Caregiver and Attendant Care Benefits: What Support is Available?

After a serious accident, even the simplest daily tasks can become overwhelming. Whether it’s getting dressed, preparing meals, or caring for a dependent, the road to recovery often requires more than just medical treatment. It also calls for hands-on support. That’s where caregiver and attendant care benefits come in.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a motor vehicle accident in Ontario, understanding these benefits is crucial. They can ease both the physical and emotional burden of recovery and help ensure you’re not left to navigate it alone.

What Is Caregiver and Attendant Care Benefits?

Under Ontario’s Statutory Accident Benefits Schedule (SABS), individuals injured in motor vehicle accidents may be entitled to a range of benefits, regardless of who was at fault. Two of the most vital supports are:

• caregiver benefits: Designed for individuals who were the primary caregiver for a dependent (such as a child, elderly parent, or person with a disability) before the accident and can no longer provide that care due to their injuries.

• attendant care benefits: Reimburse the cost of hiring someone to assist with personal care tasks like bathing, dressing, eating, and mobility.

These benefits are part of Ontario’s no-fault insurance system and are meant to help accident victims maintain a basic quality of life during recovery.

Who Qualifies?

Eligibility depends on the severity of your injuries and the type of insurance coverage you have:

• Caregiver benefits are only available if you’ve suffered a catastrophic impairment or if you purchased optional coverage. You must have been living with and primarily responsible for the care of a dependent before the accident.

• Attendant care benefits are available for both non-catastrophic and catastrophic injuries, though the amount and duration of coverage differ.

To qualify for attendant care benefits, your need for care must be documented by a medical professional, typically through a Form 1 – Assessment of Attendant Care Needs, completed by an occupational therapist or nurse.

What Expenses Are Covered?

• Caregiver benefits: Up to $250 per week for the first dependent and $50 per week for each additional dependent.

• Attendant care benefits: 

  • Up to $3,000/month for non-catastrophic injuries (for up to 5 years or $65,000 combined with medical/rehab benefits).

  • Up to $6,000/month for catastrophic injuries (up to $1 million combined).

These benefits can cover:

• professional care services

• informal care by family members (if they suffer an economic loss to provide care)

• long-term care facility costs

Why These Benefits Matter

The aftermath of an accident involves more than just healing; it also means preserving dignity, independence, and family stability. These benefits:

• allow injured individuals to focus on recovery

• prevent caregiver burnout

• reduce financial strain on families

• ensure dependents continue receiving the care they need

Common Challenges in Accessing Benefits

Unfortunately, insurers don’t always make it easy. Claims can be denied or underpaid due to:

• disputes over what is “reasonable and necessary”

• lack of documentation

• misunderstanding of eligibility rules

That’s why it’s essential to work with an experienced accident compensation lawyer in Barrie who understands the nuances of Ontario’s accident benefits system.

How Littlejohn Barristers Can Help

At Littlejohn Barristers, we’ve helped countless Ontario residents secure the caregiver and attendant care benefits they deserve. We’ll:

• review your insurance policy and medical records

• help complete and submit the necessary forms

• advocate for your rights in disputes with insurers

• ensure you receive the compensation you’re entitled to

Don’t Navigate Recovery Alone

If you or a loved one is struggling after an accident, don’t wait. The sooner you act, the better your chances of securing the support you need.

Call Littlejohn Barristers today to speak with a trusted accident compensation lawyer in Barrie. We’re here to help you reclaim your life with the care and dignity you deserve. Contact us now!