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Oil and gas workers face significant hazards on the job, but long-term disability insurance can be a valuable safety net. LTD benefits replace lost income for workers who are unable to return to work for an extended period of time. However, the process of applying for these benefits can be challenging and complicated.
Careers in the Oil and Gas Industry
Short- and long-term disability benefits are often included as part of a group employee benefits plan. Some of the careers in the oil and gas industry that may benefit from long-term disability insurance include:
- Well testing operators
- Terminal operators
- Offshore technicians
- Oil field workers
- Foremen
- Geologists
- Rig managers
- Drilling, gas, petroleum, and pipeline engineers
- Surveyors
Challenges of Long-Term Disability Claims for Oil and Gas Workers
One of the first challenges is navigating the complex claim process. Claimants must provide information about their work history, medical history, and current condition. Claimants must also provide documentation from medical providers and employers. This can be a daunting and time-consuming process, especially when dealing with the stress and financial burden of disability.
Another challenge is meeting the medical requirements to qualify for long-term disability benefits. Employees must prove that they are unable to work due to a condition that is not excluded by their insurance plan. This can be difficult for oil and gas workers, who may have pre-existing conditions from previous injuries. Depending on the disabling condition, claimants may also have difficulty proving the extent of their disability.
In addition, insurance companies may try to deny or delay disability claims, even when the claimant is clearly eligible for benefits. The insurance company’s goal is to maximize the number of denied claims. This can be frustrating and discouraging for those who are already struggling and may not have the resources to fight back.
In some cases, the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA) complicates the situation even more. Most long-term disability claims are governed by this federal law. If you have an ERISA LTD plan, you must follow specific rules and regulations when filing or appealing your claim. Failure to follow to meet these requirements can destroy your claim.
Building a Winning Claim
Here are some tips for building a strong long-term disability claim:
Tip #1: Gather Strong Medical Evidence
Make sure your doctor documents your symptoms, pain levels, and any psychological side effects. Remember to collect records from all doctors that are treating your disabling condition.
In addition to medical evidence, you will also need financial evidence. Have your accounting records in good order so you can quickly answer any questions that arise.
Tip #2: Anticipate Surveillance
Many insurance companies will hire a private investigator to follow claimants, and this is completely legal. An investigator will stake out your home and take photos and videos of you. They may even go to your neighbors’ houses and ask questions about your daily activities. The insurance company is hoping to find evidence that will disprove your claim.
Tip #3: Stay Off Social Media
There is a good chance that your social media accounts will be monitored by the claims investigator. We suggest that you stay off social media completely until you return to work. The insurance investigator will also try to use any information you share against you as well.
Tip #4: Don’t Try to Return to Work Too Quickly
Resist the urge to return to work too soon, even if you are under pressure from the insurance company. Pushing yourself before you are ready could make things worse. You could injure yourself more and risk losing your long-term disability case.
Representation by the Ortiz Law Firm
Applying for long-term disability benefits can be a difficult and stressful process for workers in the oil and gas industry. However, it is important for claimants to understand their rights and options when it comes to long-term disability claims. Support and guidance from qualified professionals can help you navigate the process and secure the benefits you need and deserve.
If your claim for disability insurance benefits has been wrongfully denied, we can help you get the benefits you deserve. We offer a free, no-obligation case evaluation so you can discuss your case with an experienced long-term disability attorney. Call us today at (888) 321-8131 to schedule a free case evaluation.