Long-term disability coverage is important, especially for those in the oil, gas, or energy sectors. Workers often face dangerous conditions and physical demands in these industries that can lead to disability. These injuries range from minor sprains and strains to severe accidents and exposure to toxic substances, resulting in permanent disability.
A long-term disability plan provides financial protection for workers who cannot return to work due to an illness or injury. If you work in the oil and energy industry and become disabled, you may qualify for disability benefits. If your claim is denied, a long-term disability attorney can help appeal the denial of benefits.
Purchasing Long-Term Disability Insurance
When purchasing long-term disability insurance, consider the policy’s definition of disability. Some policies may define disability as not being able to perform any occupation. Others may define it as being unable to perform one’s current occupation. You must understand the definition of disability before making a purchase.
Another factor to consider is the elimination or waiting period before benefits kick in. Some policies may require you to be disabled for several weeks or months, while others may have a shorter waiting period. The waiting period can significantly impact your finances.
Consider the amount of coverage and cost of premiums. The coverage needed depends on a person’s financial situation and the risk associated with their job. Premiums vary depending on the amount of coverage and the person’s age, health, and occupation.
Your long-term disability insurance coverage must provide the necessary financial support to cover medical bills and living expenses while you can’t work.
Many oil and gas companies provide long-term disability insurance as an employee benefit. If your employer provides your long-term disability insurance, it is likely governed by the Employee Retirement and Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA). ERISA’s rules and regulations can have an impact on your LTD claim.
Denied or Terminated Disability Claims
Individuals in the energy, oil, and gas industry are often entitled to a significant monthly disability benefit. As such, the long-term disability insurance company may be financially incentivized to deny or terminate your claim. If your claim is denied, read and understand the reason for the denial and the appeal instructions. Gather and submit all necessary documentation and follow the plan’s appeals process.
If you suffered a traumatic brain injury, you may be at a higher risk of the insurance company denying your claim. Disability insurance policies often have a two-year limitation on claims for a mental or nervous condition. The insurance company will try to claim that your condition arises from a mental condition rather than a physical condition. An experienced disability attorney can help you prove that your head injury is a bodily injury and qualifies for disability benefits.
FREE RESOURCE: We encourage you to check out our free step-by-step guide to appealing a disability insurance claim denial. The guide includes appeal templates for ERISA and non-ERISA claims.
Working with a Long-Term Disability Attorney
Long-term disability insurance is essential for oil and gas production workers. LTD insurance provides financial protection and peace of mind. In the event of an injury or disability that prevents one from working, you may qualify for benefits. If you are denied long-term disability benefits, an attorney can help.
Stop struggling to get the financial support you need. An experienced long-term disability attorney can help you navigate the claims process. The legal team at Ortiz Law Firm will fight for your rights and ensure you get the benefits you deserve. Call us at (888) 321-8131 to schedule your free case evaluation today.
Don’t Give Up on the Benefits You Deserve
We’ve helped clients nationwide recover millions in denied disability benefits.