Yes, you may qualify for Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits, even if you lose your Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) due to injury. However, losing your CDL due to an injury does not automatically qualify you. You must meet the full set of criteria set by the Social Security Administration (SSA). For the last three decades, The Law Center for Social Security Disability has been dedicated to helping clients secure the benefits they rightfully deserve.
Qualifications for Applying for Social Security Disability Benefits
If you are struggling with health problems, the Department of Transportation (DOT) may take away your CDL. However, their determination that it is no longer safe for you to drive commercially does not automatically guarantee you SSD. The SSA evaluates your ability to do any job, not just drive. To qualify, you must meet the following criteria:
- Total Disablement:Your health condition must prevent you from doing any Substantial Gainful Activity.
- Broad Impact: Your limitations must restrict you from working, not just as a commercial driver, but in any other field.
- Duration of Injury: You must provide medical documentation that proves your disability is expected to last for at least 12 months.
- Work Credits: You must have paid into the SSD benefit system through past employment.
If you meet these qualifications, you can apply for SSD if you have lost your CDL. As with any application, there is a chance of getting rejected. Should you need help filing for benefits or dealing with a rejection, The Law Center for Social Security Disability is here to help.
Common Medical Conditions That Lose a CDL and Qualify for SSD
Commercial driving and long-haul trucking frequently lead to serious medical conditions. Between long hours of sitting, irregular sleep, and physical strain, resulting health issues that cause people to lose their CDL often qualify for the SSA’s criteria for disability benefits. Some of these include:
Cardiovascular Issues
Severe heart problems often end driving careers. Conditions like a past heart attack, advanced coronary artery disease, chronic angina, or recurrent blood clots may cause the loss of a CDL and qualify for an SSD claim if they severely limit physical exertion.
Neurological and Equilibrium Disorders
Uncontrolled epilepsy, severe neuropathy, or progressive diseases like Parkinson’s make driving highly dangerous. Inner ear disorders and chronic vertigo can compromise a person’s ability to work in any industry safely.
Back and Neck Problems
Decades behind the wheel can lead to degenerative disc disease and severe back injuries, leading to limited ability for movement.
If you have lost your CDL due to a severe injury that keeps you from performing any job, you likely qualify for SSD.
How to Apply for SSD After Losing Your CDL
Filing an SSD claim is a daunting task. Success relies on building a robust case of evidence to prove you can no longer work in any industry. Begin by gathering all your medical records that show your diagnoses and physical limitations. Your healthcare provider should provide a supporting document stating how you are limited and why you can no longer work.
The SSA allows you to apply for SSD online. If you are not comfortable applying online or worried about a denial, contact The Law Center for Social Security Disability. We have spent over thirty years helping clients successfully secure the benefits they deserve.