Denied Disability by UNUM
Seek Trusted Representation from Our Disability Attorneys
Denied disability benefits by UNUM seems to be a trend right now. We have seen an increase in the number of clients with denied or terminated claims by UNUM. This trend of denials makes it more difficult for someone to be successful in getting the benefits they deserve. If you are one of them, we are here to help.
UNUM’s Financial Gain
UNUM is the largest insurance company in the United States. It handles thousands and thousands of claims, and makes millions of dollars. Its claims handling has a direct causal connection to its bottom line. Its business practices have been reprimanded in Court on many occasions.
UNUM has a history of unfair claims handling. In fact, in 2004, UNUM was the subject of a multi-state investigation into its handling of disability insurance plans and policies. The investigation revealed UNUM was denying claims without fairly and properly analyzing the claim. For example, UNUM was not interpreting attending physician statements or medical reports fairly. In denying or terminating claims it relied heavily on its own in-house doctors and nurses as opposed to outside, third-party reviewers.
As a result of this investigation and the resulting settlement, UNUM was forced to change its claims handling practices. Part of the settlement it also meant the company would have more people watching what it was doing and how it was doing it.
Has your UNUM Claim Been Denied or Terminated?
Yet, despite that, we have seen an increasing number of terminated or denied disability benefits by UNUM. It seems like UNUM is up to its old bad habits. For example, it is using more and more of the following to support the termination or denial:
- Peer review reports from it’s paid doctors
- Independent medical examination by its paid doctors
- Surveillance footage
Many of these reports and examinations contradict the medical evidence and the opinions of the treating physicians. UNUM does not care. It got what it needs to terminate or deny the claim. Thus it recovers money and keep up with its financial gain.
If you are applying for benefits, or are currently receiving benefits, from UNUM , it is important to understand potential outcomes. Most likely, according to the terms of your policy, you cannot refuse to attend an independent medical examinations. And you cannot stop UNUM from conducting peer reviews. However, you can help ensure your doctors provide solid support and your medical records reflect your disability and inability to work.
If your case ends up in litigation, it is important to have a complete claim file filled with supporting evidence. When the Judge looks at your case, they will look at your evidence vs UNUM’s evidence. But it will also consider the conflict of interest and financial gain to UNUM for terminating or denying your claim.
Our Disability Attorneys Can Help You
Dabdoub Law Firm was built to be a disability insurance law firm. Because all our disability lawyers focus on disability insurance claims, the firm has significant experience with UNUM and its claims handling. We understand their business practices and structure, and we are constantly learning more.
We are uniquely qualified to handle any stage of your long term disability claim with UNUM, including:
- Submitting a disability insurance claim
- Appealing a long-term disability denial
- Filing a lawsuit against your disability insurance company
We are also prepared to litigate your case and fight UNUM for the benefits you are entitled to. Hiring an experienced disability attorney is important. Because federal law applies to most disability insurance claims, our lawyers do not have to be located in your state.
Call for a free consultation with an experienced disability attorney.
