How Do Secondary Injuries Impact A Workers’ Compensation Claim?

If you suffered a work injury, it may take a long time to recover from your damages. Thankfully, your workers’ compensation benefits will help cover medical expenses and lost wages until you recover. But what if you suffer another injury connected to your original workplace accident? Learn more about secondary injuries and how they can affect your claim. 

What Is A Secondary Injury?

A secondary injury is an injury or health condition that directly results from the “primary” injury sustained at work. For instance, you hurt your back while operating heavy machinery at a construction site. A few weeks later, you fall and break an arm because your back injury made you lose your balance. In this case, the broken arm would be considered a secondary injury because of its connection with your back injury at work.

Does Workers’ Comp Cover Secondary Injuries in New York?

New York’s workers’ compensation benefits cover most secondary injuries if you can prove that it is a direct consequence of the primary injury. However, connecting the two can often be challenging. For this reason, it’s essential to consult with an experienced workers’ compensation lawyer before submitting your paperwork.

What Type Of Secondary Injuries Are Eligible?

There’s no rule about what types of secondary injuries are eligible for workers’ comp. However, some secondary injuries are more common than others, such as:

• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
• Chronic Pain
• Anxiety or depression
• Surgery-related injuries
• Becoming addicted to prescription medications
• Fractured limbs

How To Get Compensation For Secondary Injuries

Filing another claim for secondary injuries is relatively straightforward as long as you can prove the direct relationship between your current injuries and a previous one. Here are the steps you need to take to get your claim approved:

Gather Your Medical Evidence

Like your original claim, gathering all relevant medical evidence is essential. This documentation includes doctor’s notes, medical reports, or any other tests that can establish a link between your primary and secondary injuries. The more detailed you are, the stronger your case will be.

Have A Medical Expert Testify On Your Behalf

A medical expert who knows about your condition can help you establish the connection between your primary and secondary injuries. This witness could be your primary physician or another medical expert familiar with your case. Given their extensive knowledge and unbiased insight, their testimony can prove that your secondary injury directly resulted from your primary work injury.

Get The Workers’ Comp Benefits You Deserve

Filing a workers’ compensation claim for a secondary injury can be challenging, especially when navigating the process alone. But with substantial medical evidence and expert testimony, you can strengthen your claim and improve your chances of receiving the compensation you deserve. If you’ve suffered a secondary injury and are facing difficulties with your claim, our experienced New York workers’ compensation attorneys will help you get the benefits you’re entitled to. Please contact us online or call us at 855-622-7686 to schedule a free consultation today.