Many people underestimate the importance of filing disability claims or how much they can get from filing one. This can mean getting denied or having to file an appeal that shouldn't have been necessary. A disability claims lawyer can help you make a better evaluation of your claim, get the paperwork done right the first time, and file an appeal if necessary. The following are a few things you should know before filing a disability claim.
How Much Your Claim Is Worth
If you've become disabled due to an injury, you may not be aware of how much you can receive from disability. You may be entitled to more than just a portion of your current wages. This could include adjustments for future cost of living increases, promotions, and more. If you're not aware of this information, you might think that your claim isn't worth fighting for. A disability attorney can help you to review your claim to find ways to increase your claim that you may not have even thought were possible.
You May Not Be Able To Return to Work
After a serious injury, it's natural to want to try to stay optimistic. This could include hoping that you'll be able to make a full recovery and go back to work or at least back to a different job paying the same amount. Unfortunately, this isn't always medically possible.
You have a limited amount of time to file a disability claim. If you wait too long because you think you will return to work, you may lose the right to file a claim.
You Can Use Your Own Doctor
Another common reason that people don't follow through on a disability claim is that the insurance company's doctor underestimates their injuries or they never go to the doctor because they don't think the doctor will be fair. You have the right to also go to your own doctor for a second opinion to use when filing your claim. If you wait until your claim gets denied, it can be harder to introduce new evidence from your own doctor.
Your Family's Circumstances Might Change
If you have a lot of savings or your spouse has a good job, you might not think that the money from a disability claim is worth it. However, if your financial circumstances ever change, it may be too late to go back and file a claim.
To learn more about how to keep your disability claim from getting denied or how to appeal a denial, contact a local disability claims lawyer today.
