Some of the most dangerous and deadliest motor vehicle accidents involve commercial trucks and smaller passenger vehicles.

Driving near an 18-wheeler or semi-truck in a passenger vehicle can be frightening. These vehicles are much heavier, longer and wider than passenger vehicles. An accident is more likely to be catastrophic to a passenger vehicle, with an increased risk of severe injury. Below, we discuss the risks of sharing the road with commercial trucks and what you can do to avoid an accident with these vehicles.

A licensed truck accident lawyer in Oshkosh is here to help if you have been injured in an accident with a commercial truck. You may be eligible to pursue significant compensation to help cover your medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering and more. The initial consultation is free with no obligation involved.

Zero Upfront Fees for Our Services. Ph: (920) 260-4528

What Are the Inherent Risks of Being Near an 18-Wheeler?

There are several inherent risks of being near an 18-wheeler or another larger commercial truck:

• Larger blind spots – 18-wheelers and other commercial trucks have larger blind spots located in the front, back and sides. Even the most cautious truck drivers on the road may fail to see you if your vehicle is traveling within the truck’s blind spots.
• Cargo may shift during transit – A shifting load in transit may damage the cargo and also result in uneven weight distribution, making a commercial truck unsafe. Improperly secured cargo may spill onto the road, causing drivers to steer away from the spill to avoid an accident.
• Lack of underride guards – Federal regulations require commercial trucks to have underride protection. However, not all vehicles have underride guards. Without this protection in an accident, a passenger vehicle may slide underneath the truck, increasing the risk of fatal injuries.
• Trucks can roll over – Commercial trucks have a different center of gravity than passenger vehicles. 18-wheelers are inherently dangerous since they are more likely to roll over as they pass through a curve in the road or as they navigate an on-ramp or an off-ramp.
• Trucks can jackknife – When a commercial truck jackknifes, the cab loses control of the trailer, causing it to swing out at a 90-degree angle. Jackknifing trucks often cause serious accidents.
• Tire blowouts – 18-wheelers and other larger trucks are more likely to experience a tire blowout due to the long distances truck drivers must travel in combination with heavier truck loads.
• Driver error due to negligence – A negligent truck driver can put your safety and the safety of others sharing the road at risk. Distracting activities are common and can result in driving errors. Trucks drivers may even speed or operate their vehicles while fatigued to meet deadlines.

How Can You Share the Road Safely with an 18-Wheeler?

It is important for drivers to be proactive and take the necessary precautions to stay safe on the road.

Staying Out of Blind Spots

If you are in an 18-wheeler’s blind spots or “No-Zones,” the truck driver cannot see you. These blind spots restrict the truck driver’s ability to take action to avoid an accident, especially if he or she is attempting to change lanes or make a turn. It is best to stay out of a truck driver’s blind spots altogether. If you cannot see the truck driver in their side mirror, then the truck driver will probably not be able to see you either.

Keeping a Safe Distance

Commercial trucks require more stopping distance than passenger vehicles. This distance increases when there are adverse road conditions when the roads become slippery and wet. Following an 18-wheeler too closely does not allow you to safely slow down or come to a complete stop. If cargo falls out of the truck or there is a tire blowout, your vehicle may get hit, causing a crash.

Being Careful When Passing or Merging

When passing an 18-wheeler or merging into traffic near these vehicles, be sure to leave enough space in front of you to move past the truck safely. Do not pass commercial trucks on downgrades when they pick up speed. Be sure you can see the truck in your rearview mirror before getting in front of the truck.

Avoiding Distractions

Engaging in any type of distracting behavior, such as talking on the cellphone, texting or eating and drinking behind the wheel can be dangerous. You should always remain alert and cautious when driving behind, next to or near an 18-wheeler. Otherwise, you may cause an accident.

Not Cutting Off a Commercial Truck

Be sure to give commercial trucks plenty of room and do not cut too close in front of them. Even in ideal conditions, trucks weigh substantially more than passenger vehicles, so it takes more time and distance to slow down or come to a full stop. If you cut off a truck, you may get hit from behind and lose control of your vehicle. Worse, your vehicle may spin out and hit other vehicles in front of you or next to you.

Being Prepared for Wide Turns

18-wheelers also need plenty of room to make wide turns. If you are in a lane next to a commercial truck, it is best to slow down or change lanes if possible to give the truck the room it needs. Do not try to nudge past an 18-wheeler when it is turning to avoid getting pinned between the trailer and the curb.

Practicing Patience

Accidents frequently occur when drivers are impatient or fail to wait to make sure it is safe to make a maneuver. It is important to give truck drivers more time to see you on the road and react to you.

Avoiding Driving Drowsy or Impaired

If you are feeling tired or exhausted, you should pull over to the side of the road. Drowsy driving can be just as dangerous as drunk driving. Fatigue and alcohol consumption can cause slower reaction times and an inability to stay focused on the road. This could prove fatal in an accident with an 18-wheeler.

Reach Out to Our Firm Today for Trusted Legal Help

At Sigman Janssen, we have the resources and experience to help you pursue the compensation you need after being injured or losing a loved one in a truck-related accident. We know the common tactics trucking companies and their insurance companies may use to avoid responsibility in these cases.

Our firm has recovered millions on behalf of our clients, including victims of truck accidents. Reach out today to schedule a free consultation and learn more about your rights and available legal options. There are zero upfront fees for our services. We only get paid if we help you obtain compensation.

