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Thursday, March 28, 2024

Customer alleges Cigna refused to grant disability benefits

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PINEVILLE — A worker is suing his employer and Cigna, alleging breach of contract by refusing to grant long-term disability benefits.

Frances Pertee filed a complaint April 26 in Wyoming Circuit Court against Cigna Insurance Group, Life Insurance Company of North America, and Shentel Management Company, alleging the defendants violated the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA).

According to the complaint, on Dec. 1, 2013, Pertee suffered seizures and thereafter was awarded temporary disability benefits pursuant to the Cigna policy she owned for employment disability insurance coverage. On June 20, 2014, Pertee says she was denied her long-term disability benefits claim as well as short-term disability benefits despite submitting medical records showing she was disabled. 

The plaintiff alleges the defendants failed to fulfill promises made with regards to the existing contract to provide long-term disability benefits to employees who have met the required conditions.

Pertee seeks trial by jury, long-term disability benefits, payment for pre-judgment interest, attorney fees, costs incurred, and all relief the court deems appropriate. She is represented by attorney Timothy Lupardus of Lupardus Law Office in Pineville. 

Wyoming Circuit Court Case number 17-C-67

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