When the injuries you sustained from a car crash affect your ability to work in the short or long term, you can claim the wages lost as part of the settlement package. A broken leg can keep you out of work for several months, while a spinal injury may mean indefinite time away from work.
It is crucial to understand what you are entitled to in such damages as a victim of an accident caused by a negligent driver. Lost wages include everything you would have earned were it not for your injuries. This includes your regular pay, commissions, overtime pay, bonuses and allowances, where applicable, among others.
Proving lost wages in your car accident claim
As with all other damages, you must prove lost wages for a successful claim.
First, you will need medical evidence that shows how your injuries prevent you from working. A doctor’s report detailing the extent of your injuries, how they impede your ability to work, and how long before you recover will go a long way in helping your case. (This explains the importance of seeking medical attention after an accident, even if you sustain minor injuries.)
Second, you need to provide previous pay stubs, bank statements or a letter from your employer. Lost wages are quantifiable, and you need the necessary documentation to support the figures in your claim.
Protect your interests after a car accident
Recovering lost wages is not always a downhill affair. Some issues may arise in the claims process and complicate everything. For example, there may be questions about pre-existing medical conditions that prevent you from working but are unrelated to the crash.
Therefore, it is best to have proper legal representation to safeguard your interests and ensure you get deserving compensation for this and other damages.