Call (920) 260-4528 for a Free Case Review Today.

If you apply for Social Security Disability benefits, the Social Security Administration (SSA) will want to see that you have been seeing a doctor consistently and following his or her prescribed treatment.

Part of your treatment may include undergoing surgery to help improve your condition. If you refuse to have the operation, your disability claim may be denied. However, there are certain exceptions.

At Sigman Janssen, our lawyers have been helping disability claimants obtain the benefits they need for over three decades. We are here to help applicants secure the benefits they need and we offer a free consultation to answer any questions you may have about the process. If you have a valid claim, we charge zero upfront fees to represent you.

Talk to a lawyer today. Ph: (920) 260-4528

Applying for Disability and Refusing Surgery

It is every person’s right to choose whether to have medical treatment. This includes the right to refuse a surgical operation. The SSA cannot force anyone to undergo surgery.

However, if your doctor has advised that you should have surgery because it may improve your medical condition and help you return to work and you refuse, the SSA is not obligated to pay you disability benefits. The SSA may use your refusal to follow treatment as justification to deny your disability claim.

For example, perhaps you suffer from a spinal disorder and your treating doctor has advised that you undergo a spinal fusion because he or she reasonably thinks it will help provide pain and symptom relief. You refuse to have the operation and do not get a second opinion. In this case, you may be denied benefits, although you were within your right to refuse the surgery.

Claim Denied for Not Following Treatment

Before the SSA can deny a disability claim based on failure to follow the prescribed treatment, several factors must be considered. The SSA must determine that the following is true:

• Your condition does not allow you to work
• Your condition has or will last for at least a year
• Your doctor has advised surgery to improve your condition
• The surgery is anticipated to help you return to work

Your medical records must also indicate that surgery has been recommended and you have refused it. Your disability claim will not be affected if the recommendation came from an SSA-approved doctor or consultative examiner and not your treating doctor. With that being said, the SSA does have the final say on whether you are approved for disability benefits.

When Non-Compliance Cannot Cause a Denial

There are certain exceptions when being non-compliant cannot be used as a reason to deny a disability claim. These exceptions include the following:

Fearful of Having Surgery

Your fear of surgery must be well documented by medical professionals for the SSA to make an exception. Your treating doctor must be well informed about how intense your fear of surgery is.

Otherwise, the SSA may ask that you get an independent exam by a psychiatrist to validate that your fear is real and that having surgery could likely cause more harm than good.

Against Religious Beliefs

If having surgery is against your religious beliefs, the SSA may excuse your refusal of surgery. You will need to provide proof of your religious affiliation and that your religion’s beliefs on having surgery are well-documented. This information can be provided by an official of your religious institution.

Cannot Pay for Surgery

Your inability to pay for the surgery may be seen as a reasonable exception. You will need to provide proof that you lack the financial means to afford surgery and that you have exhausted all efforts in looking for low-cost or no-cost treatment options. This could involve qualifying for Medicaid.

Conflicting Recommendations

If your doctor advised surgery for your condition but you got a second opinion from another doctor advising against surgery, the SSA may make an exception. You are not obligated to follow treatment if given conflicting recommendations. Your medical records must show these differing treatments.

Previous Surgery Failed

If you previously had surgery for your condition but it was not successful, refusing another surgical procedure may be seen as reasonable. This includes undergoing the same or similar operation to help relieve the same symptoms.

High-Risk Factor

Some surgeries are risker than others. The SSA cannot deny your disability claim if the surgery that has been recommended comes with a higher risk of complications due to the nature of the surgery. Open-heart surgeries, organ transplants and bone-marrow transplants are all examples of risky surgeries.

Surgery Involves Amputation

Any surgery that may involve amputation of one or more upper or lower extremities will likely be seen as a reasonable excuse for not following the prescribed treatment.

We Are Available 24/7 to Take Your Call

Making important decisions about your health is no easy task. This includes deciding whether to have surgery to help improve your condition and enable you to work. Our experienced Social Security Disability lawyers in Oshkosh are ready to offer guidance in a risk-free, zero-obligation consultation.

There are no upfront fees to hire our firm and no fees while we work on a case. We only get paid for our services if we are successful in helping you secure the benefits you need.

Call us at (920) 260-4528 to get started.

Knee-replacement surgery is a common surgical procedure to help reduce pain and improve mobility to a knee damaged by arthritis. Although most people are able to make a full recovery after undergoing this type of surgery, some people may become disabled due to knee-replacement complications.

These complications may include persistent knee pain, implant failure, infection, knee stiffness, swelling and limited mobility. A second surgery or revision may be needed, but this can also cause severe complications that affect a person’s ability to return to his or her previous job or work at all.

If knee-replacement surgery has left you disabled and unable to work, you may be able to obtain disability benefits. However, not everyone who files a disability claim is approved by the Social Security Administration (SSA). Certain criteria must be met to increase your chances of getting benefits.

An Oshkosh Social Security Disability lawyer is ready to help. An initial consultation is free of charge.

Call (920) 260-4528 for a Free Case Review.

Meeting or Equaling a Listing in the Blue Book

The SSA evaluates knee-replacement complications by looking at whether or not a claimant is totally or permanently disabled. This is done by comparing a claimant’s symptoms to an impairment listed in the Blue Book. Your impairment must be serious enough to meet the criteria, such as clinical and lab tests.

it is important to talk to your doctor about your limitations. The more he or she can include about your limitations in clinical testing, observations and opinions in your records, the better chance for your claim to be approved. Most knee replacements are deemed successful, with people recovering within a year. You need sufficient medical evidence that your impairment has lasted or will last for at least a year.

