{"id":30668,"date":"2025-09-16T13:10:44","date_gmt":"2025-09-16T17:10:44","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/silver.rbcinsurance.com\/en-ca\/?p=30668"},"modified":"2026-02-03T15:38:30","modified_gmt":"2026-02-03T20:38:30","slug":"life-insurance-vs-accidental-death-coverage","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/silver.rbcinsurance.com\/en-ca\/advice-learning\/life-insurance\/life-insurance-vs-accidental-death-coverage","title":{"rendered":"Difference Between Life Insurance and Accidental Death Coverage"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<div class=\"wp-block-rbc-template-selector templateSelector template__article articleSingle\" data-template=\"article\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group articleSingle__container tabListStickyWrapper is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group articleSingle__container__hero is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group articleSingle__container__hero__inner is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<span class=\"rbc-yoast-breadcrum-span\"><span><a href=\"https:\/\/silver.rbcinsurance.com\/en-ca\/\">Home<\/a><\/span><\/span>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group articleSingle__featuredImage__group is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group articleSingle__title__group is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\"><h1 class=\"wp-block-post-title\">Difference Between Life Insurance and Accidental Death Coverage<\/h1>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group articleSingle__date__group is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\"><div class=\"wp-block-post-date\"><time datetime=\"2025-09-16T13:10:44-04:00\">September 16, 2025<\/time><\/div>\n\n\n<span class=\"wp-block-rbc-html-element articleSingle__readTime\">11 Min Read<\/span>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group articleSingle__author__group is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/silver.rbcinsurance.com\/en-ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2021\/06\/Avatar.webp?quality=80&w=128&h=128&crop=1\" alt=\"Corrina Allen\">\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group articleSingle__author__details is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<span class=\"wp-block-rbc-html-element articleSingle__author__name\">Corrina Allen<\/span>\n\n\n\n<span class=\"wp-block-rbc-html-element articleSingle__author__designation\"><\/span>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<figure class=\"articleSingle__featuredImage wp-block-post-featured-image\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/silver.rbcinsurance.com\/en-ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2021\/06\/life-insurance-vs-accidental-death-coverage.webp?quality=80&amp;w=1024\" class=\"attachment-post-thumbnail size-post-thumbnail wp-post-image\" alt=\"A family gathered together protected by Life Insurance\" style=\"object-fit:cover;\" srcset=\"https:\/\/silver.rbcinsurance.com\/en-ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2021\/06\/life-insurance-vs-accidental-death-coverage.webp 1074w, https:\/\/silver.rbcinsurance.com\/en-ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2021\/06\/life-insurance-vs-accidental-death-coverage.webp?resize=300,200 300w, https:\/\/silver.rbcinsurance.com\/en-ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2021\/06\/life-insurance-vs-accidental-death-coverage.webp?resize=768,512 768w, https:\/\/silver.rbcinsurance.com\/en-ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2021\/06\/life-insurance-vs-accidental-death-coverage.webp?resize=1024,683 1024w, https:\/\/silver.rbcinsurance.com\/en-ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2021\/06\/life-insurance-vs-accidental-death-coverage.webp?resize=412,275 412w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group articleSingle__container__main is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group articleSingle__container__page__nav is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\t\t<div class=\"socials-block\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<p class=\"socials-block-title\">\n\t\t\tShare this article\t\t<\/p>\n\t\t<div class=\"social-links mob-mar-b-hlf mob-mar-t-hlf\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<a class=\"social-button-wrapper sharing-custom sharing-email\" href=\"mailto:?subject=Difference Between Life Insurance and Accidental Death Coverage &#038;body=Hi, I thought you might be interested in this article from RBC Insurance: https:\/\/silver.rbcinsurance.com\/en-ca\/advice-learning\/life-insurance\/life-insurance-vs-accidental-death-coverage\">\n\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/silver.rbcinsurance.com\/en-ca\/wp-content\/plugins\/rbc-blocks\/assets\/img\/icons\/icon-email.svg\"\n\t\t\t\talt=\"envelope icon\">\n\t\t\t\t<span>\n\t\t\t\tEmail\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t<div class=\"social-button-wrapper sharing-copy-wrapper\">\n\t\t\t<button