phoenix, AZ auto accident attorney:
- We review your medical and accident records
- We consult experts if needed
- We calculate current and future losses
- We negotiate with insurers
- We prepare your case for trial if necessary
Our goal is to protect your future. We never collect a fee unless we win your case. You pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you.
Next Steps After An Aggravated Injury
If a car accident worsens an old injury, do not wait. Time matters. Arizona has deadlines on injury claims, and evidence can disappear quickly. We can help you:
- Preserve critical medical and accident evidence
- Explain your legal rights in clear language
- Build a strategy focused on your full recovery
You are not alone. Our team at GLG Personal Injury Lawyers stands with you and fights for your rights. Call today for a free consultation with a Phoenix car accident lawyer and get a clear plan for your case.
