Disability insurance provides income protection to the insured in the case they cannot work due to an accident or illness that happens off the job (workers comp covers on the job accidents). The insured must meet the definition of "total disability" or "partial disability" as it is stated in the policy in order to receive benefits.

What are the most common causes of disability?

Getting injured at work by freak accidents?  While this does happen the truth might surprise you.

• Illnesses like cancer, heart attack or diabetes cause the majority of long-term disabilities.
• Back pain, injuries, and arthritis are also significant causes.
• Most are not work-related, and therefore not covered by workers' compensation.
• Lifestyle choices and personal behavior that lead to obesity are becoming major contributing factors.