class=\"sharing-custom sharing-copy\" data-url=\"https:\/\/silver.rbcinsurance.com\/en-ca\/advice-learning\/life-insurance\/life-insurance-vs-accidental-death-coverage\">\n\t\t\t<img\n\t\t\t\tsrc=\"https:\/\/silver.rbcinsurance.com\/en-ca\/wp-content\/plugins\/rbc-blocks\/assets\/img\/icons\/icon-related.svg\"\n\t\t\t\talt=\"copy icon\">\n\t\t\t<span id=\"sharing-copyUrl-Label\">\n\t\t\t\tCopy URL\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t<\/button>\n\t\t\t<input type=\"text\" class=\"sharing-copy-text\" aria-labelledby=\"sharing-copyUrl-Label\">\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n  \t\t<\/div>\t\n\t\t\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-rbc-tabs-list tabsList\" data-switch=\"lgBp\" data-target-heading=\"h2\"><p class=\"tabsList__heading\">On this page<\/p><div class=\"tabsList__wrapper\"><button class=\"selectDropdown__button\" aria-haspopup=\"listbox\" aria-expanded=\"false\"><span class=\"selectDropdown__title\">Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Accidental Death Coverage vs Life Insurance<\/span><span class=\"selectDropdown__chevron\"><\/span><\/button><ul class=\"tabsList__items selectDropdown__list\"><li class=\"selectDropdown__list__item tabsList__item selected\"><a href=\"#h-frequently-asked-questions-faqs-about-accidental-death-coverage-vs-life-insurance\">Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Accidental Death Coverage vs Life Insurance<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group articleSingle__content__main tabListHeadings is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<section class=\"wp-block-rbc-section-block  pos-rel\" style=\"border-radius:0px\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-rbc-section-inner-block  section-inner \" style=\"border-radius:0x\">\n<p>You want to know your loved ones are financially secure in the event of your death, but what kind of insurance will best protect them? There are two broad categories of insurance plans that offer Canadians end of life protection: life insurance and accidental death insurance. Often, these products are thought of interchangeably, but each comes with distinct features and benefits designed to suit specific needs.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It\u2019s important to understand the difference so that you can choose the policy that\u2019s the right fit. To help you make the best decision for your family\u2019s future, we\u2019ve outlined the differences between life insurance and accidental death coverage and how they can provide you with the peace of mind you and your loved ones deserve.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-key-takeaways\"><a><\/a>Key takeaways<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list list-core-block second-level-inherit third-level-inherit is-style-blue-disc\">\n<li>Both life insurance and accidental death insurance helps provide peace of mind by ensuring that your family will be looked after financially in the event of your death.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>These two types of insurance products are often viewed as interchangeable when in fact, they\u2019re different in important ways that policy holders need to understand.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Life insurance pays out a death benefit when death occurs for a variety of reasons (e.g. accident, illness, or old age) so long as the policyholder dies while their policy is still active.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Accidental death insurance pays out benefits only if the policyholder dies in an accident or dies within one within one year from injuries caused by an accident only.&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Accidental death insurance is often more affordable and charges lower premiums due to its limited scope of coverage.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-what-is-life-insurance\"><a><\/a>What is life insurance?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Let\u2019s start with an overview of life insurance and why it might be the right option for long-term coverage and financial security for your loved ones. Life insurance provides a one-time, tax-free payment in the event of your death. However, life insurance products aren\u2019t one-size-fits-all solutions \u2014 they\u2019re tailored to suit your budget and your goals.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-types-of-life-insurance\"><a><\/a>Types of life insurance<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Canadians have access to both term life insurance plans and permanent life insurance. Here\u2019s how they differ:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list list-core-block second-level-inherit third-level-inherit is-style-blue-disc\">\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/silver.rbcinsurance.com\/en-ca\/life-insurance\/term-life-insurance\/\" data-dig-id=\"LP-LifeInsurance-30668-960f92db\" data-dig-category=\"LP-LifeInsurance\" data-dig-action=\"link click\" data-dig-label=\"Term life insurance\" class=\"rbc-link-format\">Term life insurance<\/a>:&nbsp; <\/strong>This is a type of life insurance that provides you with coverage over a defined period decided upon when you purchase your plan. Term life insurance policies can range from 10 to 40 years, depending on your needs. The beneficiaries named in the policy (your family and loved ones) receive a death benefit payout if the policyholder dies within the term protected by the policy\u2019s coverage.