Will Whiplash Qualify Me for Disability Benefits?
Chronic whiplash pain can create multiple difficulties and interfere with your quality of life in multiple ways, one of which is job performance. Some people may even lose their job or find working a full-time job nearly impossible. Depending on your symptoms, You may not have to keep dealing with this. You could be eligible for disability benefits. Find out by discussing your options for disability benefits with a Wilmington disability attorney.
IMPAIRMENTS CAUSED BY WHIPLASH
Not everyone realizes how many complications chronic whiplash can cause. In many cases, whiplash symptoms resolve within a few weeks or months. However, severe whiplash injuries can result in symptoms that last several years. When symptoms are chronic and severe, many people are unable to continue working.
The most well-known symptom of whiplash is neck pain. Some cases of whiplash involve pain that spreads to the shoulders and back. Chronic pain can result in neck and shoulder stiffness over time. Other common symptoms of whiplash include:
- Lost range of neck and shoulder motion
- Chronic headaches
- Tingling and numbness
- Dizziness
- Drowsiness
More severe whiplash symptoms can turn into blurry vision, memory problems, and ringing ears. Chronic pain can build up to insomnia, problems with concentration, and irritability. This can impact daily functioning and interpersonal relationships.
Chronic whiplash pain is more common when pain spreads, pain is severe, and bodily range of motion is significantly impacted. Previously existing neck or back pain can be worsened by whiplash injuries. When treatments and time fail to reduce whiplash symptoms, chronic whiplash becomes more likely.
Various treatments are available for managing chronic whiplash pain, like medications, injections, and physical therapy. However, when these treatments fail to relieve pain, work performance can be negatively impacted. Pain and range of motion challenges can hinder physical labor work and interfere with concentration, following instructions, and other work tasks.
ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA FOR DISABILITY BENEFITS
When it comes to disability benefits eligibility, the most important part is meeting the definition of a disability. The Social Security Administration (SSA) defines a disability as a physical or mental condition that significantly impairs work performance. Partial and short-term disabilities are not eligible.
Your whiplash injury must be expected to last at least one year and prevent you from earning a basic income. A certain number of work credits are needed for the Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) program. Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is provided as an alternative when someone does not have enough work credits. Those under SSI can earn income, but this income must not exceed a certain monthly amount.
While whiplash may not be listed in the SSA Blue Book of disability listings, your symptoms may still qualify you for benefits. Try contacting a Wilmington disability lawyer if you have questions about how this process works.
CONTACT EDELSTEIN MARTIN & NELSON FOR LEGAL HELP
You do not have to settle for no disability benefits. Talk to a Delaware disability lawyer about your legal options if your disability claim was denied. All you have to do is call Edelstein Martin & Nelson by dialing (302) 295-5050 for a free consultation today. Our attorneys are ready to help you maximize your chances of receiving disability benefits. We are located in Wilmington, DE.
