The trucking industry is a huge part of the U.S. economy. Approximately 71% of all freight is still carried by big rigs — nearly 11 billion tons of freight in 2017 alone.
That same year, about 7.7 million people were employed in jobs related to the trucking industry, with 3.5 million of those being employed as truck drivers. Like any job, truck drivers can face sudden illness and injury. For truck drivers who rely on their jobs to provide for their families, a disabling injury or illness means serious financial trouble if they are unable to continue work.
Truckers Social Security disability is a difficult topic as eligibility for benefits depends on the size and kind of truck driven, how long the individual has been employed, the nature of the disability, and various other factors.
Approximately 60% of all Social Security disability claims are denied upon initial application, no matter what the applicant’s occupation and the nature of their disability. So it’s important to know that if you are a trucker over the age of 55 who has been injured or disabled as a result of driving a tractor trailer, you may be eligible for benefits even if you were denied the first time.
The attorneys at the Law Offices Of M. Stanley Whitehead are experienced in Social Security Disability denials and can help you determine if you are eligible for benefits and appeal the decision so you can get the benefits you deserve.
How Does Truckers Social Security Disability Work?
Many individuals over 55 face disabilities and injuries as a result of working with tractor trailers over the years.
So how does truckers Social Security Disability work? According to the Social Security Disability Resource Center, driving a tractor trailer is considered medium intensity work, making the occupation qualify for benefits. Unfortunately, smaller trucks like delivery trucks are considered light intensity.
Common Trucker Injuries
There are certain injuries and issues that are common in the trucking industry and may be eligible for Social Security Disability benefits. These common injuries are:
Neck and back injuries. Big rigs are not built with the neck and back in mind despite the driver being required to drive long distances. The seating in the cab itself may be the cause of neck and back injuries, but most commonly these injuries occur as a result of loading and unloading the truck.
Stress injuries. Sitting in the same position for hours on end regularly can cause issues such as carpal tunnel syndrome and joint injuries. These injuries may be severe and worsen the longer the driver continues to work for the company.
Falls. Whether it is climbing in or out of the truck cab, or working out of the trailer itself, falls are common in the trucking industry. Injuries as a result of a fall can render an individual unable to perform their job.
Houston Social Security Disability Denials Representation
M. Stanley Whitehead specializes on Social Security Disability denials cases. He has the experience and knowledge to help you pursue a trucker disability claim. Her clients come first, and she works diligently to get them the benefits they deserve.
If you are a trucker over 55 who is unable to work due to injuries or disabilities, call 713-993-7311 today to schedule a consultation. We are here to help you.
