When faced with the challenges of long-term disability, you may think of handling your claim yourself.
However, that is generally a huge mistake as you are later trapped in the complicated procedures and policy terms. Furthermore, you wait until your disability claim is rejected.
On the contrary, engaging a long-term disability lawyer can help you sail through the filing procedure smoothly and can improve the chances of your claim settlement.
Want more reasons to hire a long-term disability lawyer?
This article lists the top five reasons why you need a long-term disability lawyer.
1. Expertise in Complex Legal Processes
In long-term disability claims, numerous legal factors, policy provisions, and laws are involved. To anyone who may not be familiar with insurance law or LTD policies, such intricacies are quite confusing.
On the other hand, a long-term disability lawyer regularly deals with such issues and knows the legalities of policy and the language used by the insurers to underplay or dismiss a claim.
In addition, an experienced lawyer will look at the policy, discuss the guidelines with you and seek ways of handling the case. They will help you address all filing deadlines, avoid pitfalls, and present your case in the best manner that the court will be inclined to grant approval.
It is particularly useful if you need an explanation of legal issues, definitions of ‘disability’ or the procedure of an appeal in case the claim is rejected. Therefore, always ensure that you hire a local lawyer as they are more versed with the local laws and can hold meetings with you and your healthcare provider whenever needed.
For example, if you reside in California, always opt for a top California long term disability lawyer to ensure your case is in trusted hands.
2. Improved Chances of Claim Approval
A lot of LTD claims are rejected by insurance companies because of a lack of documentation, proven medical history or failure to meet policy standards. Furthermore, most insurance companies will scrutinize the details provided with the intention of reducing the potential payout on the claim.
In such cases, getting a long-term disability lawyer can increase your chance of getting your disability claim approved, as the lawyer knows the kind of documents that the insurers want.
Moving on, a lawyer makes sure that medical records, employment information, and any other supporting records are presented well to the court. They will coordinate with your doctors to obtain thorough and complete documentation supporting your medical condition and how it affects your employability.
Furthermore, they will also expound on any possible loophole that the insurer may consider while denying the claim.
3. Handling Appeals and Litigation
It can be frustrating if your long-term disability claim has been turned down. However, a denial does not mean that the options are exhausted.
A skilled LTD lawyer who practices in the area of disability law can assist you in the appeal process. They carefully study the denial letter to see why the insurer rejected the claim and how they will be able to reverse the decision.
The appeal process is, in most cases, bound to strict timelines, and a lot of care has to be exercised. Moreover, unless you understand the legal procedures required, it is very easy to make expensive mistakes.
A professional lawyer will always make sure that all deadlines are met and all the necessary proofs are submitted on time. They can also handle negotiations with the insurer and advocate for reasonable compensation based on the facts of the case.
4. Reducing Stress and Saving Time
Living with a long-term disability is not easy in any way; it is physically, emotionally, and financially demanding. In addition, the complexity of the claims processes often multiplies pressure on the individuals.
In such a situation, long-term disability lawyers can assist with claims on your behalf while you can concentrate on your health and rehabilitation.
Your lawyer will assume responsibilities like collecting medical records, filling in forms, communicating with the insurance company, and managing timelines. This can actually save you a lot of time and much frustration. They will also protect you from any strategies from the insurance company that may be meant to deter or overpower you.
5. No Upfront Costs or Financial Risks
The first thing that people tend to worry about when it comes to hiring a lawyer is the cost.
Thankfully, the majority of long-term disability lawyers practice under the contingency fee model. This is to say that costs such as those associated with initial deposits and other out-of-pocket expenses are not incurred.
Conversely, the lawyer will only be paid the agreed price after the case has been concluded in your favor and you receive your entitlements.
The contingency fee is advantageous since it means that the physically challenged individuals, who otherwise are financially strained due to their inability, would seek the services of an attorney without facing further financial challenges. Your lawyer shall be paid from the share of the benefits you obtain, which makes them work for your cause diligently.
Conclusion
The process of making an application for a long-term disability claim is often stressful, and this comes at a time when one is already struggling with the disability both physically and mentally as well as financially.
Having said that, there are various advantages of engaging an experienced and professional long-term disability lawyer, including legal expertise, high chances of a positive outcome, and litigation, besides saving time and stress.
Furthermore, there are no financial risks involved in proper legal consultation when it comes to contingency fee structured arrangements.
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