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list list-core-block second-level-inherit third-level-inherit is-style-blue-disc\">\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/silver.rbcinsurance.com\/en-ca\/life-insurance\/whole-life-insurance\/\" data-dig-id=\"LP-LifeInsurance-30668-cdbb638b\" data-dig-category=\"LP-LifeInsurance\" data-dig-action=\"link click\" data-dig-label=\"Permanent life insurance\" class=\"rbc-link-format\">Permanent life insurance<\/a>: <\/strong>Permanent life insurance plans also offer death benefit payouts to beneficiaries, but they are not limited to a specific term. One way to think about the difference is that term life insurance policies offer a death benefit <em>if<\/em> you die (during the insured term) while permanent life plans provide death benefit payouts <em>when<\/em> you die, regardless of when that occurs. While premiums are typically higher on permanent life insurance plans, some may offer a stream of money that accumulates in the policy as you pay your premiums.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-key-features-of-life-insurance-coverage\"><a><\/a>Key features of life insurance coverage<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The must-know basics behind life insurance and the key features that this kind of coverage offers are:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list list-core-block second-level-inherit third-level-inherit is-style-blue-disc\">\n<li><strong>Coverage is comprehensive<\/strong>: Your life insurance plan covers death due to illness, natural causes, or accidents (limitations may apply).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Policies are customizable<\/strong>: Talking to your advisor will help you tailor a plan to fit your specific needs. For example, you may wish to include riders that cover you in the case of critical illness or disability.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Certain policies offer a cash value component:<\/strong> Some permanent life insurance policies build cash value over time and give you the option to either withdraw funds from this component of your plan or borrow against its value.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Benefits are typically tax-free<\/strong>: In most cases, death benefit payouts are not subject to income tax.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-what-is-accidental-death-coverage\"><a><\/a>What is accidental death coverage?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Accidental death insurance \u2014 also referred to as <a href=\"https:\/\/www.worldprotect.com\/life-insurance\/personal-accident-insurance.html\" data-dig-id=\"LP-LifeInsurance-30668-1c76f0ef\" data-dig-label=\"Personal Accident insurance\" data-dig-action=\"link click\" data-dig-category=\"LP-LifeInsurance\" class=\"rbc-link-format\">Personal Accident insurance<\/a> \u2014 is a type of coverage that provides your beneficiaries with a payout in the event that you die from an accident. Coverage is limited to these specific situations but is also more affordable than a life insurance policy. For RBC clients between the ages of 18 and 69, <strong>acceptance into a Personal Accident insurance policy is guaranteed.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-key-features-of-accidental-death-coverage\"><a><\/a>Key features of accidental death coverage<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Here\u2019s what you need to know about accidental death coverage:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list list-core-block second-level-inherit third-level-inherit is-style-blue-disc\">\n<li><strong>Coverage is accident-specific<\/strong>: Beneficiaries will only receive a death benefit payout in the event of accidental death or if you die within one year from injuries caused by an accident only.&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>This type of insurance is often purchased as supplemental coverage<\/strong>: Accidental death policies are often purchased as a rider to a life insurance policy, but can be purchased as a standalone plan.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Plans offer lower premiums<\/strong>: Because the coverage offered by accidental death insurance is more limited and only applicable to specific situations, it\u2019s usually more affordable than life insurance.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Policies do not come with a cash value component<\/strong>: Accidental death policies have no cash value component and are not a financial tool that helps build savings or contributes to your investment portfolio.