Filing For Disability as a Result of a Car Accident

Car accidents are undeniably one of the most destructive events to occur in the average person’s lifetime. Although a number of car accidents end in only scrapes and bruises, many end much more dreadfully – such as with permanent, long-term, or very serious injuries. Due to their debilitating nature, these injuries sometimes disable victims, making it extremely difficult or even impossible for them to carry on with normal, as usual lives. When this is the case, injuries from car accidents may fall under the classification of disability, meaning a victim can file to receive disability benefits under Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI).

Filing for disability as a result of a car accident is no easy task, though often an important one. The process entails several steps aimed at verifying a victim’s eligibility for benefits. While individual steps of the process can vary slightly by state of residence, applicants can typically expect to consult with a doctor, complete and provide several forms and documents, and sometimes interview with a representative from their state’s Social Security Administration department. Filing for disability can be frustrating, time-consuming, and confusing, but can prove rewarding in the end.

When starting the filing process, timing is essential. Applicants are advised to file as soon as the disability appears, which here, is as soon as possible after the car accident. To begin filing, applicants should start at one of three places: the SSA website, the SSA toll-free number (1-800-772-1213), or the Social Security office nearest them. Any of these three places can provide the necessary forms to file for disability. Information to be provided on or with these forms include medical history, job history, definition of disability, contact information, and other documentation. At an interview, applicants may be asked to provide doctor proof of a medical condition and explanation of why employment is no longer possible.

If accepted, applicants should know that SSDI/SSI is based on a continuing application. This means that at the end of each period, applicants are required to refile to prove the continuation of their disease. Applicants who do not refile or are determined ineligible upon refile may have their SSDI benefits cut.

If denied, applicants should know that SSDI/SSI denials can be appealed. To appeal a decision, applicants should contact the SSA office nearest them or use the appeal form available on the SSA.gov website. For additional assistance with an appeal or the initial filing, contacting a personal injury lawyer or social security lawyer will be helpful.