Long Term Disability Benefit Basics
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| Long and Short Term Disability |
What Is Long-Term and Short-Term Disability Insurance?
Long Term Disability (LTD) insurance pays a portion of your income if you are disabled from working. To qualify initially for LTD benefits you must normally be unable to perform the essential duties of your own occupation. (Own occupation test) This test usually applies for two years.
To qualify beyond that time frame you must generally prove an inability to perform the essential duties of any occupation that you would be suited for by education, training or experience. (Any occupation test ) Time limits for when benefits are payable, applicable entitlement tests and the amount of benefits available are detailed in the policy so it is essential that these documents be reviewed carefully.
The obligation is always on you to prove you meet the definition of disability to qualify for benefits. If your insurer does not accept that you qualify for benefits they will deny your claim. There are strict time limits and actions that must be followed to assert your claim once denied. Failure to adhere to these time restraints could be fatal to your case.
If I cause an accident, can I still collect for my injuries?
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| Long Term Disability |
Regardless of fault, every person involved in a motor vehicle accident is entitled to Statutory Accident Benefits, which are provided by law under every auto insurance policy in Ontario.
If you miss work because of injuries sustained in the accident, you may be entitled to an income replacement benefit and if you’re not working, you may receive a non-earner benefit. If you’re the main caregiver for someone in your household, you may qualify for a caregiver benefit.
Additionally, you may be entitled to medical and rehabilitation benefits, which covers such care as physiotherapy, occupational therapy, and medication. Attendant care benefits offer compensation for some of the expense of an aide or attendant if required.
When you’re involved in an auto accident involving injury or property damage, you must report it to your insurer within seven days, regardless of who is at fault.
You should also be aware that even if you were charged, depending on the circumstances surrounding the accident, you may still be able to sue the other driver or perhaps the municipality for damages. It is always important to contact a lawyer after any motor vehicle collision.