Workers’ compensation benefits are not limited to people in perfect health prior to an accident. Insurance companies will often WRONGLY deny benefits on the grounds of a pre-existing condition. The insurance company is trying to save money at your expense. Under long-standing Alabama law, “if the employee was able to perform his duties prior to the injury, no pre-existing condition is present” for workers’ compensation benefits. For benefits, you need to prove the accident worsened or aggravated the underlying condition. If you have been denied on the grounds of a pre-existing condition, you should seek skilled legal advice immediately.