Long-term Disability Lawyer Ottawa
Consistently ranked as a Top 10 Personal Injury Law Firm in Ontario by Canadian Lawyer Magazine.
Facing a long-term disability is undoubtedly a daunting journey filled with both physical and emotional challenges. One significant obstacle may include potential financial struggles due to an inability to work. At Bergeron Clifford, our team of experienced personal injury lawyers is here to provide you with the legal support and guidance you need to navigate the complexities of long-term disability claims.
We recognize the unique nature of each long-term disability case and approach each with the utmost compassion, empathy, and dedication. We aim to alleviate the burden placed on you and your loved ones by working tirelessly to secure the benefits you are entitled to under your insurance policy.
What are Long-Term Disability Benefits?
Long-term disability benefits are a form of insurance coverage that provides financial assistance to individuals rendered unable to work due to a disabling condition or injury. This form of benefit aims to replace a portion of your lost income during the period of your disability. Whether you have a private policy or are covered under a group benefits plan, our lawyers can help you understand the specific terms and conditions of your coverage. For more information on long-term disability benefits, check out our blog on the subject written by our associate lawyer, Casey Dorey.
Qualifying for Long-Term Disability Benefits
To qualify for long-term disability benefits, it is essential to meet the specific criteria outlined by your insurance policy. These criteria typically include demonstrating the severity of your disability and its direct impact on your ability to perform the essential duties of your job. At Bergeron Clifford, our experienced team has extensive knowledge and experience in assessing and presenting the necessary medical documentation to support your claim for long-term disability benefits.
Medical Evidence
One of the crucial factors in qualifying for long-term disability benefits is providing comprehensive medical evidence. This evidence should clearly illustrate the extent and impact of your disability on your daily life, including your ability to work. Our lawyers will work closely with you to compile medical records and diagnostic tests from The Ottawa Hospital, Queensway Carleton Hospital, or other hospitals, along with expert opinions and other relevant evidence that effectively demonstrate the severity of your disability. We have established relationships with medical professionals throughout the Capital and experts who can provide thorough assessments and detailed reports regarding your condition, ensuring that all necessary documentation is properly obtained and presented.
Insurance Requirements
In addition to medical evidence, our team will also review your insurance policy to ensure that you meet the specific eligibility requirements. Understanding the fine print and nuances of your policy is crucial to building a strong case, which we have done with numerous providers, including Sunlife and Manulife. We will thoroughly analyze your policy to identify any potential roadblocks or challenges that may arise during the claims process.
Common Reasons for Long-Term Disability Benefit Denials
Unfortunately, insurance companies often deny or terminate long-term disability benefit claims, leaving individuals in a state of financial distress. Some common reasons for denials include:
- Insufficient medical evidence
- Disputes over the severity of the disability
- Pre-existing conditions
- Missed deadlines
- Bad faith on the part of the insurance provider
If your claim has been denied for any of the above reasons or perhaps other circumstances, it can feel devastating for both you and your family. According to the 2016 Auditor General of Canada report on the CPP Disability, as detailed by Disability Credit Canada, about 60% of initial CPP Disability applications were denied. However, these kinds of denials are not final. Our lawyers have a deep understanding of these cases and can help you fight for the benefits you deserve.
How to Appeal a Long-Term Disability Benefits Denial
Should your long-term disability claim be denied, our team advises prompt action, given that the window to appeal such decisions is usually limited. The exact period you have for an appeal varies; for example, in the case of CPP disability benefits, you have 90 days from the time you receive their reconsideration decision. This shortened period can cause additional stress as navigating the appeals process can be complex.
Opting to collaborate with seasoned legal professionals like our team can ease this process. We will steer you through each step, ensuring that all necessary documentation is prepared and submitted within the required timelines. We will work diligently to build a strong case on your behalf, advocating for your rights and maximizing your chances of a successful appeal.
Compensation for Long-Term Disability Benefits
If your long-term disability claim is successful, you may be entitled to various forms of compensation. These can include ongoing monthly payments to replace a portion of your lost income, reimbursement for medical expenses, vocational rehabilitation services such as occupational therapy, kinesiologists, mental health support, speech and massage therapy, and potential compensation for pain and suffering. Our lawyers will work closely with you to understand your unique circumstances and fight for the fair compensation available under your policy.
How Our Lawyers Can Help
At Bergeron Clifford, our dedicated team of long-term disability benefits lawyers has a proven track record of success in handling complex disability claims and is committed to providing you with personalized legal representation. Our lawyers will:
- Evaluate your case: We will review the details of your disability claim and help you understand your rights and legal options.
- Gather evidence: We will work with you and medical professionals to gather the necessary evidence to support your claim, including medical records, expert opinions, and other relevant documentation.
- Negotiate with the insurance company: We will engage in negotiations with the insurance company on your behalf, striving to secure a fair settlement that reflects the true value of your claim.
- Litigate if necessary: If a fair resolution cannot be reached through negotiation, our skilled litigators will be prepared to take your case to court and advocate for your rights before a judge.
Contact Us Today
If you are facing a long-term disability and need assistance in obtaining the benefits you are entitled to, we are here to help. We understand the complexities of these cases and are dedicated to advocating for your rights.
Contact Bergeron Clifford today to schedule your free consultation. During this initial meeting, we will listen to your concerns, evaluate your case, walk you through our process, and provide you with clear guidance on the best course of action. Our team is here to provide you with the personalized advice and support you need to navigate your case successfully.
Frequently Asked Questions
Long-term disability benefits can be available for a wide range of disabilities, including physical injuries, chronic illnesses, mental health conditions, and other medical conditions that significantly impede your ability to work. The specific qualifying criteria may vary depending on your insurance policy. We encourage you to contact us for tailored guidance based on your unique situation.
If your claim is denied, it is essential to take prompt action. Our team can assist you in filing an appeal within the required timeframe. We will conduct a comprehensive review of your case, determine the reasons for the denial, and construct a compelling counter-argument to challenge the decision. Our goal is to maximize your chances of success during the appeals process.
At Bergeron Clifford, our operational model is based on contingency fees. This implies that we do not impose any upfront charges, and our payment is contingent upon the successful resolution of your case. Acknowledging the potential financial strain you might be under, our primary objective is to afford you top-tier legal representation without exacerbating your financial obligations.
