Getting Long-Term Disability (LTD) Benefits After Suffering a Stroke

A stroke is a sudden interruption in the brain’s blood supply, usually caused by either an abrupt blockage of an artery leading to the brain or bleeding into the brain tissue from a burst blood vessel. A person may suffer from paralysis, speech and language issues, vision problems, and more, after suffering a stroke.

As such, long-term disability (LTD) benefits may be necessary for someone after they suffer a stroke. Yet insurance companies deny LTD claims often. This article will explore how a stroke can impair a person and some important tips when filing or appealing for disability benefits.

How Can a Suffering a Stroke Impair Your Ability to Work?

Experiencing a stroke can be a scary and life-changing event that, unfortunately, leaves many individuals with disabling symptoms long after the stroke has ended.

After suffering a stroke, you will likely be closely monitored for at least a day. Once discharged from the hospital, recovery will vary depending on the type of stroke, as well as the severity of the stroke, that occurred. The area of the brain that was affected by the stroke will also determine the necessary recovery programs.

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Most individuals who have suffered a stroke enter into rehabilitation programs with hopes of regaining as much function as possible and returning to their normal level of activity. Unfortunately, this process can be time-consuming and, in some cases, your previous level of function may not return.

Various complications can occur after you suffer a stroke, depending on the severity and the length of time the brain was without proper blood flow.

Many of these complications are disabling and could impact your ability to return to work. For example, paralysis on either side of your body could affect not only your ability to physically sit, stand, and walk around your workplace, but also interfere with your fine motor skills like writing, typing, and dialing numbers on the phone.

Additionally, cognitive issues like memory loss, as well as problems with speech and language, will likely interfere with your ability to communicate effectively, be efficient, multi-task, and concentrate during the day.

Lastly, you may experience behavioral changes and emotional problems such as impulsivity or increased fear and anxiety. This type of complication would not only interfere with your ability to be a reliable employee but could also impact your relationships at work.

How to Get Long-Term Disability Benefits After Suffering a Stroke

Complications are all too common and, unfortunately, can take a long time to resolve, if they can be resolved at all. Such complications can make working impossible and may necessitate LTD benefits.

To receive long-term disability benefits, claimants must prove that their stroke disables them under the terms of their insurance policy, namely, the definition of disability. However, insurance companies frequently deny claims.

All LTD claimants have the right to file an appeal. Under an ERISA-governed plan, this may be the last time a claimant can submit evidence of their condition to prove they require benefits.

Call CCK Today

At CCK, our professionals and attorneys can help you navigate the difficult claims process, file an administrative appeal, or file a lawsuit against the insurance company in court to try and get you the benefits you deserve.

We make sure the record has strong and complete evidence and put you in the best position possible before filing a lawsuit.

Let us fight for you. Contact Chisholm Chisholm & Kilpatrick today at (800) 544-9144 for a free case evaluation to see if we can assist.