The medical criteria for knee replacements can be found under Section 1.17 (Reconstructive surgery or surgical arthrodesis of a major weight-bearing joint). To meet or equal this listing in the Blue Book, your knee problems must cause severe physical limitations, such as difficulty walking or climbing stairs.

The following documentation must be submitted to the SSA:

• Record of having knee replacement surgery on one or both knees
• Notes from your doctor regarding your difficulty moving due to knee problems
• Evidence of your inability to walk without a wheelchair or another assistive device

This listing does not apply to knee replacements that were unsuccessful years after surgery. You must be able to prove that your difficulty moving started soon after undergoing knee-replacement surgery. This includes a reasonable amount of time between your recovery and rehabilitation.

If you have experienced persistent knee pain and limited mobility years after surgery, you may be able to qualify for disability benefits under Section 1.18 (Abnormality of a major joint(s) in any extremity).

To meet or equal this listing, you must have:

• Chronic knee pain or stiffness
• Abnormal motion, instability, or immobility in the knee
• This abnormality recorded on a physical examination or imaging test
• An inability to walk without a wheelchair or another assistive device

Medical Vocational Allowance for Knee Problems

Most people with knee problems or those whose knee-replacement surgery was unsuccessful may not meet the criteria in the Blue Book. This can happen even if they are in severe pain and unable to work.

If this is the case, you may be able to qualify for a medical vocational allowance. The SSA will look at your medical records to determine how your knee problems post-surgery affect your ability to work and perform daily tasks. If you are unable to maintain gainful employment, you may be awarded benefits.

The SSA will also determine the type of work, if any, that you may be reasonably able to perform with your disability. This is known as your Residual Function Capacity (RFC). For instance, your RFC may show that you can only stand for a few hours or cannot climb stairs without help due to your knee problems.

Evidence Related to Knee-Replacement Surgery

Sufficient medical evidence of your knee-replacement surgery must be submitted to the SSA, such as your knee diagnoses, any X-ray, MRIs or CT scans, and notes taken before and after surgery. A licensed lawyer at our firm is prepared to help you gather this evidence for you from your treating doctor.

Your medical records should include the following:

• How long you can walk
• Whether you need an assistive device
• How long you can stand
• If you can bend, kneel or crouch
• Whether you can lift or carry heavy items
• If you can climb stairs without assistance

Additionally, the SSA will want information on the kinds of treatments you have undergone since knee-replacement surgery. This may include pain medication, physical therapy and/or rehabilitation and therapeutic injections. Be sure to let the SSA know if you have experienced any side effects as a result.

FAQs About Disability Benefits After Knee Replacement Surgery

Can knee replacement surgery qualify for Social Security disability benefits?

Yes, knee replacement surgery can qualify for Social Security disability benefits when ongoing pain, mobility limits, or surgical complications prevent sustained full-time work. The claim must show medical proof of functional restrictions, treatment history, recovery limitations, and the inability to perform past work or other available jobs.

What evidence helps prove a disability claim after knee replacement surgery?

Evidence for a knee replacement disability claim should include surgical records, imaging, physical therapy notes, pain documentation, assistive device use, and doctor-imposed work restrictions. Social Security evaluates whether those records prove lasting limitations. Sigman Janssen Injury & Disability Lawyers can help organize the evidence around the disability standard.

Can chronic pain after knee replacement support an SSDI claim?

Yes, chronic pain after knee replacement can support an SSDI claim when it limits walking, standing, sitting, lifting, or reliable attendance. The legal issue is whether the pain creates work-preclusive functional limitations. Medical records should document the severity, duration, treatment response, and impact on daily and work-related activities.

What if my knee replacement was caused by a workplace injury?

A knee replacement caused by a workplace injury can involve both workers’ compensation issues and a Social Security disability claim. Workers’ compensation focuses on work-related causation and benefits, while SSDI focuses on the ability to sustain employment. Sigman Janssen Injury & Disability Lawyers can review how the injury history affects the disability claim.

Can a car accident that leads to knee replacement create a legal claim?

Yes, a car accident that leads to knee replacement can create a personal injury claim if another party’s negligence caused the crash and resulting knee damage. The claim may involve medical expenses, lost income, pain, disability, and long-term limitations. Liability and damages must be supported by crash evidence and medical records.

How does Social Security evaluate walking and standing limits after knee replacement?

Social Security evaluates walking and standing limits by reviewing medical records, physical therapy progress, assistive device use, pain reports, and residual functional capacity. These limits matter when they prevent past work or other jobs. Sigman Janssen Injury & Disability Lawyers can help connect mobility restrictions to work limitations.

When should I appeal a denied disability claim after knee replacement surgery?

You should appeal a denied disability claim after knee replacement surgery when the denial overlooks medical evidence, underestimates pain, or fails to account for mobility restrictions. Disability appeals focus on proving functional limitations under Social Security rules. Sigman Janssen Injury & Disability Lawyers can identify evidence gaps and appeal issues.

Can long-term complications after knee replacement affect my ability to work?

Yes, long-term complications after knee replacement can affect the ability to work when they cause instability, infection, nerve pain, reduced range of motion, or the need for further surgery. Social Security considers whether those complications prevent sustained employment. Ongoing treatment records are important for proving the duration and severity of limitations.

