Long-term Disability
Lawyers in Toronto
Disability claims are complex: they require a lot of
exacting paperwork and reams of support material from medical professionals
that must be submitted according to a strict schedule. Long-term disability
claims are some of the most expensive claims for insurance companies, so it’s
only to be expected that they look to deny them whenever possible. Although
exact numbers aren’t available, it’s not uncommon for these types of claims to
be denied. You’ll want to make sure that you have everything in order for your
initial submission, and a long-term disability lawyer in Toronto can help to
guide you through that process. A lawyer can also provide emotional support for
your family during a difficult time as you fight for what you deserve.
What to Know When
Claiming Long-Term Disability
There are a number of reasons why these types of claims are denied
by insurance companies. Here are just a few of them:
- Lies on
the application form. If you fudged the truth in any way on the application
form, rest assured that your insurance company will try to trip you up with
that lie now. Because non-smokers pay premiums of about half of what smokers
pay, for instance, you may have claimed you didn’t smoke. If your medical
history or social media posts contradict that information, the company has
grounds for denial.
- Policy
exclusions. Some policies
exclude certain illnesses, such as those caused by alcoholism or drug use,
on the grounds that the policy-holder is responsible. Others exclude
early-stage cancers or dementia.
- Insufficient
submission. Incorrectly completed forms, missing medical information,
inexact descriptions or lack of evidence regarding how your disability affects
you can deny your claim. Also, information not submitted within the time limits
as outlined in policy will affect your submission.
- Disability
does not fit the definition. This is by far the most common reason why
claims are denied. Insurers often state that there is a lack
of objective medical evidence to support that the claimant is unable to
work. However, there are many illnesses that cannot be confirmed through
testing, such as chronic pain, fibromyalgia, and depression.
Working with an experienced LTD lawyer can help to increase
the chances of your claim being approved. If, however, your claim is denied
initially, a lawyer can take you through the appeal process. The chances of
successfully reversing the insurer’s decision by appealing are quite good;
although many LTD claims are initially denied, they are often accepted
upon appeal.
Finding the Right LTD
Lawyer in Toronto
Disability claims are not the same as personal injury
claims, but many times disability lawyers work for personal injury law firms,
so you can start your search for legal help at firms near you. Look for a law
firm that meets your needs. If you are in hospital or confined to your home,
find a lawyer who is willing to travel to where you are, for instance. And if
you prefer to communicate in a language other than English, look for a law firm
that offers services in your mother tongue, or translation services. Most firms
offer a free initial consultation.
Disability claims can be a real battle. It’s good to have
someone by your side, fighting to get you what you deserve. Contact a long-term
disability lawyer in Toronto today and find out more.