Once someone is in an accident, it’s important they’re honest with their injury attorney about the conditions they had at the time of the event. Failure to adequately disclose these conditions can diminish the victim’s chances of a favorable and fair settlement.
Disclosure is essential, particularly when a new injury affects the same areas as an old injury, and an entire claim can be jeopardized by a victim’s non-disclosure. It is best for clients to disclose all pre-existing injuries and work with doctors to prove how the accident has aggravated these conditions.
When an insurance adjuster or opposing attorney encounters a claimant with no prior complaints or injuries, especially if the person is over age 30, that person’s past may come under scrutiny. An insurer may use a person’s pre-existing injuries and claims history to discredit the claims made after a subsequent accident.