Most people need to work to support themselves and their families. Unfortunately, some people might not be able to do so. Perhaps you have suffered a serious injury, making it difficult for you to hold a job. Maybe you have developed a chronic illness that prevents you from working. In this situation, you need to rely on long-term disability; however, there is a lengthy application process. You need to maximize your chances of getting approved. That is where relying on a long-term disability lawyer can be helpful. What qualifies as a long-term disability?
Degenerative Diseases
One of the most common examples of long-term disabilities is degenerative diseases. There are plenty of conditions that fall under this category. If you have been diagnosed with a condition that will get worse, not better, it may qualify as a degenerative disease. This can make it easier for you to qualify for long-term disability. For example, you may have been diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, a condition that can significantly impair your mobility, making it difficult for you to work. You might also have been diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, another degenerative condition that could make it difficult for you to work and do chores around the house. Degenerative diseases often qualify as long-term disabilities.
Neurological Disorders
There are neurological disorders that could make it difficult for you to work as well. Therefore, they may qualify as long-term disability. For example, you may have been diagnosed with cerebral palsy, which might make it difficult for you to keep a job. You may have been diagnosed with certain forms of dementia, which can make it hard for you to remember everything you have to do during the day, let alone hold a job. Even certain forms of epilepsy could qualify as a long-term disability. Epilepsy comes in many shapes and forms, so you need to work with a trained neurologist who can help you identify the most effective treatment option. Your neurologist may also help you figure out the prognosis of your condition, which could make a difference in your ability to qualify for a long-term disability.
Physical Disabilities
Finally, physical disabilities can also make it difficult for you to work. Therefore, you may qualify for long-term disability. For example, you may have been involved in a serious motor vehicle accident, leading to chronic back pain. Chronic pain could qualify for long-term disability, depending on the scope and severity. If you have been involved in a traumatic accident that led to an amputation, that could also qualify as a severe disability. You need to work with a medical professional and a lawyer who can review your situation.
A Professional Can Help You
There are plenty of injuries and illnesses that could qualify as long-term disability. It is critical to see a doctor as quickly as possible. That way, you can start the treatment process, which could make a difference in your prognosis. Then, if you are unable to return to work, you may need to file for long-term disability, which can support you as you recover. Because there are many moving parts in the application process, you should rely on an experienced attorney who can advocate for your rights and protect your interests. That way, you will have the financial and social support you need to make ends meet as you go through the treatment process.