Question

An insured involved in an accident that renders him permanently deaf, although he does not sustain any other major injuries. The insured is still able to perform his current job. To what extent will he receive Presumptive Disability benefits?

A. Full benefits for 2 years
B. No benefits
C. Full benefits
D. Partial benefits

Answer 1

Full presumptive disability benefits are typically only provided if the disability prevents the insured from working; since the insured can still perform their job, they may not be eligible for full benefits if the policy does not specifically cover hearing loss.

Step-by-step explanation:

The extent to which an insured individual who becomes permanently deaf will receive Presumptive Disability benefits depends on the specific terms of the disability insurance policy. Generally, for many insurance plans, hearing loss may not necessarily result in the payment of full disability benefits unless it prevents the insured from performing the duties of their occupation or substantially hinders their ability to work.

Since the insured is still able to perform his current job, it is likely that full presumptive disability benefits would not be provided unless his policy includes specific coverage for such a loss. The courts have often interpreted the definition of disability narrowly, which may limit the benefits for conditions like hearing loss if they can be mitigated with devices like hearing aids or cochlear implants.