Contact Us for Help with Your Disability Claim

Sigman Janssen Injury & Disability Lawyers is here to guide you through every step of the claims process. If your disability claim has already been denied, we are also here to handle your appeal. Our firm has helped advocate on behalf of many claimants over the years, fighting for the disability benefits they need.

The consultation we offer is free without any risk or obligation involved. There are no upfront fees involved. We only receive payment for our services if we help you obtain disability benefits.

Talk to a Lawyer Today. Ph: (920) 260-4528.

Related Resources

• Back Conditions That May Qualify for Disability Benefits
• Medical Conditions That Often Qualify for SSD Benefits
• Why Medical Records Are Critical to an SSDI Claim

Many accident victims are unsure if they need a lawyer to help them pursue compensation. They may think that their injuries are not that serious, or that it cannot be that hard to navigate the legal system.

However, a delay in calling a lawyer after a car accident could harm your potential claim.  You may do things or fail to do things that jeopardize your claim. You may miss or overlook certain deadlines or statutes of limitation.  If you make a mistake on your case, you may be unable to obtain the compensation you need.

At Sigman Janssen, we are ready to help you understand your legal options. The initial consultation is free of charge with no obligation involved. If you have a valid claim, there are zero upfront fees.

Millions Recovered. Proven Results. (920) 260-4528.

Why Do Accident Victims Delay Seeking Legal Help?

A car accident can be a stressful and overwhelming experience for everyone involved. Accident victims often grapple with many different concerns and uncertainties, such as how to get the right treatment and pay for medical bills while a claim is still pending. If you were the passenger in a car accident, you may be wondering whether you can file a claim against more than one driver for your injuries.

Even with these concerns, accident victims may still feel uneasy or intimidated about calling a lawyer for legal help. They may be worried about the costs involved or if they have a valid claim for compensation.

In car accidents that involve significant damages, the legal and insurance systems can be too complex for accident victims to handle on their own. There is often too much at stake to take your chances on receiving less compensation from the other party’s insurance company or your own insurance company.

What Are the Benefits of Hiring a Lawyer After a Car Accident?

There are legitimate reasons why an accident victim may decide to wait to call a lawyer. However, delaying seeking legal help could affect your ability to obtain compensation.

Having an experienced lawyer by your side after a car accident has its benefits. Calling a Green Bay car accident lawyer should be a top priority if any of the following applies to your situation:

• The car accident caused serious injuries or a fatality
• You have missed work due to the injuries you sustained
• It is unclear who is at fault for the car accident
• The car accident involved other drivers, passengers or pedestrians
• The police report does not accurately show what happened
• Your insurer or the other party’s insurance company is being difficult

Even if you think that your fender-bender may not require the help of a lawyer, it does not hurt to call for a consultation. Many lawyers, including those at our firm, offer a free initial consultation, so there is no risk to you.  Your first consultation will provide you with the opportunity to discuss your potential claim with a legal professional and get a good idea about the legal process.

Accident victims who retain legal representation are also protected by attorney-client privilege. This privilege protects communications between a client and his or her attorney. You can discuss any details or potential issues surrounding your claim in private and know that they will be kept confidential.

A lawyer at our firm is prepared to help conduct a thorough investigation into the events that led up to the car accident and your resulting injuries and gather the evidence to build a strong claim for compensation. This includes communicating and negotiating with the insurance company on your behalf to help you recover the maximum compensation. We do not get paid unless you get paid.

When May it Be Too Late to Call a Lawyer?

Accident victims who try to handle the claims process on their own may realize how challenging it can be. They may be confused by the paperwork they have been sent or they may have requested paperwork from the insurance company that refuses to cooperate. They may question if it is too late to call a lawyer.

The answer will depend on certain factors unique to your circumstances. For instance, when the car accident occurred. There are separate deadlines for filing insurance claims and legal claims.

In Wisconsin, the statute of limitations for a car accident lawsuit is three years from the date of the crash. If you file a lawsuit after this deadline passes, it may be dismissed by the court. However, there are also much shorter deadlines if the accident involved a state, municipal or other public entity vehicle or employee. Those deadlines can be as short as 120 days from the accident.  Do not rely on having three years to deal with your claim.

While three years seems sufficient, it takes a considerable amount of time to conduct an accident investigation, build a strong claim and negotiate for just and fair compensation. The amount of time in which to take legal action will be shortened if you initially waited to call a lawyer.

Get Answers to Your Legal Questions Today

If you are still unsure how a lawyer can help, reach out to our firm to learn how we may be able to assist you. We have decades of experience securing compensation for injured accident victims. We have obtained millions on behalf of our clients and are ready to help you recover the compensation you need.

Our lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, which means that you pay nothing up front. We only receive payment for our services if we help you obtain compensation through a settlement or verdict.

Call (920) 260-4528 for a Free Case Review.

In most cases, the answer is yes. You may be required to testify at your Social Security Disability (SSD) hearing. Your testimony will be crucial to your disability claim. You have a chance to explain how your medical condition has affected your ability to work and perform daily tasks before an administrative law judge. Not testifying could be the deciding factor in being denied benefits.

Our attorneys have helped represent many claimants over the years at their SSD hearings. If you have a valid claim, we are ready to answer any questions you may have and help you prepare to testify at your hearing. An initial consultation is free of charge and comes with no obligation to hire our firm.

