How to Prove Disability for Skilled Trades and Manual Laborers

For skilled tradespeople and manual laborers, physical ability is not just an asset; it is the foundation of your livelihood. Whether you are an electrician, plumber, welder, or construction worker, your job demands strength, dexterity, and endurance. When an injury or illness compromises these abilities, securing long-term disability (LTD) benefits becomes essential for your financial stability. However, proving disability in these physically demanding roles requires a strategic approach to evidence.

Here are the key strategies for substantiating your claim:

• Gather Comprehensive Medical Evidence: Go beyond diagnosis to prove functional limitations.
• Document Specific Job Duties: Clearly outline the physical demands of your daily tasks.
• Obtain Personal and Witness Statements: Provide context on how your condition affects your work.
• Consult Vocational Experts: Use professional analysis to link your medical restrictions to your job requirements.

What Types of Documentation Are Necessary?

Medical records are the cornerstone of any disability claim, but for manual labor, generic notes are often insufficient. You need “functional” evidence. It is not enough for a doctor to say you have “back pain.” Your records must explicitly state how that pain limits your ability to lift, bend, climb, or stand.

We recommend requesting a Functional Capacity Evaluation (FCE). This is a series of physical tests that objectively measure your ability to perform work-related tasks, such as lifting specific weights or standing for prolonged periods. An FCE provides the concrete data insurance companies demand when evaluating claims for physical occupations.

How Can I Demonstrate That My Injury Prevents Me From Performing My Job?

Insurance adjusters often rely on generic job descriptions from the Department of Labor rather than looking at what you actually do. They might classify your job as “medium duty” when your specific role requires “heavy duty” lifting.

To bridge this gap, you must provide a detailed job duty breakdown. Do not just list your title. List the weight of the tools you carry, the height of the ladders you climb, the confined spaces you crawl into, and the repetitive motions you perform. If your doctor restricts you from lifting over 20 pounds, and you prove your job requires lifting 50 pounds regularly, you have a strong argument for disability.

The Role of Vocational Experts

Sometimes, medical evidence alone isn’t enough to convince an insurer. This is where a vocational expert becomes invaluable. These professionals analyze labor market data and your specific medical restrictions to provide an expert opinion on your employability.

For a skilled tradesperson, a vocational expert can explain why your skills may not transfer to a sedentary “desk job.” For example, if you are a master carpenter with a back injury, an insurer might argue you can work in a call center. A vocational expert can refute this by highlighting your lack of transferable skills, computer literacy, or education required for such a transition, strengthening your case for continued benefits.

Your Success Is Our Priority

At Bartolic Law, we understand that for manual laborers, your body is your business. When you can no longer work, you need a legal team that fights as hard as you do. We have a proven track record of helping skilled tradespeople navigate complex LTD appeals and secure the benefits they deserve.

Don’t let an insurance company define your limitations. Contact us today for a consultation and let us build the strong case you need to protect your future.