Dabdoub Law Firm has successfully appealed the denial of an Orlando woman’s disability benefits, which were originally unapproved by New York Life Insurance Company (NYL). Our client could not continue to work after undergoing brain surgery to remove a grade II meningioma, resulting in debilitating cognitive impairments. When NYL failed to properly review her case, she came to us for help. We’re glad to have convinced the insurer to reverse the denial without the need for drawn-out litigation that would have put our client under more duress.
Details of the Lockheed Martin Inspector’s Case
Our client worked for Lockheed Martin as a Quality Inspector. The role required an in-depth analysis of complicated systems and technology, which of course, needed her sharp mind and focus at all times. In 2019, she needed brain surgery to remove a grade II meningioma, which would ultimately change the course of her life.
Following the first brain surgery, she needed two more and several rounds of radiation treatment to address complications. By the time her treatment regimen was completed, our client suffered from daily migraines and debilitating cognitive impairments that make it impossible to focus, especially in a capacity that would be required if she tried to return to her role as a Lockheed Martin Quality Inspector. She also suffers from frequent dizzy spells and fatigue that interfere with even short stints of work.
To this day, she requires regular consultations with neurosurgeons and neurologists to learn more about how her condition may worsen with time and what she can try to do to adapt. As recently as March 2024, her medical team created a long list of symptoms, each of which interferes with her work to the point that it is unreasonable and potentially unsafe.
Six of the most prominent symptoms of her continued neurological conditions are:
- Impaired attention
- Impaired concentration
- Difficulty focusing
- Impaired short-term memory
- Confusion
- Difficulty with speech
NYL Denies Claim but Hits Legal Resistance
Although our client had a clear medical history that showed how her health conditions made it impossible for her to continue her work, and likely any form of gainful employment, NYL decided to deny her claim for disability benefits. Upon reviewing the case and the insurance company’s responses, our attorneys could only conclude that the insurer did not conduct a fair and meaningful evaluation of her condition.
At Dabdoub Law Firm, we always try to find a way to reach a fair settlement or outcome without going to court because it lets our clients get the benefits they need sooner rather than later. Attorney Kevin Schaefer, who took the lead on this case, sent a thorough and clear appeal letter to NYL, explaining why the medical evidence overwhelmingly showed the need for short-term disability benefits as defined and permitted by the company’s own policy. We are pleased to say that New York Life reversed its decision not long after receiving the appeal, so our client’s benefits have resumed.
Lawyers with Expertise in Disability Insurance Claims
This law firm has always focused only on disability insurance law. Because we specialize in long-term disability, our clients get the benefit of:
- Having an attorney who is an expert in long-term disability claims;
- Having an attorney who has experience with every major disability insurance company; and
- Being backed by a law firm that has a proven track record of winning tough disability lawsuits.
Call the Dabdoub Law Firm to get experienced disability lawyers on your side. We can help with:
- Submitting a disability insurance claim;
- Appealing a long-term disability denial;
- Negotiating a lump-sum settlement; or
- Filing a lawsuit against your disability insurance company.
The firm represents clients nationwide with disability claims governed by federal law, even if we are not located in your state.
Call (800) 969-0488 or contact us online to speak with an experienced disability attorney. Pay no fees or costs unless you get paid.
