Findlay Personal Injury Lawyers | June 11, 2025 | Long-Term Disability
Has your long-term disability (LTD) claim been denied by the insurance company? In many cases, these claims are denied without a thorough evaluation or based on a very narrow definition of disability.
When a claim is denied, you have two options: appeal the denial internally through the insurance company or file a lawsuit. A lawsuit usually offers the best chance of success because an independent judge will make a decision based on the merits of your case, not the biased insurance company.
Here’s what you should know about your odds of winning a long-term disability suit.
Why Long-Term Disability Claims Get Denied
First, it’s important to understand why LTD claims are denied. Insurance companies may deny benefits for reasons such as:
- Lack of “objective” medical evidence
- Disagreement over whether your condition prevents you from working
- LTD insurance policy language that changes the meaning of “total disability” after two years
- Missed deadlines or incomplete paperwork
- Claims that your condition is pre-existing
- Surveillance or social media content that suggests you’re not disabled
Even when your doctor confirms you’re unable to work, insurers may rely on their own in-house doctors to argue otherwise. This is why so many valid claims get denied.
What Are Your Chances of Success?
Insurers are required to offer at least one level of appeal. While some people win during this administrative appeals process, success rates vary.
When LTD cases go to court, the odds of success depend on several factors, including the strength of your evidence, potential costs of litigation, the expected disability duration, and whether you have legal representation.
Insurers know that going to court is costly and risky. Most LTD cases settle out of court, often for a lump sum or revised benefit structure.
What Can Improve Your Odds of Success?
Several things can boost your chances of winning an LTD lawsuit.
Strong Medical Documentation
Clear, consistent medical records that show how your condition limits your ability to work are key. Getting detailed letters from your doctor that explain your limitations in plain language can make a big difference.
Legal Representation
Hiring a long-term disability lawyer can improve your odds significantly. Disability law is complex, and insurance companies have teams of professionals working to protect their bottom line. A lawyer who specializes in disability claims knows how to challenge the insurer’s reasons for denial, gather expert opinions, and represent you in court.
Credible Testimony
Your credibility matters. Courts will look at your work history, treatment history, and how consistent your statements are. If your actions match your claims, like regularly seeing a doctor, trying recommended treatments, and avoiding strenuous activities, your case is stronger.
Expert Witnesses
It often helps to bring in outside medical or vocational experts. These professionals can explain how your condition affects your ability to perform specific job duties. Your lawyer will use independent medical experts who specialize in your condition to rebut the insurance company’s medical exam results and vocational assessments.
How Long Do LTD Lawsuits Take?
LTD lawsuits can take time. Many cases are resolved within 12 to 24 months. If a case goes all the way to trial, it can take longer. That said, most cases settle through mediation or negotiations before trial, often once the insurer realizes you’re serious and have strong evidence.
Winning a long-term disability lawsuit isn’t guaranteed, but your chances are much better when you have solid medical support and experienced legal help. While the process can be frustrating and slow, many people do succeed, often securing substantial settlements that help them move forward.
Contact the Hamilton Long-Term Disability Lawyers at Findlay Personal Injury Lawyers for Help Today
If your claim has been denied in Hamilton, Brantford, Burlington, or St. Catharines, don’t give up. Call Findlay Personal Injury Lawyers to schedule a free consultation. Speaking with a Hamilton long-term disability lawyer will allow you to assess your case, get an opinion on your odds of winning an appeal, and help you fight for the benefits you are owed.
We proudly serve clients throughout Southern Ontario and the surrounding communities.
Findlay Personal Injury Lawyers – Hamilton, ON
20 Hughson St S #510
Hamilton, ON L8N 2A1
(905) 522-9799
Our firm is located near you. We have an office in Hamilton
Find us with our GeoCoordinates: 43.2553232,-79.8684531
Findlay Personal Injury Lawyers – Brantford, ON
325 West St #102a
Brantford, ON N3R 3V6
(905) 522-9799
Our firm is located near you. We have an office in Brantford
Find us with our GeoCoordinates: 43.1537191,-80.2585384
Findlay Personal Injury Lawyers – Burlington, ON
2349 Fairview St
Burlington, ON L7R 2E3
(905) 522-9799
Our firm is located near you. We have an office in Burlington
Find us with our GeoCoordinates: 43.3446451,-79.8017007
Findlay Personal Injury Lawyers – St. Catharines, ON
55 King St Suite 207
St. Catharines, ON L2R 3H5
(905) 522-9799
Our firm is located near you. We have an office in St. Catharines
Find us with our GeoCoordinates: 43.1578472,-79.2471584
About The Author
Attorney Ryan Findlay is the founder of Findlay Personal Injury Lawyers. After earning his law degree from Bond University in Australia, Ryan returned to his hometown of Hamilton, Ontario, where he now serves clients across the region. He is licensed to practice law in Ontario and has over a decade of experience handling personal injury claims. Ryan’s practice focuses on helping victims injured in motor vehicle accidents, slip and falls, and other negligence-related incidents. Known for his compassionate approach and direct involvement in each case, Ryan is dedicated to recovering fair outcomes for his clients.
Location: Hamilton, ON
