If an insured becomes permanently deaf from an accident but can still work, what extent of presumptive disability benefits will he receive?

When evaluating the scenario where an insured becomes permanently deaf from an accident but is still able to work, the concept of "presumptive disability" comes into play. Presumptive disability is a term used in disability insurance policies that refers to conditions under which the insurer assumes that the insured is totally and permanently disabled without the necessity of proving the extent of the disability in a particular way.

In cases of presumptive disabilities, which typically include conditions such as loss of sight, hearing, or limbs, the benefits are often provided at a full benefit level because the severity of these conditions is recognized as life-altering, regardless of the individual's ability to perform their job. Permanent deafness is classified as a presumptive disability, leading to the conclusion that the insured qualifies for full benefits.

This means that the insured, despite being able to work in a different capacity, will still receive the maximum level of benefits due to the nature of the disability itself. This is in line with the principle that certain severe disabilities fundamentally hinder one’s ability to function, even if they can still engage in work activities.

Other options, like no benefits or partial benefits, do not apply here because they do not recognize the severity of permanent deafness as meriting full disability benefits under