SSDI claims are sometimes denied because the Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) finds that the claimant lacks credibility. The rules governing review of SSDI cases were revised in 2016 and have eliminated claimant credibility as a determining factor in the claims approval process. On appeal, some denials that are based on credibility can be reversed by the courts. When an SSDI claim is rejected because of credibility issues, a Social Security disability attorney can help determine whether there is a basis to appeal the claim. A Fair Medical Evaluation In determining the validity of an SSDI claim, ALJs are required to conduct a […]
The use of baby boxes as safety devices may result in injury or death to infants. If a child is injured while confined in a baby box, parents may be entitled to damages. Fads versus Facts Baby boxes are being promoted as a safe place for babies to sleep. The reality is that much of the justification for the baby box fad is based on popular folklore and not so much on fact. The baby box concept originated in Finland where the government provides expectant mothers with a maternity package including a baby box for their newborn child. It is […]
The construction industry has the highest risk of work-related traumatic brain injuries (TBI). Construction sites present many dangerous situations, often made worse by hazardous weather conditions, that raise the risk for TBIs. Falls are a leading cause of injury and death on construction sites. Some result in TBIs that cause long-term consequences. Since many go undiagnosed initially, construction workers can suffer a TBI and continue working, not realizing that the injury is severe. Long-term consequences of TBI Research conducted by the University of South Florida and the James A. Haley Veterans’ Hospital found that TBIs cause progressive brain deterioration, elevated […]
Getting remarried can be a fun and exciting event in a person’s life, but for someone who receives SSDI, there are several extra financial facets that must be reviewed. Remarriage can affect disability benefits in various ways and the actual impact is largely dependent on whether the person receives SSDI or SSI. The Social Security Administration can help with general questions. A social security disability attorney may be able to provide a more detailed analysis of a specific case. Types of Benefits Since part of the eligibility for SSI is determined by financial need, the amount a person receives for […]
Understanding how toxic mold forms and the medical problems commonly associated with exposure to this dangerous substance can help individuals protect their health and their rights. Since toxic mold poses serious health risks to people, companies can be held responsible when their actions result in toxic exposure to others. How Toxic Mold Forms While most forms of mold are harmless, exposure to toxic mold can be very dangerous for humans. This type of mold forms when water leaks, flooding or poor humidity control creates an environment that causes extra moisture where mold can develop. When toxic mold is found, professionals must […]
Uber drivers and drivers for other rideshare apps may be able to receive compensation for work-related injuries through a process similar to workers compensation. Drivers should familiarize themselves with the insurance policy that their rideshare service uses so they know how to obtain benefits. Uber Offers Workers Injury Protection Insurance Uber has initiated a driver injury protection insurance program across eight states in the country, including Illinois. This program provides coverage for work-related injuries similar to workers’ compensation policies that employers purchase. Injured drivers may decide to contact a workers compensation attorney who is familiar with this program to ensure […]
Veterans may be eligible for expediting their SSDI claims due to a partnership between the Social Security Administration and Veterans Affairs. This special program allows disabled some soldiers to receive benefits more quickly. Medical Exchange The primary way that the process is expedited is through the Health Exchange. This is a process that allows the VA to freely share medical records electronically with the SSA. Medical documentation is necessary in every disability case. In cases in which electronic medical records are not accepted, the processing time often takes months for an agency or medical facility to supply such documentation. In comparison, […]
Protecting children from dog bite injury requires vigilance on the part of parents, guardians, and dog owners. Illinois law holds dog owners responsible for the injuries caused by unprovoked dog bites. When the victims are children, the injuries can be significant. A personal injury lawyer can help families receive fair compensation for dog bite injuries suffered by their children. Children are at Highest Risk 4.5 million people are bitten by dogs in the United States each year. Eight hundred thousand of those victims require medical attention. More than half of those are children. Children are in proximity to dogs more often than adults […]
According to OSHA, Healthcare workers, face a higher rate of injury from aggressive behavior than other professions. These physical assaults can result in serious injury, disability, and death. Hospital workers and their families are entitled to all of the benefits provided under workers compensation laws. Encountering Aggression is Part of the Job Nurses, EMTs, and other healthcare professionals routinely come face to face with the aggressive behavior of others. Their work often places them in tension-filled, traumatic settings. Many workers accept the violence as part of the job. In fact, healthcare workers at in-patient facilities like hospitals face five times more workplace violence […]
New rules regarding medical evidence change the manner in which disability claims are reviewed and approved. Claimants and their Social Security Disability attorney must understand the impact of these changes or face the possibility of delays and denial of disability claims. How the New Rules Affect Disability Claims According to the Social Security Administration, the intent of the rules changes is to eliminate duplication and bring clarity to the claims determination process. As a result, several long-standing practices have been modified or discontinued. Treating Physician Opinion is no Longer the Primary Claim Determination Factor For several decades, the medical opinion of the treating physician had controlling weight […]
