Claiming Non-Earner Benefits After a Car Accident

Last month, we covered two types of weekly benefits available through the statutory accident benefits regime: income replacement and caregiver benefits. A third, non-earner benefit may be available to anyone that is severely injured in a car accident, but does not meet the requirement to qualify for any other weekly accident benefit payments.

Who can make a claim for non-earner benefits?

Like other forms of weekly benefits, anyone making a claim for non-earner benefits must provide their insurer with completed forms detailing their injuries and prognosis, along with medical evidence from their treatment provider that confirms their condition. In order to qualify, claimants must be severely injured, to such an extent that they are unable to engage in the majority of their activities of daily life. In addition, they must either:

• Be otherwise ineligible for income replacement benefits;
• Be a student enrolled on a full-time basis; or
• Have graduated in the calendar year before the accident, but not yet secured employment in their field.

What do non-earner benefits cover?

Eligible claimants of non-earner benefits receive $185 per week. From this amount, their insurer will subtract any other benefits to which they are entitled under other insurance or disability plans, for example, any entitlements you may have under an employer’s group plan. For students and recent graduates that remain substantially disabled after 104 weeks, the benefit is increased to $320 per week, minus applicable deductions.

Toronto accident benefits lawyers for non-earner benefits and accident benefits claims

The personal injury lawyers at Jasmine Daya & Co. have decades of experience assisting accident victims with claims for statutory accident benefits. If you have been seriously injured in a car accident, we can assist at every step of your claim, and ensure you receive the accident benefits you are entitled to. If you have been told you are not eligible for income replacement or caregiver benefits, our lawyers can help you determine if you qualify for non-earner benefits.

We offer free consultations for new clients. Contact us online, or call our office at 416-967-9100 to make an appointment.