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-key-differences-between-life-insurance-and-accidental-death-coverage\"><a><\/a>Key differences between life insurance and accidental death coverage<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Here\u2019s the most important differences between life insurance and accidental death coverage at a glance:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-rbc-basic-tables basicTables\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-rbc-basic-table basicTable\"><div class=\"basicTable__sliderNav\" role=\"navigation\" aria-label=\"Table navigation\"><div class=\"basicTable__navArrow basicTable__prevArrow\" aria-label=\"Previous\"><\/div><div class=\"basicTable__sliderDots\" role=\"tablist\" aria-label=\"Table pagination\"><\/div><div class=\"basicTable__navArrow basicTable__nextArrow\" aria-label=\"Next\"><\/div><\/div><table class=\"basicTable__table\" role=\"table\" aria-label=\"Comparison table\">\n<thead class=\"wp-block-rbc-basic-table-head basicTableHead\" role=\"rowgroup\" aria-label=\"Table head\">\n<tr class=\"wp-block-rbc-basic-table-row basicTableRow\" role=\"row\">\n<th class=\"wp-block-rbc-basic-table-header basicTableHeader\" role=\"columnheader\" scope=\"col\">\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-feature\">Feature<\/h4>\n<\/th>\n\n\n\n<th class=\"wp-block-rbc-basic-table-header basicTableHeader\" role=\"columnheader\" scope=\"col\">\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-life-insurance\">Life Insurance<\/h4>\n<\/th>\n\n\n\n<th class=\"wp-block-rbc-basic-table-header basicTableHeader\" role=\"columnheader\" scope=\"col\">\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-accidental-death-coverage\">Accidental Death Coverage<\/h4>\n<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n\n\n\n<tbody class=\"wp-block-rbc-basic-table-body basicTableBody\" role=\"rowgroup\" aria-label=\"Table body\">\n<tr class=\"wp-block-rbc-basic-table-row basicTableRow\" role=\"row\">\n<td class=\"wp-block-rbc-basic-table-data basicTableData\" role=\"cell\" aria-label=\"Table cell\">\n<p>Scope of Coverage<\/p>\n<\/td>\n\n\n\n<td class=\"wp-block-rbc-basic-table-data basicTableData\" role=\"cell\" aria-label=\"Table cell\">\n<p>Death due to any cause, including illness, natural causes, or accidents, is covered, although some exclusions may apply.<\/p>\n<\/td>\n\n\n\n<td class=\"wp-block-rbc-basic-table-data basicTableData\" role=\"cell\" aria-label=\"Table cell\">\n<p>Only in the event of accidental death or if you die within one year from injuries caused by an accident only.<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n\n\n<tr class=\"wp-block-rbc-basic-table-row basicTableRow\" role=\"row\">\n<td class=\"wp-block-rbc-basic-table-data basicTableData\" role=\"cell\" aria-label=\"Table cell\">\n<p>Premiums<\/p>\n<\/td>\n\n\n\n<td class=\"wp-block-rbc-basic-table-data basicTableData\" role=\"cell\" aria-label=\"Table cell\">\n<p>The comprehensive coverage offered by these plans means that premiums are higher.<\/p>\n<\/td>\n\n\n\n<td class=\"wp-block-rbc-basic-table-data basicTableData\" role=\"cell\" aria-label=\"Table cell\">\n<p>Premiums are lower due to the limited scope of coverage.<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n\n\n<tr class=\"wp-block-rbc-basic-table-row basicTableRow\" role=\"row\">\n<td class=\"wp-block-rbc-basic-table-data basicTableData\" role=\"cell\" aria-label=\"Table cell\">\n<p>Cash Value<\/p>\n<\/td>\n\n\n\n<td class=\"wp-block-rbc-basic-table-data basicTableData\" role=\"cell\" aria-label=\"Table cell\">\n<p>Some policies have components that build cash value over time.<\/p>\n<\/td>\n\n\n\n<td class=\"wp-block-rbc-basic-table-data basicTableData\" role=\"cell\" aria-label=\"Table cell\">\n<p>These plans have no cash value component.<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n\n\n<tr class=\"wp-block-rbc-basic-table-row basicTableRow\" role=\"row\">\n<td class=\"wp-block-rbc-basic-table-data basicTableData\" role=\"cell\" aria-label=\"Table cell\">\n<p>Flexibility<\/p>\n<\/td>\n\n\n\n<td class=\"wp-block-rbc-basic-table-data basicTableData\" role=\"cell\" aria-label=\"Table cell\">\n<p>Policies can be tailored to the individual to include riders that offer additional coverage. Policies can also range in terms of length.<\/p>\n<\/td>\n\n\n\n<td class=\"wp-block-rbc-basic-table-data basicTableData\" role=\"cell\" aria-label=\"Table cell\">\n<p>Policies only cover accidental death and injury.<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n\n\n<tr class=\"wp-block-rbc-basic-table-row basicTableRow\" role=\"row\">\n<td class=\"wp-block-rbc-basic-table-data basicTableData\" role=\"cell\" aria-label=\"Table cell\">\n<p>Who Can be Covered<\/p>\n<\/td>\n\n\n\n<td class=\"wp-block-rbc-basic-table-data basicTableData\" role=\"cell\" aria-label=\"Table cell\">\n<p>Coverage available for Canadian residents aged 18 to 70. Some policies require a medical exam for acceptance.