[blindlaw] Life Insurance Coverage for the Blind

[Hyde, David W. (ESC)]

Not that AD&D is worth anything, but under the National Association of Insurance Commissioners recommendations in 1978, which many states passed over the next few years, you may not be denied coverage for either health or life insurance. This would include AD&D. What it might exclude dealing with blindness might be a rider stating that the loss of a prosthetic eye or eyes would not represent a lost requiring payment of either the principle or capital sum. 

-----Original Message-----
From: blindlaw [mailto:blindlaw-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of Russell J. Thomas via blindlaw
Sent: Tuesday, October 14, 2014 11:07 AM
To: 'Stewart, Christopher K'; 'Blind Law Mailing List'
Subject: Re: [blindlaw] Life Insurance Coverage for the Blind

What insurance carrier was involved?

Find an insurance agent that represents a well-established insurance company. Presumably, such a company will know the rules. If you had a condition that would disqualify you, blindness or not, there is nothing you can do.

In my case, I have had insurance through John Hancock for more than 30 years. The only reservation on my policies has been the denial of double indemnity for accidental death.


-----Original Message-----
From: blindlaw [mailto:blindlaw-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of Stewart, Christopher K via blindlaw
Sent: Saturday, October 11, 2014 1:29 PM
To: blindlaw
Subject: [blindlaw] Life Insurance Coverage for the Blind

Hello All,

I'm a law student, and I recently applied for life insurance. I received a denial of coverage letter stating that I was denied because of my blindness.
Specifically, they said I was denied because of "sickler's syndrome."

I don't have "sickler's syndrome." I may have "Stickler's Syndrome"
but have never gotten the genetic test. Regardless, Stickler's has no impact on life expectancy or mental capacity. The misspelling of my condition lets me know I was very likely denied because I am blind.

I realize that, if blindness is a result of some condition that significantly decreases life expectancy, a life insurance company may have a reason to deny coverage. However, in my case, all actuarial data indicates no impact.

I'm having trouble finding any sort of law or case that holds that a person can't be denied coverage simply because of blindness. I'd like to cite legal precedent in my appeals letter, and I'd appreciate any advice.

Best,
Chris


--
Chris K. Stewart
University of Kentucky College of Law, J.D. Candidate, 2016 Staff Editor, Kentucky Law Journal Co-President, American Constitution Society California Institute of the Arts, B.F.A. 2010
Ph:
(502)457-1757

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