The probability is that an individual is far more likely to become disabled for an extended period of time rather than die. Because of modern medicine, the diseases that used to kill people now disable us. For the most part, if a person is disabled for six months, the probability is that the person will be disabled for 4-5 years or longer. Disability insurance replaces your income should you become disabled and unable to work.
Many people have some form of disability insurance through their employer.
The employers' policy may not be just what your need. In this case, you will probably want to supplement the employer's policy with an individual policy of your own. This period may vary. The premiums for a disability policy are based on age, sex, occupation, and income. Also. if your employer pays your disability insurance, you pay tax on that income.