SSDI is intended for those that will be unable to work for a minimum of a year as a bare minimum. The process can be complicated and incredibly stressful. But being unable to work and have no income would not be a picnic for most people either.

If you anticipate a long term disability that will keep you from working any job, than it makes sense to apply. If you think there is potential for you to adapt and figure out a way to either work or run a business, those are probably easier and more profitable options.

Many people consider anyone applying for or receiving any form of disability benefits to be "working the system". Do other people's opinions concern you?

Are your doctors supportive of your applying? Without their support, it will be nearly impossible to be approved.

Any gaps in your employment history are going to be issue regardless of the application, so...

Without knowing what type of injury you're dealing with or what your options are, it's going to be difficult for anyone to give you much advice.

This type of general question has never really come up before, to my recollection.