<\/p>\n<\/td>\n\n\n\n<td class=\"wp-block-rbc-basic-table-data basicTableData\" role=\"cell\" aria-label=\"Table cell\">\n<p>Coverage typically available for Canadian residents aged 18 to 69. Medical exam usually not required for acceptance.<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n\n\n<tr class=\"wp-block-rbc-basic-table-row basicTableRow\" role=\"row\">\n<td class=\"wp-block-rbc-basic-table-data basicTableData\" role=\"cell\" aria-label=\"Table cell\">\n<p>Death Benefit Payouts<\/p>\n<\/td>\n\n\n\n<td class=\"wp-block-rbc-basic-table-data basicTableData\" role=\"cell\" aria-label=\"Table cell\">\n<p>Policies offer a guaranteed payout upon death (subject to some exclusions).<\/p>\n<\/td>\n\n\n\n<td class=\"wp-block-rbc-basic-table-data basicTableData\" role=\"cell\" aria-label=\"Table cell\">\n<p>Payouts are only made in the case of qualifying accidents.<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-why-get-life-insurance\"><a><\/a>Why get life insurance?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>With an active term life or permanent life insurance policy, you can be assured that your loved ones will have a financial safety net when you die. These policies and plans are designed to provide short- or long-term security and can, depending on the type of policy, also contribute to wealth building. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Here are some of the reasons why life insurance could be the right kind of coverage for you and your family:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list list-core-block second-level-inherit third-level-inherit is-style-blue-disc\">\n<li><strong>You\u2019re a working parent with children or dependents:<\/strong> For parents and guardians with children or other financial dependents living at home, life insurance coverage provides ease of mind, knowing that if something were to happen to you, your beneficiaries will be able to cover unexpected costs like additional childcare, household bills, or funeral expenses.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list list-core-block second-level-inherit third-level-inherit is-style-blue-disc\">\n<li><strong>You have sizable debts like a mortgage or student loans:<\/strong> If you\u2019re making regular payments on loans, lines of credit, or a mortgage, life insurance will allow your spouse or family to continue paying off those debts without worry.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list list-core-block second-level-inherit third-level-inherit is-style-blue-disc\">\n<li><strong>You\u2019re saving to pay for your child\u2019s education:<\/strong> One financial strategy for funding a child\u2019s education beyond a RESP is to dedicate the cash value component of a permanent life policy to university or college tuition. This can be accomplished by purchasing a plan for your child and transferring it to them when they come of age.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list list-core-block second-level-inherit third-level-inherit is-style-blue-disc\">\n<li><strong>You\u2019re working to protect your assets and pass them on to your loved ones:<\/strong> You want your loved ones to be able to keep the things we worked hard to give them \u2014 like the family home or cottage on the lake. Your life insurance death benefit supports your beneficiaries financially so that they can afford to pay property taxes or other fees on these assets.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>You want your family to receive a death benefit payout that won\u2019t be subject to tax: <\/strong>Life insurance death benefit payouts, including the cash value component of your policy are, for the most part, not taxed when they are passed on to your beneficiaries following your death.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-why-get-accidental-death-coverage\"><a><\/a>Why get accidental death coverage?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Accidental death coverage offers a more affordable way to protect your family if you experience an accident resulting in death. It could be the right policy option for you and your loved ones if:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list list-core-block second-level-inherit third-level-inherit is-style-blue-disc\">\n<li><strong>You\u2019re someone who works in a high-risk industry: <\/strong>Certain occupations like construction, transportation, and manufacturing can put workers at higher risk of accidents or fatalities.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Your hobbies involve a higher chance of accident or injury: <\/strong>Rock climbing, mountain biking or jet skiing typically involve more risk than practicing yoga. People who love high-octane activities may want to consider accidental death insurance to protect themselves. However, it\u2019s important to note that it may not cover <em>every<\/em> high-risk hobby. Reckless activities or activities that break the law are excluded. For example, while low altitude rock climbing might be covered by your policy, free climbing in the Alps without ropes may not.