Can You Get Long-Term Disability For Vision Impairments In Florida?
Chronic health conditions, illnesses, and injuries can impact your vision, resulting in significant impairments. When vision impairments keep you from being able to work for a year or more, Florida long-term disability (LTD) benefits help offset lost wages.
Benefits may be available through an employer-provided insurance policy or the Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) program. Our Jacksonville long-term disability lawyer explains common causes of vision impairments and the steps you need to take when applying for benefits.
How Vision Impairments Can Cause Long-Term Disabilities
Vision impairments can develop from injuries, illnesses, or progressive conditions. The National Institutes of Health lists the following among the most common causes:
- Glaucoma, which is progressive, damages the optic nerve, and can lead to permanent blindness;
- Macular degeneration, which affects central vision, making it difficult to read, drive, or recognize faces, and is a leading cause of vision loss;
- Diabetic retinopathy due to uncontrolled diabetes, which can cause blood vessel damage in the eyes, leading to significant vision impairment;
- Retinal detachment, a medical emergency that can cause sudden vision loss and requires immediate treatment;
- Severe cataracts, which can lead to near-total blindness without successful surgery;
- Eye injuries or trauma due to workplace accidents, car crashes, or sports injuries that cause long-term or permanent blindness;
- Neurological conditions affecting vision, such as stroke, multiple sclerosis (MS), or brain injuries, which cause vision problems that make working impossible.
If vision loss prevents you from working or performing specific tasks on your job, you may qualify for long-term disability benefits in Florida. These may be available through an employer-provided LTD policy or by applying for Social Security disability.
Getting Disability Benefits for Vision Impairments In Florida
If you suffer severe vision loss, you may be eligible for long-term disability benefits through an employer-provided policy. Request copies of all policy-related documents, which your employer is required to provide under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA).
If you do not have employer-provided coverage, benefits may be available through the Social Security Administration, depending on whether your condition qualifies and if you have the required work credits.
Regardless of which type of claim you file, take the following steps to protect your rights:
- Get copies of all medical records from your eye doctor and any specialists confirming your diagnosis and disabled status;
- Undergo visual acuity tests or visual field assessments to prove the extent of your impairment;
- Gather statements from your employer and other evidence showing that your condition prevents you from performing your job duties;
- Get professional legal help, which increases your chances of getting a claim approved.
Request A Consultation Today With Our Florida Long-Term Disability Lawyer
When vision impairments prevent you from working, long-term disability benefits can help cover lost income. However, these types of claims are frequently denied or delayed. To protect your rights, contact Farrell Law.
We provide caring support and the trusted legal guidance you need to navigate the claims process. Reach out to our Florida long-term disability lawyer today and request a consultation in our Jacksonville or Orlando office.
Sources:
nei.nih.gov/learn-about-eye-health/eye-conditions-and-diseases
ssa.gov/pubs/EN-05-10052.pdf
dol.gov/general/topic/health-plans/erisa#:~:text=The%20Employee%20Retirement%20Income%20Security,for%20individuals%20in%20these%20plans