Zero Upfront Fees. Ph: (920) 260-4528

Your Testimony Plays an Important Role

The ALJ’s final decision at an SSD hearing will be based on certain factors. This includes the medical evidence in your file, such as X-rays, imaging tests, lab panels, treatment notes and written statements from your doctor. Another factor is the testimony you provide at this hearing.

Your testimony can help the ALJ have a better understanding of your medical condition and how it affects your ability to function on a day-to-day basis and perform basic work activities, which may include past work. The ALJ will want to know if your condition has reduced your quality of life.

Additionally, testifying gives you a chance to clarify things in your medical file or previous statements made that seem inconsistent or vague. This includes explaining away any doubts the ALJ may have about your eligibility for disability.

You also have the chance to clarify inconsistencies that may be evident between your medical records and your statements. This includes any misgivings the judge may have about qualifying for disability.

Preparing to Testify at Your SSD Hearing

We know how overwhelmed and imitated claimants can get when asked to testify at their SSD hearing. For many, the whole experience can be nerve-wracking. This is where having an experienced attorney by your side can be beneficial. He or she can help you feel less anxious by preparing you for what to expect at your hearing. This includes putting together what you want to say to the ALJ.

Aside from your testimony, the ALJ will ask you different questions about your medical issues, treatment provided, previous work history, and anything else related to your condition. A lawyer can also help you practice answering these questions. Being prepared ahead of time could decrease your anxiety.

Review Everything That Has Been Submitted

Giving strong testimony requires knowing yourself and your limitations. Be sure to review everything that has been submitted to the ALJ assigned to your case. Look at your initial application and medical records, including observations and notes made by your treating doctor during your appointments.

If you have kept a journal, review every entry where you wrote about your pain and discomfort. Perhaps you included specific symptoms that have caused restrictions or limitations in your work and home life. You may have documented your medical care and treatments and if you had any adverse side effects.

Taking the time to review everything will not only help ensure that your file is up to date but also allow you to know what the ALJ is already aware of about your disability claim before your hearing is held.

Know Exactly What You Want to Say to the ALJ

Your testimony should provide more information than the ALJ can find in your medical records. Think about what it is you exactly want to say that will contribute to the ALJ’s understanding of your condition.

This is your opportunity to speak about your capabilities, as well as your limitations and struggles. If you face certain difficulties, be sure to give some examples that illustrate each of these difficulties. Being modest about your medical condition is often a mistake claimants make at their SSD hearings.

It is important that anything you say is honest and detailed. Refrain from exaggerating or downplaying your symptoms. Otherwise, the ALJ will likely question your credibility and not grant you benefits.

How to Testify at a Video or Telephone Hearing

In-person disability hearings have resumed in limited locations, but hearings by online video or telephone are still being conducted. These types of hearings allow you to testify from the comfort of your home or in a location near your home. However, they do not replace the personal nature of an in-person disability hearing.

Here are some tips for testifying at a video or telephone hearing:

• Locate a quiet area in your home with as few distractions as possible.
• Do not allow family or friends in the room. Plan on testifying on your own.
• Use a headset instead of your speakerphone to avoid feedback or echo.
• Keep it professional by not eating or drinking during the hearing.
• Wait for your turn to speak to avoid interruptions and keep your answers concise.
• Talk slowly and clearly so the ALJ can hear and understand what you are saying.

Request a Free Consultation to Get Started

A Green Bay Social Security Disability lawyer at our firm is ready to help you with your testimony and represent you at your hearing. We have decades of combined legal experience handling disability claims.

Our initial consultations are 100 percent free and confidential. There are no upfront costs for having us represent you. We only get paid at the end of the entire process if we help you obtain benefits.

Contact Us Today to Get Started. (920) 260-4528

Many types of physical impairments may qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Social Security Income (SSI). This includes crush injuries.

A crush injury to the hands and fingers can cause stiffness, decreased movement, a weakened grip and an inability to bend your fingers. This can make it hard to maintain substantially gainful employment and perform most work-related tasks.

If you have sustained a crush injury that prevents you from working, you may be able to obtain disability benefits from the Social Security Administration (SSA). Our lawyers have years of combined experience handling SSDI and SSI claims and know how the SSA Blue Book is used to evaluate impairments.

Reach out today to schedule a free initial consultation. There is no obligation after this meeting to hire our firm. If you have a valid claim and decide to move forward, there are no upfront fees involved.

Licensed. Local. Lawyers. Ph: (920) 215-4788.

What Are Crush Injuries and How Do They Happen?

Crush injuries occur when a part of the body, such as the arm, hand, leg or foot becomes trapped, pinched or jammed under or between objects. The pressure caused by a crush injury can significantly damage skin, muscles, nerves or bones depending on the amount of force.

These injuries are most common in the workplace, particularly in settings involving the hands and fingers. The most serious crush injuries happen when heavy machinery is used. A hand may get pinned between a moving or stationary object or get caught and pulled into operating equipment. While performing work tasks, an item may accidentally drop or fall on a hand, leading to a hand crushing injury.

Crush injuries can also happen in a car accident. When gripping the inside of the steering wheel, your hands could get caught around the wheel or get pinned between two parts of a vehicle during impact. This can cause a disabling crush-related injury that may result in amputation.

