If you’ve been involved in a serious accident, then it’s likely that you’ve suffered major injuries that will limit your quality of life and your ability to support your family. After experiencing a major injury that has affected your ability to work, you may find yourself in a precarious financial situation that leaves you wondering how you’re going to move on with your life.
Fortunately, Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) was invented for these situations. When considering what injuries qualify for disability, there are several important factors to consider, including:
- Severity and duration of the disability
- Medical evidence
- Work history
- Residual Functional Capacity (RFC)
- Ability to perform previous work or other work
- Impact on daily living activities
Here is some important information about accident injuries eligible for disability benefits, provided to you by the Southern California disability lawyers at The Law Offices of Dr. Bill LaTour.
Limb Injuries
Limb injuries, such as fractures, amputations, or severe nerve damage, can significantly impair one’s ability to work. These injuries can cause chronic pain, reduced mobility, and limitations in performing daily tasks.
To prove limb injuries for SSDI benefits, you must provide comprehensive medical records, including X-rays, MRI results, and physicians’ notes. Documentation of ongoing treatments, such as physical therapy, and statements from healthcare providers about the limitations caused by the injury are crucial. For a broken bone in your arm or wrist, you will need to show one or more of the following: a non-healing fracture, ongoing medical treatment, or inability to use your arm for up to a year.
Back Injuries
Back injuries, including herniated discs, spinal stenosis, and chronic pain, are common reasons for SSDI claims. These injuries can severely limit movement, cause persistent pain, and make it difficult to maintain a job.
Proving back injuries involves detailed medical evidence such as MRI scans, CT scans, and treatment history. Reports from orthopedic specialists and ongoing pain management treatments help establish the severity and impact of the back injury on your ability to work.
Soft Tissue Damage
Soft tissue damage, like severe sprains, strains, or torn ligaments, can also qualify for SSDI benefits. These injuries can lead to prolonged pain, swelling, and reduced function in affected areas.
To qualify for disability benefits due to soft tissue damage, you need evidence of lasting impact for at least 12 months or long-term treatment. Proof may include restricted mobility in two or more limbs and medical documentation such as imaging tests, treatment records, and doctor statements on limitations for work activities.
Mental Injuries
Mental or emotional injuries, including severe depression, anxiety, PTSD, or other mental health conditions, can be debilitating and qualify for SSDI benefits. These conditions can affect concentration, decision-making, and the ability to interact with others.
To prove mental injuries, you need thorough medical records from mental health professionals, including psychiatrists and psychologists. Documentation should include diagnosis, treatment plans, therapy notes, and statements on how the mental condition limits your daily functioning and ability to work.
Need Help Proving Your Injuries Deserve SSDI Benefits?
Proving that your injuries qualify for SSDI benefits can be challenging, but understanding the required evidence and following the right steps can significantly increase your chances of success. To ensure you get the benefits you need to support you after an accident, it’s in your best interest to work with an SSDI lawyer from the Law Offices of Dr. Bill LaTour.
We know what types of injuries qualify for disability, and we’ve been helping disabled individuals in the Greater Los Angeles area, the Inland Empire, and Orange County get the disability benefits they need for years. Contact Dr. Bill LaTour today to schedule a free consultation.
