Most Common Types of Disability Claims in Canada

In 2012, nearly 4 million Canadians reported a disability, including roughly 15 percent of Ontarians, according to Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC). Fortunately, disabled persons can file a claim for either long- or short-term disability as long as they meet their insurance qualifications.

Common Types of Disability

The ESDC reports that the 10 most common types of disabilities are related to the following conditions.

• pain (9.7 percent).
• flexibility (7.6 percent).
• mobility (7.2 percent).
• mental/psychological (3.9 percent).
• dexterity (3.5 percent).
• hearing (3.2 percent).
• seeing (2.7 percent).
• learning (2.3 percent).
• memory (2.3 percent).
• and, developmental (0.6 percent).

Disability statistics from ESDC show that women are more likely than men to report the top three types of disabilities (pain, flexibility and mobility). The ESDC also reports that claimants age 15 to 24 are more apt to report mental/psychological disabilities, learning disabilities and pain-related issues, while those aged 45 to 64 more commonly reported pain, flexibility and mobility issues.

Getting the Benefits You Need if Disabled

Some of the types of disability claims you may be able to file include.

• back injuries (back strains, broken vertebra, ruptured discs, etc.).
• diabetes.
• arthritis and fibromyalgia.
• infection and parasitic diseases.
• heart conditions.
• mental health conditions such as depression, bipolar disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder.
• cancer.
• seizures and other neurological disorders.
• lupus and multiple sclerosis.
• musculoskeletal disorders.
• and, acquired brain injuries.

Generally, any type of disability that affects your ability to work may qualify you to file a disability claim. However, the specific requirements depend upon the details of your insurance policy. You can speak to a disability lawyer to review your plan and determine whether or not you quality and what amount of benefits to which you should be entitled.

Ways to Increase Success of Your Disability Claim

If you are beginning the process of filing a disability, discuss your case with a disability lawyer. Your lawyer will be able to help you through the legal process and ensure your claim is handled efficiently and effectively.

Other things you’ll want to do to increase the likelihood of getting your claim approved include the following.

• keep all of your medical records and doctors’ reports.
• know your policy, your rights and your responsibilities.
• attend all your appointments and adhere to your treatment plan.
• keep an injury journal to note your symptoms, pain levels and treatment efficacy.
• be completely honest with your doctor about your symptoms and don’t undermine or exaggerate them (note that many insurance companies will hire private investigators for surveillance to ensure your condition is legitimate).
• provide your lawyer with any requested information as quickly as possible to avoid delays.

Preszler Injury Lawyers Disability Lawyers Can Assist with Your Claim

If you are disabled, Preszler Injury Lawyers lawyers in Ontario can help you file a claim and pursue disability benefits. Contact us today at 1-800-JUSTICE® for a free, no-obligation initial legal consultation.