Obtaining Social Security Disability for a Crush Injury

The SSA does not grant benefits for all impairments. Your crush injury must be severe enough and meet the SSA’s definition of a disability, which means:

• You have an impairment that prevents you from working
• You are unable to adjust to other work due to your impairment
• Your impairment has lasted or is expected to last for at least one year

Detailed medical records can mean the difference between getting a claim approved or denied. The SSA will closely examine your medical records and the other documentation you submit to assess how your physical impairment affects your life and your ability to function. The likelihood of medical improvement is also considered by the SSA.

The SSA will look at how much you can lift and carry, how long you are able to sit, stand or walk, as well as how well you can reach for things using your hands and fingers. They will also analyze the amount of time you have been dealing with your impartment and the way you have sought treatment for your impairment.

This is why it is important to visit your treating doctor on a regular basis for your crush injury. Be sure to speak with your doctor about the level of pain you are experiencing and your limitations. Perhaps you are unable to move around, hold and operate things with your hands or have difficulties maintaining daily activities. Your doctor can document these issues in your file, order the proper clinical tests and refer you to a specialist if needed. Doing so will help you get the treatment you need to recover.

Advantages of Working with an Experienced Lawyer

Many disability claimants who work with a lawyer have an increased chance of being approved for benefits than those without legal counsel. An experienced lawyer can review your situation and determine if your crush injury qualifies for disability.

If you have a valid claim, he or she could help with:

• Collecting relevant medical evidence to prove how your impairment is disabling
• Establishing your inability to perform your past work tasks due to your impairment
• Validating that your impairment is so severe that you cannot engage in any substantial gainful activity (this is generally work that brings in over a certain amount of money per month.)

A lawyer could assist you with the paperwork and make sure everything is filed on time for your claim. He or she could also help prepare you for your disability hearing and represent you at your hearing if your claim has been denied. You are within your right to appeal a decision.

The Initial Consultation Comes at No Cost to You. Contact Us

If you are looking to obtain disability benefits for a crush injury, a licensed Appleton Social Security Disability lawyer at our firm is here to help. We could also guide you through the appeals process if you have already received a denial notice. The initial consultation we offer is free of charge.

Our firm also handles disability claims on a contingency-fee basis, which means we charge zero upfront fees for our services. We only receive payment at the end if we help you obtain the benefits you need.

Call (920) 215-4788 Anytime, Day or Night.

It is not uncommon for car crash victims to refuse medical treatment at the scene. They may be feeling some neck or back pain and not think it is serious. However, refusing medical treatment could be reason enough for the insurance company to pay out less in compensation than you need for your claim.

Our attorneys at Sigman Janssen recommend all of our clients seek immediate medical care after an accident. Doing so could help protect your health and help make your claim as strong as possible. If you have been injured in a car crash caused by another’s negligence, we are here to help.

The initial consultation we offer is free of charge and comes with no obligation to retain our services. There are zero upfront fees. We only get paid if we help you obtain a recovery.

Free Case Review 24/7. Ph: (920) 215-4788.

Why a Car Crash Victim May Refuse Medical Treatment

You would think that anyone injured in a car crash would seek medical care. However, it is surprising how many people do not. Perhaps they do not think they are injured or that their injuries are a big deal. Even some car crash victims who have sustained potentially serious head injuries may decide to go home and rest instead of calling 9-1-1 and going to the hospital, thinking that the pain will subside.

In other cases, a car crash victim may refuse medical treatment because he or she does not trust doctors or hospitals. Some victims may refuse out of fear of seeing a doctor and learning something is wrong with them. They would rather suffer than get an examination done. Certain people may have religious beliefs that prevent them from accepting blood transfusions or being treated by modern medicine.

While many of these reasons may be legitimate, the issue is that the insurance company may not see it that way. If you file a car crash claim and refuse to get medical treatment, you are making it easier for the insurance company to devalue or deny your claim.

Can Refusing Medical Treatment Affect My Car Crash Claim?

There are a lot of ways a refusal of treatment could damage your claim. You will likely receive a settlement offer for much less than your claim is worth, or the insurance company may deny your claim. The insurance company only cares about its best interest, which is to pay out as little as they possibly can. You do not want to give them any reason to invalidate your injuries.

Risk of Hidden Injuries

Refusing medical treatment may cause some injuries to remain hidden and undiagnosed. A delay in treatment after a car crash can worsen an existing injury or cause a new serious complication. Even seemingly minor injuries can become more serious and life-threatening without medical treatment.

Lengthier Recovery

Getting prompt medical care can help speed up your recovery. Otherwise, your recovery may take a lot longer than was necessary. It may even take longer for you to reach your maximum medical improvement or MMI. Most attorneys wait for victims to reach their MMI before attempting to settle car crash claims.

Refusing medical treatment also means having to wait to file your claim. You may not be able to recover the compensation you need to help cover your damages as soon as you may want.

Higher Damages

A lengthier recovery may increase your damages. For instance, you may incur more costly medical bills if your injury got worse and you needed extensive treatment. You may have missed more days from work while recovering from your injuries than you would have with prompt medical care.

Car crash claims with higher damages can be more difficult to handle than other types of claims. The other party and his or her insurance company will likely put up a bigger fight to avoid paying your damages. If the claim does not settle and you have to go to court, that is more money being spent.

Obligation to Mitigate Damages

When a person is injured by someone else’s negligence, the victim has a duty to mitigate his or her damages. For instance, you must take measures to get medical care and follow your doctor’s orders. Refusing medical treatment means failing to mitigate your damages.

