Back And Spine Problems In Florida Long-Term Disability Claims
Back and spine conditions are among the most common reasons people file for long-term disability (LTD) benefits in Florida. If you’re struggling to work and thinking about filing an LTD claim, it’s important to know what to expect.
Our experienced Jacksonville long-term disability lawyer helps clients in this situation and pushes back when insurers deny or downplay benefits. Find out what they look for when reviewing back and spine-related disabilities and how to strengthen your claim.
What Florida Insurers Look for in Back-Related Long-Term Disability Claims
Do you suffer from back or neck problems? You are not alone. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)in Atlanta reports that nearly half of all adults deal with back and spine issues, such as degenerative disc disease, herniated discs, scoliosis, and spinal stenosis.
When back issues prevent you from working for a year or more, long-term disability benefits available through your employer may be able to help. While these benefits can make up for as much as two-thirds of your former wages, insurers are quick to either deny or downplay back-related LTD claims. Common reasons include:
- You do not have a firm diagnosis from your doctor.
- There’s not enough objective medical evidence, such as MRIs or CT scans.
- Your medical records don’t explain how the pain limits your ability to work.
- You’ve tried to “work through it,” which they claim means you’re not disabled.
- You haven’t seen a specialist or a physical therapist, and you haven’t followed treatment plans.
Unfortunately, many of these issues come down to paperwork, not the reality of your pain. A detailed, well-documented claim is key, and so is making sure your doctor is providing the right kind of support.
Tips for Strengthening A Florida LTD Claim for Back Issues
If you’re getting ready to file a long-term disability claim in Florida for back issues, take the steps needed to strengthen your claim. These include:
- Ask your doctor for a statement confirming your diagnosis and clearly explaining your functional limitations.
- Keep up with treatment, even if it’s slow going, as gaps in care can raise red flags.
- Document how your pain interferes with work tasks, daily living, and mobility.
- Ask your employer for a copy of your long-term disability policy, which they must provide under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act, or ERISA.
Carefully reviewing the terms of your policy and gathering evidence in support of your claim can help in getting the long-term disability benefits you are entitled to.
Can’t Work Due To Back Issues? Contact Our Jacksonville Long-Term Disability Lawyer
At Farrell Disability Law, we understand how back pain can take over your life. Unfortunately, we also know that insurers are quick to dispute these claims. We help people across Florida fight back against denials and delays and get the LTD benefits they deserve.
When back issues keep you from working, you can count on us for personalized support and professional legal representation. Contact our office in Jacksonville or Orlando to schedule a consultation with our experienced Florida long-term disability lawyer today.
Sources:
cdc.gov/nchs/products/databriefs/db415.htm
dol.gov/general/topic/retirement/erisa
