In order to make sure that insurance benefits go where they are most needed, different policy limits have been created under the SABS for different classes of injury. Medical and rehabilitation benefits for a minor injury, for example, are limited to a maximum of $3,500. On the other hand, if a motor vehicle accident leads to a catastrophic impairment, the injured party is entitled to up to $1 million in rehab benefits.
The definition of a catastrophic impairment is quite complex, but essentially, to be considered catastrophic, injuries need to significantly impact the person’s ability to function, and the impairment must be permanent. Examples include blindness, paralysis and permanent brain damage.
See the full definition in section 3.1 of the SABS.