A Victim of the Pandemic
Ms. X, once a dedicated Safety, Health, and Environmental Manager, found her career unjustly halted on February 1, 2021. She, like so many others, has suffered long-term effects from the COVID-19 virus.
Today, she battles with symptoms that seem relentless, such as:
- Severe light sensitivity
- Fatigue that weighs her down
- Nausea that never fully ebbs away
- Vertigo that keeps her world spinning
- Headaches that squeeze her head with an iron grip
These symptoms indicate post-COVID syndrome, an illness that has snatched away Ms. X’s ability to work.
Her medical team, a trio of dedicated professionals, have all arrived at the same grim prognosis. Through rigorous evaluation and ongoing treatment, they've witnessed her struggle with less than sedentary work capacity. They all agree that Ms. X cannot engage in her regular occupation.
One of Ms. X’s physicians completed a Physician Questionnaire on July 11, 2023. He detailed Ms. X’s long list of diagnoses, including Long-Haul COVID-19, chronic migraines, depression, chronic fatigue, vertigo, brain fog, and chronic low back pain. The doctor explained how these symptoms translate into daily restrictions for Ms. X. She can sit for only 1 to 2 hours in an entire workday, stand for less than an hour, and walk for even less. The doctor noted Ms. X’s "poor endurance with walking," her inability to stand for long periods, and her incapacity to lift more than 10 pounds, all amidst severe pain and fatigue.
Acknowledging the severity of her condition, United of Omaha Life Insurance Company (“Mutual of Omaha” or “MOO”) confirmed Ms. X's total disability. The insurer recognized the complex symptoms she faces, and it acknowledged that she was unable to return to work.
A Decision with No Basis
MOO has all the evidence it needs to unequivocally conclude that Ms. X remains unable to work. Despite originally approving disability benefits, MOO abruptly decided to end Ms. X’s long-term disability claim. It did so without any evidence to suggest her health had improved.
This decision was based merely on reviews by MOO’s own hired consultants. The company neglected the detailed, consistent reports from Ms. X's doctors, and it ignored the objective medical evidence that confirmed her ongoing disability.
By ignoring the insights of her treating physicians and the consistent evidence of her condition, MOO failed in its responsibility towards Ms. X. It overlooked the clear fact that she cannot rejoin the workforce in any capacity.
Dabdoub Law Firm Steps In
At this critical juncture, Dabdoub Law Firm stepped in as Ms. X's unwavering advocate. Recognizing the grave injustice meted out by MOO, the firm crafted a strongly worded letter to the insurer. This communication was far more than a mere objection. It was a cogent reminder of MOO's fiduciary responsibilities towards its claimants.
The letter methodically dismantled the insurer's rationale for denying Ms. X's claim. It highlighted the overwhelming medical evidence and the unanimous conclusions of her treating physicians. The communication reminded the insurer that these professionals unequivocally established Ms. X’s total disability.
The law firm's intervention was a turning point. Faced with the prospect of a legal challenge and reminded of its ethical obligations, MOO reversed its earlier decision. This act is a victory for Ms. X and a testament to the power of determined legal advocacy. Against the backdrop of corporate indifference, Dabdoub Law Firm's unwavering dedication and compelling argumentation forced MOO to reinstate Ms. X's long-term disability benefits. Now, Ms. X has the financial support she desperately needs.
Help from an Attorney with Expertise in Disability Insurance
Disability insurance law is complicated. If your claim for long-term disability benefits was denied or being delayed by an insurance company, it is important to get help from a lawyer with expertise in disability law.
Why Us?
- Our lawyers specialize in disability insurance.
- Our lawyers have experience with UNUM, Hartford, CIGNA, Reliance Standard, and just about every other insurance company.
- Our lawyers have won tough disability insurance lawsuits.
- Our lawyers have recovered millions in disability benefits for clients who were wrongly denied.
Because federal law applies to most disability insurance claims, we do not have to be located in your state to help. Dabdoub Law Firm represents clients nationwide with:
- Submitting a disability insurance claim;
- Appealing a long-term disability denial;
- Negotiating a lump-sum settlement; and/or
- Filing a lawsuit against your disability insurance company.
If you are facing roadblocks to your disability benefits, our firm is here to help. For a free consultation, you can contact our team online or call our office at (800) 969-0488.