Law Society of Ontario (LSO) Paralegal Practice Exam

What conditions apply for Non-Earner Benefits under SABS?

1. Must be employed for at least 12 months

2. Must demonstrate a total inability to carry on normal life

3. Available immediately without conditions

4. Paid only for the first week after an accident

The correct answer is: Must demonstrate a total inability to carry on normal life

Non-Earner Benefits under the Statutory Accident Benefits Schedule (SABS) are designed to assist individuals who are not employed or have not been employed in a way that contributes financially to their household after an accident. The condition that must be met to qualify for these benefits is the demonstration of a total inability to carry on the normal activities of daily life that they were accustomed to before the accident. This condition is crucial because the purpose of these benefits is to provide financial aid to those whose injuries prevent them from enjoying their pre-accident lifestyle, even if that lifestyle did not include earning income. The other conditions presented in the options do not accurately reflect the requirements for Non-Earner Benefits. There is no stipulation that requires an individual to have been employed for a specific duration prior to the accident, nor do the benefits become available immediately without any conditions. Furthermore, saying that they are paid only for the first week after an accident misrepresents the nature of these benefits, which can continue for a longer period, depending on the individual's situation and ongoing inability to engage in normal life activities.