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list list-core-block second-level-inherit third-level-inherit is-style-blue-disc\">\n<li><strong>You\u2019re a young adult who wants low-cost insurance coverage:<\/strong> If life insurance is beyond your budget as a young adult, a more affordable AD&amp;D policy could be the right option for you at this stage of your life.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list list-core-block second-level-inherit third-level-inherit is-style-blue-disc\">\n<li><strong>You already have a life insurance policy, but you want additional coverage:<\/strong> Some life insurance policy holders opt for an additional accidental death rider that provides an extra layer of security in the face of an unexpected accident.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>You don\u2019t qualify for life insurance:<\/strong> As accidental death insurance typically does not require a medical exam, it can be a good option for Canadians who cannot be approved for traditional life insurance. At RBC, acceptance into an accidental death policy is typically guaranteed if you are an RBC customer between the ages of 18 and 69 and a Canadian resident. No medical exam is required.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-why-combine-life-insurance-and-accidental-death-coverage\"><a><\/a>Why combine life insurance and accidental death coverage?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Combining life insurance with accidental death coverage provides an additional layer of security for your loved ones and offers peace of mind knowing that your family will be financially supported in the face of an accident resulting in death. Combining these two products is also a cost-effective way to obtain additional coverage because accidental death insurance can be tacked on to your life insurance policy as a rider \u2014 typically at a lower rate than if you purchased the policy separately.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-how-to-combine-life-insurance-and-accidental-death-coverage\"><a><\/a>How to combine life insurance and accidental death coverage<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>There are two ways to combine the protection offered by life insurance and accidental death coverage. Life insurance policyholders can request that an accidental death rider be added to their plan. Or, for more personalized coverage tailored to your specific needs, you can purchase a separate policy. Ask your insurance advisor for guidance on which option best suits your goals and requirements.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-extra-protection-for-you-and-your-loved-ones\"><a><\/a>Extra protection for you and your loved ones<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>While life insurance and accidental death coverage do share some commonalities, they are separate and different insurance products that offer you and your loved ones varying levels of protection. Life insurance offers comprehensive protection and long-term benefits, while accidental death coverage provides affordable, accident-specific protection. Your insurance advisor can help you to choose the right policy \u2014 or combination of policies \u2014 to ensure financial security for you and the people you love most. &nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-frequently-asked-questions-faqs-about-accidental-death-coverage-vs-life-insurance\">Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Accidental Death Coverage vs Life Insurance<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-is-accidental-death-coverage-the-same-as-life-insurance\">Is accidental death coverage the same as life insurance?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>No, these are two separate insurance products that offer different levels of protection. Life insurance is a comprehensive, short- or long-term type of coverage that comes with higher premiums, while accidental death coverage is more affordable but only offers protection against specific circumstances.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-if-i-have-life-insurance-am-i-covered-if-i-die-accidentally\">If I have life insurance, am I covered if I die accidentally?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Most term and permanent life insurance plans do cover accidental death. Your insurance provider can offer you a list of potential exclusions.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-can-i-have-both-life-and-accidental-death-coverage\">Can I have both life and accidental death coverage?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Yes. Combining these two types of coverage offers an additional layer of financial security for your family.