Contact a Licensed Attorney for Help with Your Claim

If you have been injured in a car crash, an Oshkosh car accident attorney is ready to review your claim and discuss your rights. Our firm has decades of experience helping car crash victims and their families get the compensation to cover their damages. We have recovered millions of dollars for our clients.

Our initial consultations come at no cost, risk or obligation to you. We do not charge anything up front while we work a case and only get paid if we help you obtain compensation.

Proven Results. Call (920) 215-4788 Today.

Anyone who has had COVID-19 could potentially be diagnosed with Long COVID, regardless of the severity of your bout with the virus. Long COVID is a broad term for symptoms that continue long after the initial COVID-19 infection.

However, not all people diagnosed with Long COVID or post-COVID syndrome may be eligible for Social Security Disability. The symptoms you are experiencing must be serious enough to have substantially impacted your life and have limited your ability to work.

Below, we discuss some of the criteria for obtaining disability benefits for Long COVID. Our lawyers are well-versed in the SSA’s eligibility requirements and know what it takes to get a disability claim approved. If you have already received a denial notice, we are prepared to help file an appeal on your behalf. The initial consultation we offer is free of charge, so there is no risk to you.

Call (920) 268-0419 for Trusted Legal Help.

What is Long COVID and What Symptoms Does it Cause?

Long COVID is defined by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) as a condition that caused people to continue to experience COVID-19 symptoms for longer than usual after contracting the virus.

Symptoms of Long COVID can range from mild to severe, and there may be new or worsening symptoms lasting for weeks or months. These symptoms can happen whether one’s illness was serious or not.

Common symptoms of Long COVID include:

Other reported physical symptoms include a pins-and-needles feeling under the skin, fever, rash and a continued loss of taste or smell. People diagnosed with Long COVID may also experience damage to multiple organs, such as the heart, lungs, kidneys, skin and brain.

Long COVID has been reported to cause mental symptoms, such as unexplained mood changes, difficulty thinking or concentrating and memory issues. The extent and duration of Long COVID are still unknown.

Is Long COVID Being Treated as a Disability?

Since some people with Long COVID face debilitating symptoms, Long COVID can be considered a disability under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) as long as certain conditions are met. For instance, your symptoms must substantially limit you from performing one or more major life activities. These activities may include being able to walk, dress, speak, eat, or sleep.

If you have been diagnosed with Long COVID and cannot work because of the severity of your symptoms and limitations, you may be able to obtain disability benefits. The SSA has issued information on how disability claims that allege COVID-19 as a medical condition are being processed and handled.

Before the SSA will consider Long COVID as a disability, it must be established as a medically determinable impairment.

For instance, the SSA will require one of the following:

• A positive viral test for COVID (antibody tests not accepted)
• A diagnostic test consistent with COVID, such as a chest X-ray
• A COVID diagnosis with symptoms, such as a fever or cough

The impairment must also have lasted 12 months or is expected to last for no less than 12 months.

Blue Book Listing for Post-COVID Syndrome

After the SSA has confirmed that you are unable to work and have a medically determinable impairment, they will examine if your condition is serious enough to fit a Blue Book listing.

Currently, there is no listing for Long COVID or post-COVID syndrome. The SSA will need to compare your symptoms and limitations against the criteria of a listed impairment in the Blue Book. This means that the limitations you have been experienced must match the criteria under a listing.

For instance, say COVID-19 caused damage and scarring to your lungs, which resulted in you getting pulmonary fibrosis. However, the breathing tests you did do not fit the criteria for a respiratory disorder in the Blue Book. The SSA may still find that your condition equals the listing.

If you do not meet or equal any listing, the SSA will consider whether you have functional limitations – both physical and mental – due to COVID or from an impairment that has been made worse by COVID.

Obtaining Disability Benefits for Long COVID

Your treating doctor can help you figure out the tests you need or refer you to a specialist – such as a pulmonologist – to get lung function tests done.

Your treating doctor can also provide medical evidence for your disability claim. By talking to your doctor in-depth about your symptoms and limitations, he or she can get a better idea of how Long COVID has prevented you from working and completing work-related tasks.

Contact Us for Help with Your Disability Claim

If you have been diagnosed with Long COVID and are experiencing severe symptoms and limitations, you may be eligible for disability. Our Oshkosh-based Social Security Disability lawyers are ready to offer assistance whether you need help filing a disability claim for the first time or appealing a denial notice.

Our initial consultations cost nothing and come with no obligation to hire our firm. If you have a viable claim, we charge zero upfront fees for services and only receive payment if we help you get benefits.

Licensed. Local. Lawyers. (920) 268-0419.

Insurance companies often use several tactics to devalue or deny claims. One of these tactics may be to hire a private investigator to conduct surveillance of a car accident victim. An insurer will try to use any information the investigator uncovers against you. They are looking to protect their best interests and not yours.

Our auto accident attorneys in Green Bay discuss whether insurance companies can legally spy on you, limits on what a private investigator can do, as well as what you can do to protect yourself.

If you think your rights have been violated, we recommend contacting our firm to discuss your legal options. Schedule a free initial consultation today to get started. There is no risk or obligation involved.

Zero Upfront Fees. Ph: (920) 245-3400.

Can Insurance Companies Legally Spy on You?

Insurance companies do not always engage in surveillance. This is because hiring a private investigator to spy on you after an accident can be quite costly. However, it is not illegal as long as the investigator follows certain guidelines. A private investigator has the right to follow you at a distance in public places, take pictures of you in public areas, look at your social media profiles and examine your public records.

