Common Injuries Associated with Social Security Disability
There are a variety of physical and mental disabilities can prevent someone from being able to work and earn a living. For example, an injury sustained while working in a natural gas well in Mobile Bay may lead to chronic pain and mobility issues, making it impossible for the individual to continue working in the oil and gas industry. Additionally, mental health issues such as depression or anxiety can be just as debilitating and can prevent someone from maintaining steady employment.
If you or a loved one is in a similar situation, it’s important to consider whether an SSD claim is right for you. Social Security disability benefits can provide much-needed financial support for individuals who are unable to work due to a disability. However, the process of applying for these benefits can be complex and frustrating, which is why it’s usually beneficial to work with an experienced SSD attorney in Mobile.
Eligibility for Social Security Disability
Social Security Disability benefits are designed to provide much-needed financial assistance to those who are unable to work due to a disability. However, the process of applying for these benefits can be complex and frustrating, and the vast majority of SSD claims are denied after the initial application and even after the first appeal.
To be eligible for Social Security Disability benefits, you must meet certain criteria. Specifically, you must have a qualifying medical condition that meets the Social Security Administration’s definition of disability, which is typically a condition that is expected to last for at least one year or result in death. Additionally, you must have worked long enough and paid into the Social Security system to be insured for SSD benefits.
In Alabama, only about 34% of Social Security disability claimants are approved right away, which is slightly behind the national average of 39%. The majority of claims are denied initially and need to be appealed, and only about 15% of these claims are approved at the first level of appeal. This underscores the importance of having an experienced Mobile, AL Social Security disability lawyer on your side who can help you navigate the complex process of applying for benefits and appealing a denial.
Injuries that May Result in Social Security Disability
Here are some of the most common types of injuries in which an individual may want to consider filing an SSD claim:
- Musculoskeletal injuries, such as back injuries, can significantly affect an individual’s ability to work, especially if the job involves standing, walking, or sitting for extended periods of time. For example, a Mobile, Alabama construction worker who suffered a back injury from falling off scaffolding may not be able to continue working in that field due to the physical demands of the job.
- Cardiovascular injuries, such as heart attacks, can cause shortness of breath and chest pain, making it difficult to perform physical labor or even sit for long periods of time at a desk job. An individual who works as a Mobile, Alabama warehouse employee may be unable to continue working in that capacity after suffering a heart attack due to the physical demands of the job.
- Neurological injuries, such as spinal cord injuries, can cause mobility issues and pain that may prevent an individual from being able to work in a job that requires physical activity. For example, a Mobile, Alabama delivery driver who suffered a spinal cord injury from a car accident may no longer be able to drive due to mobility issues.
- Mental health conditions, such as depression and anxiety, can impact an individual’s ability to function and perform work-related tasks, which may prevent them from continuing to work in their job. For instance, a Mobile, Alabama customer service representative who experiences severe anxiety attacks may no longer be able to handle customer interactions effectively.
- Vision and hearing loss can make it difficult for individuals to work safely and efficiently, especially in jobs that require good eyesight or hearing. For example, a Mobile, Alabama construction worker who has lost significant hearing may not be able to hear warning signals or communicate effectively with co-workers, putting themselves and others at risk on the job.
The severity and impact of the injury on an individual’s ability to work is a crucial factor in determining their eligibility for SSD benefits. As we talked about earlier, applicants must show that their injury has lasted or is expected to last for at least 12 months and that it prevents them from performing substantial gainful activity.
Learn more about situations that may qualify for social security disability:
- Autism
- Back Injuries
- Depression
- Head Injuries
- Mental Disabilities
- PTSD
- Diabetes
- Physical Injuries
- Bipolar Disorders
- Hearing Loss
- Anxiety
Contact Our Seasoned Mobile, AL Social Security Disability Lawyer
There are several different types of injuries that could make you eligible for SSD benefits. However, navigating the complex application process can be confusing and difficult, and most people are denied benefits when they apply on their own.
If you need help with your Mobile, AL SSD claim, Walton Law is here to help. We can provide you with the guidance and support you need to get the benefits you deserve. Message us online or call us today at 251-455-5819 to schedule a free consultation and case assessment.