Qualifying for SSD for Whiplash
Whiplash is a relatively common condition–Mayo Clinic estimates there are about 3 million new cases of whiplash in the U.S. each year. Symptoms of this condition can include:
- Neck pain, which may worsen with movement
- Limited range of motion in the neck
- Headaches
- Dizziness
- Pain in the shoulders, upper back, or arms
- Numbness or tingling in the arms
Some people experience different or more serious symptoms.
Is Whiplash a Disability for SSD Purposes?
The Social Security Administration (SSA) defines “disability” as the inability to engage in substantial gainful activity (SGA) due to a medical condition or combination of conditions. The condition must also persist for at least one year.
One way to establish that you are disabled is to show that you meet or equal a listing in the Social Security Blue Book. The other is to show that your “residual functional capacity”–what you can still do despite your medical limitations–is too low to allow you to earn a living.
Most cases of whiplash resolve in a few weeks or months. That’s not long enough to qualify for Social Security disability (SSD) benefits. If whiplashsymptoms are long-term and cause disability under one of the tests described above, it may be possible to secure SSD benefits for whiplash. But, whiplash is a tricky condition that can be hard to prove, so it’s important to have the right assistance.
Social Security Blue Book
There is no Blue Book listing specifically for whiplash. That means you won’t be able to readily demonstrate disability by ticking off symptoms and limitations listed for your specific condition. However, you may be able to show that your condition and related symptoms and limitations equal another condition in the Musculoskeletal System listing.
Residual Functional Capacity
The process of determining whether you have sufficient residual functional capacity to engage in SGA is a bit more complicated and takes many factors not directly related to your medical condition into account. For example, the SSA will consider your past work experience, your level of education, whether past skills translate to other types of work you may still be able to do, and even your age.
Talk to an Experienced Disability Benefits Advocate about Your Whiplash Claim
If you are considering applying for SSD benefits for whiplash, give yourself the advantage of working with an experienced disability benefits advocate from the start. Most disability claims are initially denied, and that can add months or years to the process. To learn more about how we can help you submit the strongest possible application and documentation–or appeal–call us right now at 800-800-3332 or fill out our contact form here.
