How to Win a Prudential Disability Lawsuit: Tips from Legal Experts

Being denied your long-term disability claim by Prudential is frustrating and overwhelming. But to even navigate a prudential disability lawsuit successfully, you have to know the law that applies.

Prudential long-term disability benefit denials happen far too frequently when you lack the information and tactics required to protect your rights. In fact, unless such denials are actually warranted, most of the time, a well prepared appeal is going to get you paid in full benefits.

This blog discusses how you can win a prudential disability lawsuit with tips from legal experts to avoid the extra work of drafting an appeal.

1. Consult a Prudential Disability Attorney

The Prudential disability lawsuit process can be complicated and overwhelming, especially if you do not understand the ins and outs of insurance law. Hiring a knowledgeable Prudential disability lawsuit attorney who specializes in disability insurance and understands ERISA (Employee Retirement Income Security Act) regulations is likely to help your case.

Here are several ways working with experienced attorneys can help:

Legal Expertise: Expert disability insurance and prudential attorneys know insurance policies, the law, and what steps must be taken. They can pinpoint what's wrong with the denial decision and fix it.
Case Strategy: An attorney will guide you on the evidence to submit on appeal, along with written legal arguments as to why benefits should be paid under the terms of your Prudential policy.
Representation: Should your appeal be denied, an attorney can represent you in litigation, filing, negotiating, and arguing on your behalf.

2. Understand the Lawsuit Process

Winning a Prudential disability lawsuit begins with understanding how the process works. That means you need to understand the various stages you will pass through — from the initial application stage, through any appeals that may be necessary, and finally on to potential litigation if your claim is denied.

Here’s what you need to know.

Initial Claim Submission: Your journey with Prudential starts when you file a disability claim. Every information you share should be consistent with your medical condition and the terms of the disability policy.
Claim Review Process: A thorough evaluation of your claim may include gathering and examining medical evidence from appropriate sources, contacting your healthcare providers, or consulting vocational or other experts.
Denial and Appeal: If the insurance company denies your claim, you can appeal the decision. An administrative appeal is typically required before filing a lawsuit. During the administrative appeals process, the insured or their attorney can submit documentation and other evidence in support of an appeal.
Legal Remedies: If your appeals are exhausted, filing a lawsuit against Prudential may be necessary. This stage requires you to be well-versed with the legal framework governing disability insurance lawsuits, including ERISA, if applicable.

3. Gather Strong Evidence

When you file a prudential disability lawsuit, it’s all about the evidence. If you don’t have strong proof, your claim will not be successful. You must show beyond any doubt that you are disabled and that your disability keeps you from being able to work.

Here’s what you should gather to support your case:

Medical Records: Obtain copies of your medical records from your physicians. This should include test results, record of treatment, doctor’s notes and opinions, physician statements, anything that documents or shows specific treatments, and protocols you were given in connection to the cause of your disability. You’ll also need a detailed description from each physician stating how specifically your condition meets the definition of your disability policy.
Physician Support: A letter of support from your doctor is extremely important. Ask them to write a letter stating the diagnosis, the symptoms you are experiencing as a result of the diagnosis, and what you cannot do because of those symptoms.
Financial Documentation: If your disability has affected your income, gather pay stubs, tax returns, or any financial documents that demonstrate you have made less money as a result of your disability.
Personal Testimony: Sometimes adding in a personal statement that outlines what symptoms you experience, and how they impact your life on a day-to-day basis can bring a much needed “human” argument into the mix.

4. Maintain Effective Communication with Prudential

To get your questions answered and for the effective movement of your claim, it is important that you communicate effectively with Prudential. Some general guidelines that you should follow are:

Stay Proactive and Precise: Respond promptly and precisely to any request made by Prudential for either information or documents. It will show them that you are dedicated towards the resolution of your claim. Stick to simple and straightforward language based on facts.
Keep Detailed Records: Keep a record of all contacts you have with Prudential. Include the date and time of the contact or conversation, who you spoke with, and what was discussed. Also, keep copies of all e-mails, letters or other communications you send to, or receive from Prudential. Having this information will be helpful to you later on if issues arise that need to be addressed.
Ask for an Explanation: If Prudential denies your claim or does write requesting additional information – ask for a full explanation of all the details they need. This ensures you provide whatever will satisfy them and/or fill in any blanks.

Final Thoughts

Winning your long-term disability case against Prudential requires smart, deliberate action. While it can be tough, learning from legal experts who have handled such cases before should give you confidence on what to do next time you file a prudential disability lawsuit.

The above tips usher you into the minds of top legal experts, giving you deep insights into what you should and shouldn't do when going against prudential insurance companies. As always, be thoughtful with every step and consult expert attorneys for proper guidance until your claims are settled.