If you suffer an injury that results in a long-term disability and you have purchased an LTD insurance plan, you may be eligible to file a long-term disability insurance claim to recover a portion of your lost wages. Unfortunately, individuals seeking long-term disability benefits can face challenges in getting the compensation they need, as insurance companies use various tactics to deny claims and withhold benefits.
When you work with an experienced long-term disability lawyer in Augusta, GA, you can take care of yourself while your lawyer handles the insurance company. Contact Ted A. Greve & Associates for a free consultation with one of our long-term disability attorneys and learn more about how our firm can help you.
Understanding Long-Term Disability in Augusta, GA
Long-term disability (LTD) benefits provide partial wage replacement if you suffer from a serious illness or injury that prevents you from working for an extended period. These benefits may come from an employer-sponsored insurance policy or an individual insurance policy. Other forms of disability benefits most people are familiar with are government programs like Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). Depending on where your long-term disability benefits come from, the exact method of seeking them may differ.
Anyone applying for LTD benefits in Augusta must meet strict medical documentation requirements and endure lengthy waiting periods. Any LTD claim has the potential to result in an insurance policy dispute. However, seasoned lawyers for long-term disability cases can tackle these challenges and can help you seek the compensation you deserve, regardless of the source of your benefits.
The Role of a Long-Term Disability Lawyer
Your long-term disability lawyer can handle every aspect of your claim for you. They can gather evidence of your medical condition and represent you in appeals if your claim is denied. The best way to maximize your chances of recovering compensation is by working with a knowledgeable lawyer.
How a Lawyer Can Help You Navigate the Claims Process
Before you can recover the long-term disability benefits you are entitled to, you must complete several crucial steps. A disability attorney can assist you through this process by:
- Acquiring and organizing your medical records and other evidence
- Filling out and submitting your claim forms correctly and within the deadlines
- Communicating with the insurance company on your behalf
- Making sure you comply with all eligibility requirements
- Representing you in appeals and hearings if the insurance company denies your claim
Dealing with an insurance claim on your own while you are receiving treatment for a severe injury or illness is challenging. Hiring an attorney lets you focus on your health while they handle your case.
Common Legal Challenges in Long-Term Disability Cases
Long-term disability cases frequently involve obstacles that can prevent you from receiving your benefits. Some of the most common obstacles include:
- Denied Claims: Insurance companies are in the business of maximizing profits by denying claims. Some of the reasons they may use to deny your claim are insufficient medical evidence, missed deadlines, and policy exclusions.
- Disability Status Disputes: Insurers may claim you are not disabled enough to qualify for benefits. If your policy is an “own occupation” policy, you must demonstrate that you are incapable of performing the tasks of your specific job to obtain benefits. If you have an “any occupation” policy, you must show that your disability prevents you from working in any capacity.
- Benefit Terminations: Even if your claim was initially approved, you may find that the insurance provider terminates your benefits without a valid reason later on.
An experienced disability lawyer understands the challenges you face and can help you fight back against these insurance company tactics.
Benefits of Hiring a Local Augusta Disability Attorney
Choosing a local attorney in Augusta, GA, provides unique advantages for your disability claim. For example, a local attorney will understand Georgia’s specific laws related to disability claims and know the local court system and administrative procedures if an appeal is necessary. They will also have experience dealing with local insurance providers and can meet with you in person.
By working with a local LTD attorney, you will receive tailored legal support from someone familiar with the specific challenges you face in Augusta.
The Process of Filing a Long-Term Disability Claim
Recovering benefits through a claim with your long-term disability insurance carrier requires completing the following steps:
- Reviewing Your Policy: It’s essential that you understand the terms and conditions of your LTD insurance policy. Your lawyer can explain the policy’s coverage, waiting periods, and other details.
- Gathering Medical Evidence: You need strong medical evidence to prove that your disability meets the requirements for your policy. This evidence may include doctor’s notes, diagnostic test results, treatment history, and expert opinions.
- Submitting Your Claim: You must submit your claim within the deadline required by your policy. These deadlines can be short, making it important to begin working with a lawyer as soon as possible.
- Communicating with Insurers: Your attorney can handle all communication with the insurance company. This will allow you to focus on your recovery and prevent the insurance company from taking advantage of you with bad-faith tactics.
- Handling Appeals: If the insurance company denies your claim, your lawyer can file an appeal and represent you in any related hearings or litigation.
Accessing More Resources and Support
When seeking long-term disability benefits, you may require additional resources to manage your condition. Our skilled disability lawyers can help connect you with support services local to the Augusta area, including:
- Medical professionals who specialize in your disability
- Vocational rehabilitation services
- Financial assistance programs like SSDI and SSI
- Support groups for individuals with disabilities similar to yours
These resources can provide vital assistance while you wait for your long-term disability benefits to be approved or while you prepare to return to the workforce.
Contact Ted A. Greve & Associates
If you suffer from a long-term disability, seeking the wage replacement benefits you paid for through long-term disability insurance can be challenging without the right legal support. At Ted A. Greve & Associates, our team is dedicated to helping individuals with disabilities seek the benefits to which they are entitled. Contact our law office today to speak with an experienced long-term disability benefits attorney in Augusta, Georgia, about your case and learn more about how we can help.
