Short-term disability insurance provides employees in Ontario with coverage in the event of an unexpected illness or injury. Short-term disability benefits pay a percentage of the disabled individual’s wages for a specified amount of time.
But some claimants may have difficultly securing owed benefits. This is true even in cases where an individual has paid all premiums and has a legitimate claim for benefits. A lawyer may prove invaluable in such cases, or when a claim for disability benefits has been denied.
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Key ways in which a lawyer can help you with your short-term disability claim include:
- Helping you understand your rights – Disability insurance policies often are written in complicated insurance industry jargon. This may make it especially challenging to understand your rights and obligations under a policy. Your lawyer can cut through the legalese and help you understand your owed benefits and how to preserve a claim.
- Keeping your claim on track – A lawyer can ensure you reply to all of the insurance company’s requests in a timely and accurate manner – this includes filing any reconsideration requests. A lawyer also can act as your liaison with the insurance company to ensure no aspects of your claim are overlooked or mishandled.
- Presenting a compelling claim – A lawyer can ensure your claim or appeal is backed by sufficient evidence of disability.
A lawyer also can represent you in an appeal to the insurance company in the event of a denial of your claim.
Three Things to Consider When Choosing a Disability Lawyer
Take advantage of a free case consultation before you commit to working with a disability lawyer. During these meetings, ask plenty of questions and seek information on the following crucial factors:
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Rates
Ask the lawyer to outline the law firm’s fees policy. Ensure you know the current legal fees and timeline for payment before signing any agreement.
Most disability lawyers charge a contingency fee. This means you pay only if the lawyer is successful in obtaining benefits on your behalf. This allows you to pursue compensation without having to cover upfront costs. Instead, the lawyer takes an agreed-upon percentage (or portion) of the final settlement.
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Experience
Disability claims can be notoriously complicated and time-consuming. Such cases benefit greatly from past experience. Opt for a lawyer who has handled numerous disability claims that are similar to your own. Ask him or her how much of his or her practice is focused on short- and long-term disability claims and appeals.
Communication Policy
Your lawyer should provide you with a clear communication policy.
You also should been given instructions on how best to convey a question or concern to the party responsible for handling your claim which could include some if not all of these:
- email;
- phone calls; or
- in-person office visits.
Be certain to ask about the law firm’s typical turnaround time for providing clients with answers to questions on their claims.
Set up your consultation with the Preszler Law Firm by calling 1-800-JUSTICE® so you can review your case and evaluate whether we are a good fit for your case.
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