Florida Long-Term Disability Benefits For Back Injuries: Four Types Of Evidence Needed
If you are among the many Florida residents who suffer back injuries, you know how painful it can be and how it can impact you on the job. If you have long-term disability (LTD) insurance through your employer or a private policy, you may be entitled to benefits if your condition prevents you from working. However, getting them is rarely easy.
The insurer may question the severity of your condition or argue that you can still perform your job. Strong evidence is often the difference between approval and denial. Our experienced Jacksonville long-term disability lawyer explains common back conditions eligible for LTD benefits and four types of evidence needed when filing a claim.
Back Injuries That May Qualify for Long-Term Disability Benefits in Florida
Back pain is a common problem. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that close to 40 percent of all adults suffer from it. When it interferes with your ability to work, long-term disability benefits can provide a lifeline.
These benefits may be available through your employer and can help cover up to two-thirds of your lost wages if you are unable to work for a year or more. Common back conditions that are often covered include:
- Herniated or bulging discs.
- Degenerative disc disease.
- Spinal stenosis.
- Sciatica and other nerve-related conditions.
- Spinal fractures and other serious injuries.
Keep in mind that back injury cases are among the most disputed types of claims. To protect your right to benefits, you’ll need strong evidence.
Four Types of Evidence That Support Florida LTD Back Injury Claims
When filing a Florida long-term disability claim for back injuries, focus on evidence that clearly documents your condition, limitations it causes, and how that affects you on the job. This includes:
- Medical records: Treatment notes, diagnostic imaging, test results, medication records, and other medical documentation help establish the nature and severity of your condition.
- Doctor’s opinions: Have your treating physician explain how your back condition affects your ability to sit, stand, walk, lift, bend, or perform other job duties.
- Functional limitations: Keep records describing what you can and cannot do, such as how long you can sit or stand, how much you can lift, and how often you need to change positions.
- Work-related evidence: Your job description, performance records, and other information can help show how your condition impacts you on the job.
Even with this evidence, your claim may be denied. In this case, the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA) protects your rights in filing an appeal.
Back Pain Making It Impossible to Work? Contact Our Experienced Florida Long-Term Disability Lawyer
Back injuries are among the most painful conditions and can prevent you from working. At Farrell Disability Law, our experienced Fort Lauderdale long-term disability lawyer protects your rights and helps you get the compensation you need to recover.
For trusted, local legal help filing a claim or appealing denied benefits, call or contact us online. Request a consultation at our Jacksonville or Orlando office today.
Source:
cdc.gov/nchs/products/databriefs/db415.htm
dol.gov/general/topic/retirement/erisa