When you're hurt in an accident and can’t work, the bills don’t stop coming. Rent or mortgage, car payments, utilities, groceries—it can all pile up quickly. If you’re recovering from a personal injury, one of the biggest concerns isn’t just your physical health—it’s how you’re going to stay afloat financially while you're unable to earn a paycheck.
This is a question that many injured individuals face: Who pays my bills while I’m out of work? The answer can vary depending on several factors, including how and where the injury occurred, what type of insurance coverage is involved, and whether another party was at fault. In this article, we’ll break down how lost wages and expenses can be covered during your recovery, and what legal options may be available to help you seek compensation.
Workers’ Compensation for On-the-Job Injuries
If your injury occurred at work, you may be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits. In New York and New Jersey, employers are required by law to carry workers’ compensation insurance. This system provides wage replacement and medical coverage for employees injured in the course of their job.
Workers’ compensation typically pays two-thirds of your average weekly wage, up to a state-set maximum, while you are temporarily unable to work. These benefits are not taxed, which helps balance the reduced amount. Additionally, all medical treatment related to your work injury should be covered.
It’s important to report your injury to your employer as soon as possible, and to follow the proper procedures for filing a workers’ comp claim. Delays or mistakes in paperwork can impact your ability to collect benefits.
No-Fault Insurance in Auto Accidents
If your personal injury came from a car accident in New York, no-fault insurance laws may apply. New York is a no-fault state, which means your own auto insurance company is responsible for covering your medical expenses and lost wages—regardless of who caused the accident.
This coverage typically includes up to 80% of your lost income, up to a maximum of $2,000 per month for up to three years after the accident. However, certain exceptions and limits apply. If your injuries are deemed "serious" under New York law, you may be eligible to pursue additional compensation from the at-fault driver through a personal injury lawsuit.
Filing a Personal Injury Lawsuit
When someone else’s negligence causes your injury—whether through a slip and fall, defective product, car accident, or other incident—you may have grounds to file a personal injury claim. A successful lawsuit can help you recover compensation for:
- Medical expenses (past and future)
- Lost wages and loss of future earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Other out-of-pocket expenses
Unlike insurance benefits that are limited by policy caps or formulas, a personal injury lawsuit can seek the full value of your damages. However, legal action can take time, and settlements or verdicts may not arrive until months or even years after the injury.
That’s why many people also explore options like short-term disability, sick leave, or third-party insurance coverage to help fill the gap in the meantime.
Disability Insurance and Paid Leave
If you have private short-term or long-term disability insurance, these policies may provide a percentage of your income while you're out of work. Some employers also offer paid sick leave or family medical leave, which can ease the burden during your recovery period.
In New York State, the Disability Benefits Law (DBL) requires most employers to provide short-term disability coverage for non-job-related injuries. These benefits pay up to 50% of your average weekly wage (up to a cap) for a maximum of 26 weeks.
Health Insurance and Medical Bills
Even if you’re covered under workers’ compensation or no-fault insurance, you may still face medical costs. Health insurance—through your employer, a private plan, or Medicaid—can help cover expenses not fully paid by other forms of coverage.
In some cases, medical providers may agree to delay billing or accept a lien on your personal injury settlement, which allows you to get treatment now and pay later from any future compensation.
What If You’re Self-Employed or an Independent Contractor?
Many people work as freelancers, gig workers, or independent contractors—and they often don’t qualify for traditional workers’ comp or employer-sponsored disability insurance. If you’re in this situation, your options may include:
- Filing a personal injury lawsuit if someone else is at fault
- Making a claim under your own health or disability insurance
- Exploring government assistance or hardship programs during recovery
Legal guidance is especially important in these situations to determine what compensation you're entitled to and how to access it.
Call Brandon J. Broderick For Legal Help
When you're injured and unable to work, financial stress can be just as overwhelming as physical pain. At Brandon J. Broderick, Attorney at Law, we understand what you're going through—and we’re here to help. Our legal team can evaluate your case, explain your rights, and help you pursue the compensation you need to cover your bills and move forward with confidence.
Don’t wait and wonder what comes next. Contact us today to speak with a trusted personal injury attorney who will stand by your side every step of the way.