<\/p>\n\n\n\t<style type=\"text\/css\">\n\t\t.wp-block-tk-spacer.id-eceebe84-1262-45ab-8d3e-40214eb20fbc {\n\t\theight: 100px;\n\t}\n\n\t@media ( max-width: 480px ) {\n\t\t.wp-block-tk-spacer.id-eceebe84-1262-45ab-8d3e-40214eb20fbc {\n\t\t\theight: 100px;\n\t\t}\n\t}\t<\/style>\n\t<div class=\"wp-block-tk-spacer id-eceebe84-1262-45ab-8d3e-40214eb20fbc\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/div>\n\t\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-rbc-section-inner-block  section-inner block-wpr bg-light-blue rounded-corners pos-rel pad-l pad-r mob-pad-r centered-block mob-pad-l pad-t mob-pad-t pad-b mob-pad-b\" style=\"border-radius:0x\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center mar-t mar-b-hlf mob-mar-b-hlf mob-mar-t\" id=\"h-rbc-life-insurance\">RBC Life Insurance<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center mar-b-hlf mob-mar-b-hlf pad-r mob-pad-r pad-l mob-pad-l has-text-reg-font-size\">Protect Your Loved Ones With Dependable Life Insurance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-content-justification-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-buttons-is-layout-a89b3969 wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\"><div>\n<div class=\"wp-block-button aligncenter btn is-style-primary primary\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link has-text-lg-font-size has-custom-font-size wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/silver.rbcinsurance.com\/life-insurance\/life-insurance-quote\/index.html\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" data-dig-id=\"LP-283-476a44f4\" data-dig-category=\"LP\" data-dig-action=\"button click\" data-dig-label=\"Get a quote-https:\/\/silver.rbcinsurance.com\/life-insurance\/life-insurance-quote\/index.html \">Get a quote<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center mar-t-hlf mob-mar-t-hlf pad-b mob-pad-b has-text-reg-font-size\"><a href=\"https:\/\/silver.rbcinsurance.com\/en-ca\/life-insurance\/\" data-dig-id=\"LP-273-18de2c2e\" data-dig-category=\"LP\" data-dig-action=\"link click\" data-dig-label=\"Learn More\" class=\"rbc-link-format\">Learn More<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\t<style type=\"text\/css\">\n\t\t.wp-block-tk-spacer.id-39dc9538-13e0-465b-be57-18ea335fc290 {\n\t\theight: 100px;\n\t}\n\n\t@media ( max-width: 480px ) {\n\t\t.wp-block-tk-spacer.id-39dc9538-13e0-465b-be57-18ea335fc290 {\n\t\t\theight: 100px;\n\t\t}\n\t}\t<\/style>\n\t<div class=\"wp-block-tk-spacer id-39dc9538-13e0-465b-be57-18ea335fc290\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/div>\n\t\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-rbc-rbc-default-collapsible\"><p><button class=\"collapse-toggle collapsed\" data-target=\"#collapse2de7ba0a\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"collapse2de7ba0a\" data-dig-id=\"LP-30483-2de7ba0a\" data-dig-category=\"LP\" data-dig-action=\"accordion closed\" action-closed=\"accordion closed\" action-opened=\"accordion open\" data-dig-label=\"Things Our Lawyers Want You to Know\"><div>Things Our Lawyers Want You to Know<\/div><\/button><\/p><div class=\"collapse-content collapse\" id=\"collapse2de7ba0a\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-rbc-collapsible-inner-block collapse-inner\">\n<p class=\"has-text-sm-font-size\">This article is intended as general information only and is not to be relied upon as constituting legal, financial or other professional advice. A professional advisor should be consulted regarding your specific situation. Information presented is believed to be factual and up-to-date but we do not guarantee its accuracy and it should not be regarded as a complete analysis of the subjects discussed. All expressions of opinion reflect the judgment of the authors as of the date of publication and are subject to change. No endorsement of any third parties or their advice, opinions, information, products or services is expressly given or implied by Royal Bank of Canada or any of its affiliates.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>These two distinct types of insurance coverage are often thought of as the same thing, but for Canadians seeking the best protection for their loved ones, it&#8217;s important to understand how life and accidental death insurance differ.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":208,"featured_media":30749,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"templates\/new-rbci-design.php","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[54],"tags":[162,4],"article-type":[80],"ppma_author":[169],"class_list":["post-30668","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-life-insurance","tag-accidental-death","tag-life-insurance","article-type-advice-learning"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin v27.3 (Yoast SEO v27.3) - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-premium-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>Difference Between Life Insurance and Accidental Death Coverage | RBC Insurance<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"What&#039;s the difference between life insurance and accidental death? 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