Insurance companies may say they hire private investigators to prevent fraudulent claims and protect their bottom line. Although fraud can and does happen, insurers also use surveillance to try and find a way to avoid paying out on legitimate claims. A private investigator is capable of uncovering a lot of information about you and using this information to discredit your injuries and how they affect your life.

When Would an Insurer Hire a Private Investigator?

Not all claims warrant hiring a private investigator. An insurer will likely not engage in surveillance right after you file a claim since they do not have enough information about the accident and the extent of your injuries to justify it. Insurance companies generally decide to hire private investigators to follow accident victims once a lawsuit has been filed, ideally before a deposition or before going to court.

Other times, insurers may hire private investigators because the case is more complex or has the potential to cost the insurer more money than they are willing to pay. For instance, say you suffered a serious, permanent injury and cannot work. You may be eligible for pain and suffering damages in addition to medical expenses and lost wages.

The insurance company may want help looking through your medical or financial background to find any reason to devalue your claim. They may also feel there is probable cause for surveillance to:

• Gather more information about you and the nature of your injuries
• Damage your credibility by showing you doing activities you say you are too injured to do
• Look for any sign that you are exaggerating your injuries or are injured at all

Once an insurance company has finished its investigation, they will do anything to devalue or deny your claim if the private investigator was able to gather sufficient evidence to use against you.

Are There Limits to What Private Investigators Can Do?

Although insurance companies can legally spy on you, there are limits to what private investigators can do. They can follow accident victims anywhere in public but are prohibited from:

A private investigator is also not allowed to intimidate, harass or otherwise make verbal or physical threats. If you feel you are in any danger, be sure to contact the local police. With the help of the police, you may be able to report the individual and put an end to any illegal surveillance on you.

A lawyer could also help you take legal action if the private investigator violated the law. He or she can protect your best interests and reach out to the insurance company or local police on your behalf.

Should I Be Concerned If I Am Under Surveillance?

Private investigators are trained to do their jobs without being seen. However, if you suspect that you are being followed, it is important to take precautions to protect yourself and your potential case. This includes avoiding doing physically demanding activities (i.e. running, swimming or cycling) out in public.

A private investigator will be looking to see if your actions support what you are saying in your claim.  For instance, say you suffered a lower back injury that makes it difficult to bend down and lift heavy items. While under surveillance, a private investigator may watch you running errands or at your place of work to see if you are bending your knees and lifting things normally without restraint.

Doing any type of physical activity too soon before being medically cleared by your doctor may make your injuries get worse. The insurance company may assume that you are not as seriously injured as you claim.

It is also important to avoid posting on your social media platforms. A photo or video showing you out with friends, on a trip or even smiling could be taken out of context and used against you by an insurer. Even discussing the accident and your claim could be fuel to challenge the severity of your injuries.

If you attend all of your doctor’s visits and follow his or her recommended treatment plan, a private investigator is less likely to uncover information that could be used to downplay your injuries.

Learn More About Your Rights in a Free Case Review

At Sigman Janssen, we have years of experience dealing with insurance companies and know how they think. Our attorneys are ready to fight for your rights after an accident and pursue fair and just compensation. We have successfully recovered millions in compensation for our clients.

An initial consultation is completely free with no obligation involved. We do not get paid unless you do.

Have Questions? Call (920) 245-3400.

When you apply for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplement Security Income (SSI) benefits, the Social Security Administration (SSA), your initial application may be denied. In fact, many applicants are denied at first and their applications are not approved until they attend a hearing.

To help you prepare for this hearing, we have compiled a list of some of the questions you may be asked about your situation.

Our firm has advocated on behalf of many disability claimants over the years. We know what the SSA is looking for and what it takes to get our clients the benefits they need. The initial consultation is free without any obligation to have us represent you. There are no fees unless we win.

Learn more by calling (920) 215-4788.

Questions Often Asked at Social Security Disability Hearings

There are various questions you may be asked about your medical condition, ability to work and other issues. You need to establish you meet the criteria for being awarded disability benefits.

For instance, you may be asked the following:

You will also get questions about your job history, such as:

You may also be questioned about your financial situation. This is particularly relevant if you have applied for SSI, which is meant for claimants with low income who may not have paid enough Social Security taxes to be covered.

You may need to answer the following questions:

How Do I Prepare for My Disability Hearing?

It is important to gather the names, addresses and contact details of all the places you have received medical care for your condition (i.e. emergency rooms, hospitals and doctor’s offices).

This includes medical documents that show proof that your condition is severe. If possible, obtain a written statement from your treating doctor(s) that contains specific information about your diagnosis. For instance, how your condition affects your ability to work and function on a day-to-day basis.

Be sure to also come prepared with the names, business addresses and phone numbers of your past employment supervisors. It helps to have this information written down instead of trying to remember everything. If it is possible, get statements from previous employers and family members that contain relevant details about how your condition impacts your life.

Sigman Janssen is Here to Help You Get Benefits

Applying for disability benefits can be overwhelming, which is why it helps to have someone on your side. An experienced Green Bay Social Security Disability lawyer is ready to prepare you for your disability interview. You can learn more about how we may be able to assist you in a free case review.

If you have a valid claim, there are zero upfront fees to retain our services. We only get paid if we are successful in helping you obtain the disability benefits you need.

Available 24/7 to take your call: (920) 215-4788.