What Are the Top 10 Disabilities in Florida?

James D. Payer | May 4, 2024 | Personal Injury

A disability can impact you and your family in profound ways. Just last year, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimated that 1 in 4 adults in the United States had some type of disability. In Florida, you may be eligible to seek Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits to help you overcome some of the challenges these disabilities bring.

Our personal injury lawyer in Orlando will help you pursue compensation for the top 10 disabilities in Florida, which include:

1. Musculoskeletal Disorders

These disorders affect your muscles, joints, and spine. Chronic back pain and arthritis are typical examples that can severely limit mobility and your ability to perform work-related tasks. Other types are genetic, such as muscular dystrophy or congenital myopathy.

2. Cardiovascular Conditions

Heart disease and other cardiovascular conditions remain a leading cause of disability, including conditions like coronary artery disease, heart failure, or congenital heart defects. Symptoms such as chest pain and shortness of breath can make it difficult to live and work.

3. Mental Disorders

Mental health issues affect millions of Americans. Disorders such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia can be debilitating. Many sufferers struggle to maintain employment or live independently and perform basic tasks.

4. Neurological Disorders

Diseases like multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, and epilepsy are some of the most common neurological disorders. They lead to physical and cognitive impairments that affect all aspects of your life.

5. Respiratory Illnesses

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma, and cystic fibrosis can limit your ability to perform activities that require physical exertion, including basic daily activities such as running errands or performing household chores.

6. Cancer

Various forms of cancer can lead to significant physical limitations and time away from work for recovery. Cancer can have many causes, from genetics to toxic chemical exposure. You may have a personal injury case if your cancer is attributed to toxic chemicals in the workplace. 

7. Diabetes

Uncontrolled diabetes can cause complications such as neuropathy, vision loss, and kidney disease. This can impact your ability to live independently.

8. Immune System Disorders

Immune system disorders such as HIV/AIDS, lupus, and rheumatoid arthritis can lead to periods of incapacitation and chronic symptoms that impede daily functions. Many people living with these disorders struggle to manage their symptoms. 

9. Digestive Tract Problems

Disorders such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), Crohn’s disease, or chronic liver disease can cause severe pain and require frequent medical attention. This can lead to missed work.

10. Sensory Impairments

Various sensory impairments can cause vision and hearing loss, making communication and navigating typical work environments challenging.

How a Personal Injury Lawyer Can Help with SSDI Benefits

A personal injury lawyer in Orlando can help you pursue SSDI benefits for disabilities that impact your ability to live and work freely. 

While there are many reasons to hire an Orlando personal injury lawyer, our team will help with the following:

• Navigating the SSDI application process: A personal injury lawyer can help you gather the necessary medical documents, fill out the required forms accurately, and meet crucial deadlines.
• Building a solid case: A lawyer can assist with creating a strong case that highlights how your disability meets the Social Security Administration’s definition of a disability and aligns with listed medical criteria.
• Representation at hearings: A lawyer can represent you at reconsideration hearings if your initial claim is denied.
• Advising on related legal matters: A personal injury lawyer can also advise you on handling potential settlements or judgments related to your disability that might affect your eligibility for SSDI benefits.
• Contingency fee: Many personal injury lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, which means you only pay if you are awarded benefits.

If you or a loved one are facing a disability, schedule a free consultation today. 

Contact Our Orlando Personal Injury Law Firm For Help Today

If you’ve been injured in an accident in Orlando, Florida, and need legal help, contact our experienced personal injury lawyers at Payer Law Personal Injury Lawyers to schedule a free consultation today.

We proudly serve Orange County and its surrounding areas: