Medical

Disability Lessons

Dirk May Denial, Help, Jobs, Law, Lawyers, Medical, Social Security, Social Security Disability, Supplemental Security Income


Social Security Disability Lesson # 105:

Sometimes a good attitude makes a big difference.

During a recent disability hearing the Administrative Law Judge asked the claimant questions about his medical records.

There were references to malingering (faking) and being a hypochondriac.

The person answered clearly, respectfully, and in a reasonable manner.

The Judge accepted his answers and granted him Social Security Disability benefits.

It was a good lesson.

Answer honestly.

Do not get angry.

Explain as best you can what was going on at the time.

It can make the difference between a good outcome, and a disaster.

Questions about your Social Security Disability case? Feel free to call Illinois Social Security Disability Attorney Dirk May at 309-827-4371.

September 1st: What does it Mean for Work Comp?

Dirk May Denial, Help, Insurance, Law, Medical, Settlements, Workers Compensation, Workers Compensation Commission


The new Illinois Workers’ Compensation law sets a deadline of September 1, 2011.

This means that for injuries on or after September 1, 2011 new rules are in effect.

The old law applies for injuries before September 1, 2011.

The date the claim is filed does not matter.

The value of injuries after September 1, 2011 will likely be reduced.

A new standard of determining value kicks in and one of the factors is the AMA guidelines. This takes into account some medical factors which may make it more difficult to get a higher settlement.

The full effect of the new work comp law will not be known for another year or two.

The psychological effect will most likely be lower settlement offers from Work Comp insurance companies.

Let me know what you see if you have a work injury after September 1, 2011. Call me, Illinois Workman’s Comp Lawyer, Dirk May at 309-827-4371.

Is Social Security Disability Over?

Dirk May Denial, Help, Law, Lawyers, Medical, Social Security, Social Security Disability, Supplemental Security Income


Some media are reporting that Social Security Disability will run out of money by 2017.

A variation of this has been reported for several years.

The sky may be falling, maybe not.

A interesting question is whether this has an effect on the way Social Security Judges rule in their disability cases.

Some judges treat a Social Security disability case like it is their own money.

However, most judges are like umpires. They call it according to the rules.

Of course, some umps are really bad.

I do not think media hype will affect individual disability cases to any great extent.

If you meet the requirements and have consistent medical treatment you can still win your disability case.

Just keep an eye on the politicians and what they do to try to help the situation.

Questions about your Social Security Disability? Feel free to call Illinois Social Security Disability Attorney Dirk May at 309-827-4371.