Long-term disability insurance is meant to provide financial security when you are unable to work due to a medical condition. Unfortunately, insurance companies often deny claims, delay payments, or offer far less than what policyholders deserve. At Terry Bryant Accident & Injury Law, we understand the challenges of navigating the disability claims process, and we are here to fight for your rights.
You don’t have to face the insurance company alone. We get paid only if you win. Contact us at (713) 973-8888 or toll-free 1 (800) 444-5000 for your free and confidential case review to take the first step toward securing your benefits.
Why You Need a Long-Term Disability Lawyer
Filing a long-term disability claim can be overwhelming. Strict deadlines, complex legal terms, and insurance company tactics make it difficult to obtain the benefits you need. Having an experienced long-term disability attorney on your side ensures that your claim is properly documented and aggressively pursued. Whether you are filing your initial application or appealing a denial, we can help build a strong case backed by solid medical and vocational evidence.
Common Reasons for Long-Term Disability Claim Denials
Insurance companies deny claims for many reasons, often employing tactics designed to minimize payouts. One of the most frequent justifications is insufficient medical evidence. If your medical records do not clearly demonstrate the severity of your condition or the extent to which it limits your ability to work, your claim may be rejected. This is why it is crucial to work with a knowledgeable attorney who can help obtain the necessary medical documentation and expert opinions to support your case.
Pre-existing condition exclusions are another common reason for claim denials. Insurers may argue that your disability stems from a condition that existed before your policy went into effect, even if the condition has significantly worsened over time. Our attorneys will carefully analyze your policy language to determine whether the insurance company is improperly applying a pre-existing condition exclusion to deny your rightful benefits.
Discrepancies in medical records can also trigger a denial. If there are inconsistencies between what you report to your doctor and what is documented in your records, insurers may use this as grounds for rejecting your claim. We will work closely with your healthcare providers to ensure that your medical documentation accurately reflects your condition and limitations.
Surveillance footage and social media activity are increasingly being used by insurance companies to dispute claims. Investigators may monitor your daily activities, looking for evidence that contradicts your disability claim. For example, if you are seen performing activities that appear to contradict your reported limitations, insurers may use this footage against you. Our legal team will guide you on how to protect yourself from these invasive tactics and ensure that your claim is not unfairly undermined.
If your claim has been denied, do not lose hope. Our experienced legal team will thoroughly review your case, gather additional evidence, and aggressively challenge the insurance company’s decision. We are committed to fighting for the benefits you deserve and will work tirelessly to overturn wrongful denials.
How We Help with Your Claim
At Terry Bryant Accident & Injury Law, we assist clients at every stage of the long-term disability claims process. If you are preparing to file, we will ensure that your application is complete, accurate, and submitted on time. If you have already been denied benefits, we will handle the appeals process by obtaining additional medical records, consulting with specialists, and presenting compelling evidence to support your claim.
Our experienced legal team is dedicated to securing the benefits you deserve by offering comprehensive support, including:
- Filing Your Initial Claim – We make sure your application is complete, accurate, and submitted on time. Our attorneys gather necessary medical records, employment history, and other crucial documents to build a strong foundation for your claim.
- Handling Denials & Appeals – If your claim has been denied, we conduct a thorough review of the denial letter and insurance policy. We work to obtain additional medical evidence, consult with specialists, and present compelling arguments to challenge the insurance company’s decision.
- Challenging Wrongful Terminations – If your benefits have been abruptly terminated, we aggressively pursue reinstatement by demonstrating continued disability and financial need.
- Negotiating Settlements – We engage in negotiations with the insurance company to secure a fair lump sum settlement when appropriate, ensuring you receive the compensation you need for the future.
- Taking Your Case to Court – If necessary, we are prepared to litigate your case in federal court, presenting strong legal arguments and evidence to fight for your rights.
No matter where you are in the claims process, our dedicated legal team is ready to provide the representation you need to secure the benefits you deserve. For those whose benefits have been wrongfully terminated, we aggressively challenge insurance companies to reinstate coverage. If necessary, we are prepared to take your case to court to fight for your rights.
ERISA vs. Private Disability Insurance Claims
If your disability insurance is provided by your employer, it is likely governed by the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA). This federal law imposes strict guidelines on claims and appeals, limiting the evidence that can be introduced after the administrative appeal stage. Because of these constraints, having experienced legal representation is essential to maximize your chances of success.
For those with private disability policies, state contract laws apply. In Texas, insurance companies must adhere to the Texas Insurance Code and the Deceptive Trade Practices Act (DTPA), which protect policyholders from bad faith tactics. If an insurer wrongfully denies your claim, you may have legal recourse to sue for damages beyond your benefits, including attorney’s fees and potential punitive damages. Our legal team understands these complexities and can negotiate directly with insurers or take your case to court if needed.
Lump-Sum Buyouts & Benefit Protection
Some insurance companies offer lump-sum buyouts to settle disability claims. While this may seem appealing, these settlements often undervalue what you are owed. We help clients evaluate their options and negotiate fair settlements when appropriate.
Additionally, once you start receiving benefits, insurers require ongoing proof of disability. We assist clients in submitting necessary documentation to ensure continued payments.
Why Choose Us for Your Long-Term Disability Claim?
When your long-term disability benefits are wrongfully denied or delayed, you need a legal team that knows how to take on powerful insurance companies and win. At Terry Bryant Accident & Injury Law, we have decades of experience fighting for individuals who have been unfairly denied the benefits they rightfully deserve.
Proven Experience in Disability Law
Our attorneys have extensive experience handling long-term disability claims, including those governed by ERISA and private insurance policies. We understand the legal complexities involved in both types of claims and use strategic legal tactics to maximize your chances of success.
Personalized Legal Representation
We know that every disability case is unique. That’s why we take the time to understand your medical condition, policy terms, and financial needs. Our legal team crafts customized strategies tailored to the specifics of your claim, whether you’re filing an initial application, appealing a denial, or challenging the wrongful termination of benefits.
Aggressive Advocacy Against Insurance Companies
Insurance companies often use bad faith tactics to deny legitimate claims, such as disputing medical evidence or misinterpreting policy terms. We know their playbook and won’t let them take advantage of you. Our firm aggressively negotiates with insurers and, if necessary, takes them to court to fight for the compensation you deserve.
No Upfront Fees – We Don’t Get Paid Unless You Win
We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you owe us nothing unless you recover benefits. This allows you to focus on your health while we handle the legal battle. If your disability benefits have been denied or unfairly delayed, let us help.
You Can Fight Back Against Insurance Company Tactics
Insurance companies prioritize profits, not people. They routinely use delays, denials, and legal loopholes to avoid paying valid claims. At Terry Bryant Accident & Injury Law, we do not let insurance companies take advantage of our clients. We push back against unfair denials, improper claim terminations, and bad faith practices.
If your claim has been denied or delayed, do not wait. Contact us now today for a free and confidential consultation. Let us help you secure the long-term disability benefits you deserve.
Whether you’re filing a new claim, appealing a denial, or fighting a wrongful termination of benefits, our experienced attorneys are ready to help. Call us now at (713) 973-8888 or toll-free 1 (800) 444-5000 to get started.
Attorney Terry Bryant
Terry Bryant is Board Certified in personal injury trial law, which means his extensive knowledge of the law has been recognized by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization, setting him apart from many other injury attorneys. The 22 years he spent as a Municipal Judge, Spring Valley Village, TX also provides him keen insight into the Texas court system. That experience also helps shape his perspective on personal injury cases and how they might resolve. This unique insight benefits his clients. [ Attorney Bio ]