Getting injured on a construction site can change your life overnight. If you have suffered a degloving injury, you already know it is not just about pain but how much you have lost. From limited hand use to deep emotional trauma, this kind of injury often ends a career in construction.
When you are trying to get Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits, it might feel like no one understands what you are going through. Your claim may be denied, not because you are okay, but because someone decided you can still work in another job.
It is more than skin-deep
One of the biggest reasons SSD claims get denied is because the decision-maker thinks you can still do “light” or “sedentary” work. However, switching from skilled labor to desk work is not always realistic, especially when a serious hand injury occurs. Below are ways that can help to make your case stronger:
- Include vocational testimony: A vocational expert can explain why your skills do not transfer easily to another field. They can demonstrate how your injury affects not only your movement but also your job options.
- Highlight non-physical limitations: Talk about more than just your hand. Degloving injuries often come with chronic pain, PTSD or depression. These factors matter and should be part of your claim.
- Be clear about everyday struggles: Describe how your injury affects your ability to dress, cook, write or even drive. Daily tasks show how much your life has changed, not just your work.
- Share honest medical reports: Make sure your doctors note your limitations. Vague notes like “healing well” can work against you if they do not mention what you still cannot do.
Together, these steps help paint a comprehensive picture of how your injury affects your ability to work and live daily. When you are already dealing with so much, having legal support can help ensure your rights are protected, offering you peace amid chaos.