Out of Work After a Motorcycle Wreck? 

Your Guide to Getting Disability Benefits

Riding through New York isn’t just about getting from point A to B. It’s a way of life. Whether you’re cutting across traffic on Canal Street or taking a quiet spin through Queens at dawn, there’s something about riding that gives you a sense of control. Until it’s taken away in a second. 

If your injuries are keeping you from working, it’s not just frustrating, it’s terrifying. And if you’re here, you’re probably already trying to figure out how disability benefits work.

Our motorcycle accident attorneys at Horn Wright, LLP, help New York riders who’ve been seriously hurt. We work with you to figure out what benefits you might be entitled to and how to actually get them. No jargon. No guesswork. Just a seasoned personal injury law firm that has your back when things feel completely out of control. 

Can You Get Disability After a Motorcycle Wreck? What You Actually Need to Know

New York’s disability system is confusing. There’s paperwork, deadlines, fine print, and more acronyms than anyone needs. But here’s the deal: if you’re injured and can’t work, you might qualify for disability benefits. And those benefits can help cover lost income while you focus on healing.

Here’s how it breaks down:

• Short-Term Disability: Most New York employers have to carry it. You could get up to $170/week for 26 weeks if your injuries keep you from your job. That’s not a lot. But in NY, every dollar matters. 
• Long-Term Disability: This one’s based on your job or private insurance policy. If your recovery is going to take a long time, or if returning to work isn’t an option, this might kick in. It usually covers around60% of your wages.
• Social Security Disability Insurance: The federal safety net. If your condition is serious and expected to last at least a year, this could be available. But heads up. Most people get denied on the first try. 

So, what’s the catch?

Eligibility depends on a mix of things: your work history, the nature of your injuries, whether your doctor says you can work in any job (not just the one you had), and how well everything’s documented.

It’s a lot. But you’re not expected to know all the answers right now. That’s why our motorcycle injury law firm is here.

The Claims Process Isn’t Easy, But You’re Not Alone in This

Let’s not sugarcoat it. Filing a disability claim after a crash is frustrating. You’re in pain, you’re exhausted, and now they want you to gather forms, prove every detail, and follow a strict process? It’s overwhelming.

Here’s what actually happens when you apply.

Short-Term Disability in NY

Most people start here. If your accident happened off the job (which includes nearly all motorcycle crashes), you may qualify. You’ll need to:

• Fill out form DB-450
• Get your doctor to confirm your injury and inability to work
• File the paperwork within 30 days

STD pays up to $170/week. Not great, but it can hold you over while you figure out the next steps.

Social Security Disability 

This is where things get tricky. Social security disability is designed for people who can’t work in any meaningful way for at least a year. Sounds straightforward, right? 

But SSA’s definition of “disabled” is not the same as your doctor’s. And the process? Slow. Bureaucratic. Frequently unfair. Here’s what you need:

• Strong medical records that show your limitations
• A work history that shows you’ve paid into the system
• Patience - because the review process can take months

Good news: if your application gets denied (and it probably will), you can appeal. Most people who eventually get SSDI don’t get it on the first try. They get it because they kept going.

That’s also when having a motorcycle accident lawyer on your side really helps.

Long-Term Disability (LTD)

If you had LTD coverage through your job or a private policy, now’s the time to pull out that paperwork.

Most LTD claims involve:

• A waiting period (often 90–180 days)
• Proof that you can’t perform your usual job, or eventually, any job at all
• Periodic reevaluation by the insurance company

And don’t be surprised if your claim gets delayed or questioned. Riders often get hit with skepticism: “Was it really that bad?” “Are you sure it wasn’t your fault?” We’ve heard it all and we know how to respond.

If you’re also filing a motorcycle wreck compensation claim, we’ll help make sure your disability paperwork lines up with your personal injury claim so nothing conflicts.

How to Strengthen Your Claim (Without Losing Your Mind)

You don’t need to become a disability expert overnight. But there are a few things you can do to make your case stronger and avoid delays.

Keep Your Medical Records Tight

Doctors don’t just treat you. They document your recovery. That paperwork? It’s gold when it comes to disability claims.

Make sure your file includes:

• Detailed treatment notes
• Imaging (MRIs, CT scans, X-rays)
• Referrals to specialists
• Limitations on physical activity or cognitive function
• Any formal testing, like a functional capacity evaluation
• And yes. It’s okay to ask your doctor to be specific.

Be Clear About How You’re Affected

You don’t have to “sell” your injury. Just describe what it’s like to live with it.

• Can you stand or walk for more than a few minutes?
• Can you concentrate for an hour?
• Do your symptoms keep you from driving, cooking, cleaning?

You’re not being negative, you’re being real. This is your story, and it matters.

Expect to Be Evaluated Again

If the SSA or your insurer requests an independent medical exam, it’s not a favor. These doctors work for the system, not for you. Their job is to verify or sometimes dispute your claim.

Go in prepared. Tell the truth. Don’t downplay your symptoms, but don’t exaggerate them either. Just be honest about what daily life is like now.

Stay Organized (Even If It’s Not Your Thing)

Life’s chaotic enough already. But the more organized you are, the less you’ll feel blindsided. Create a file (digital or paper) with:

• All forms you’ve submitted
• Copies of your medical records
• Letters or notices from insurance or Social Security Administration
• A simple timeline of your treatment and symptoms

You’ll thank yourself later.

Let Horn Wright, LLP, Help You Move Forward

You didn’t ask for this. You didn’t plan for a crash to knock you off track. But here you are, facing a mountain of uncertainty while trying to get better.

Our motorcycle accident lawyers at Horn Wright, LLP, represent riders across New York City who can’t work due to serious injuries. Whether you’re applying for short-term disability, SSDI, or long-term private benefits, we’ll handle the paperwork, track the deadlines, and fight for what you’re owed.

You’ve got enough to carry already. Let us handle this part. Contact our office today to request your free and no-obligation consultation with one of the best law firms in America.