Filing a long-term disability claim can be an extremely frustrating and time-consuming process. Between the endless paperwork, legal jargon and strict deadlines, it’s no wonder so many people end up facing a denied claim or simply give up altogether.
The thought of having to fight an insurance company is intimidating, especially when you’re struggling with a disability, injury or mental illness. The good news? You don’t have to go through this process alone.
Hiring a long-term disability attorney can dramatically increase your chances of success, reduce your stress and help resolve your claim as quickly as possible.
Whether you’re in the process of filing a claim, or if your claim has been denied, read on to learn how an LTD lawyer can help you get the full benefits you’re entitled to.
Do I need a lawyer to handle my LTD claim?
Deciding whether or not to hire an attorney to handle your LTD case is a personal choice. With adequate preparation and information, you can effectively file your own long-term disability claim. But if you choose to do it yourself, you need to be aware of the potential risks involved. Missing a deadline, providing improper medical reports or submitting an incomplete application are a few common mistakes that can jeopardize your claim.
When you negotiate directly with an insurance company, it’s also important to realize these companies do not have your best interests in mind.
The people who review disability claims are often hired by the insurance company, and they’re always working for the benefit of their shareholders. The more disability claims they approve, the less profit for their bottom line – which is their primary concern.
Unfortunately, having a legitimate disability doesn’t guarantee an approval. The outcome of your case is largely dependent on how well your application is put together.
If you want to maximize the chances of successfully resolving your claim, an experienced long-term disability lawyer can provide a wealth of expert knowledge and advice to help you achieve a favourable outcome.
The Benefits of Hiring a Long-Term Disability Lawyer
Having a personal injury law firm on your side can mean the difference between winning and losing your case. An attorney can add significant value to your claim, and provide you with several benefits.
If you’re considering hiring an LTD lawyer, here’s what you need to know:
Hiring an LTD Attorney Will Reduce Your Stress Levels
You already have enough to worry about with your health, finances and medical treatment. When you’re dealing with injury or disability, the last thing you need is additional stress from fighting an insurance company.
Sadly, insurers often use a number of deceitful tactics to delay or deny legitimate claims. A few examples of unfair practices include:
- Unreasonable wait times
- Having to provide unnecessary or excessive information
- Changes in disability requirements
- Failure to disclose policy terms
- Having an honest claim denied for invalid reasons
These practices are all too common in long-term disability cases. An experienced attorney will provide invaluable support and assistance every step of the way and ensure you avoid these pitfalls.
Most importantly, an LTD lawyer will handle all the legal negotiations and bureaucratic red tape so you can focus on what matters most: your health and well-being.
A Long-Term Disability Lawyer Will Help You Avoid Costly Mistakes
Insurance companies make the application process purposely difficult, and they may try to take advantage of you throughout the process. An attorney can explain your insurance company’s policy so you have a clear understanding of your coverage and legal entitlement.
Without assistance, you may unintentionally say something damaging that could be used against you. Remember, it’s not uncommon for insurers to purposely word things in a way to trick or confuse you. If you fill out one form incorrectly, your claim could be denied.
By hiring an LTD lawyer, you can rest assured knowing each document will be completed meticulously and accurately.
A Long-Term Disability Lawyer Will Appeal Your Claim If It Isn’t Approved
If your disability claim is denied, you’ll have the opportunity to appeal – which essentially means providing the insurance company with additional information so they can review their decision. It is possible for an appeal to overturn the decision, but generally, it only delays the process further.
Some insurers will go to great lengths to deny your appeal. Imagine if your insurance company suddenly presented surveillance footage refuting your claim? This scenario is entirely possible – some companies will hire an investigator to follow you around with a camera in an attempt to prove you’re capable of more than you claim.
If this happens to you, you’ll want a skilled long-term disability lawyer to advocate on your behalf and fight for your rights.
Why Should I Hire a Long-Term Disability Lawyer?
Simply put, an attorney can help make your claim stronger. Their primary duty is to gather the necessary evidence and information to increase the chances of your claim being resolved successfully. Here’s how they can strengthen your case:
- Assist you with claim forms
- Review your medical records
- File your application and appeals in a timely manner
- Provide counselling to help you bypass common traps and loopholes
- Secure expert witness testimony
- Potentially get your claim approved faster
- File a lawsuit, if necessary
Insurance companies prefer working with unrepresented claimants because their claims are easier to deny without adequate reasoning. Having a personal injury law firm on your side forces the insurance company to take your case seriously.
When Should I Consult an LTD Lawyer?
Many people choose to seek legal counsel after their claim has been denied, but hiring an attorney at an early stage can take the confusion and worry out of the application process.
If you’re planning to file a lawsuit, it’s imperative to hire an LTD lawyer before you take legal action. Once you file a lawsuit, your record will be closed, preventing you from submitting any additional information afterward. If you hire a long-term disability attorney before your appeal is completed, they can add further medical evidence to support and strengthen your case if necessary.
It’s never too early to hire a long-term disability attorney. The sooner you have professional representation, the sooner you can determine the best way to proceed.
Conte Jaswal Can Help with Your Long-Term Disability Claim
At Conte Jaswal, we understand how difficult and burdensome this process can be.
If your disability claim has been denied, or if you feel overwhelmed by the application process, don’t lose hope. It may seem like you’re facing a losing battle, but you don’t have to admit defeat just yet – this is simply an indicator that it’s time to seek professional assistance.
Our dedicated team of experienced lawyers will fight for your entitlement and help you get the settlement you deserve.
We can assist you at any stage of the long-term disability claims process – whether you’re just starting out or if you want to file an appeal.
Don’t face the insurance companies alone – contact Conte Jaswal now for a free, no-obligation consultation to discuss your options.