If you have been injured due to someone else’s negligence, the financial impact can be just as overwhelming as the physical pain. Medical bills pile up quickly, but what about the income you lose while recovering? In a personal injury case, you have the right to seek compensation for lost wages, ensuring that your financial stability is not jeopardized by an accident that was not your fault.
In the guide below, we will review in detail what these lost wages entail and how to calculate them in a personal injury case.
Types of Lost Wages You Can Recover
Lost wages go beyond just the paycheck missed while recovering. In fact, several types of compensation may be accessible, including:
- Regular earnings: Your standard salary or hourly wages that you missed due to your injury.
- Overtime: If you regularly work overtime, you can claim compensation for lost opportunities.
- Bonuses and commissions: If you were on track to earn a bonus or commission but could not because of your injury, this lost income could be included.
- Sick leave and vacation days: If you used paid time off (PTO) while recovering, you can seek compensation for those lost benefits.
- Self-employment income: Independent contractors and business owners can recover lost income based on previous earnings and potential lost business opportunities.
To fully understand what compensation you may be entitled to, consulting with an experienced personal injury attorney is crucial. These legal professionals can address your questions and help you understand the financial recovery options you can pursue.
Proving Lost Wages in a Personal Injury Case
To effectively claim compensation for lost wages, individuals must present clear proof of their lost income. This proof can include the following types of evidence:
- Pay stubs or direct deposit records: These documents establish your typical income before the injury.
- Employer verification: A letter from your employer confirming your absence and how much you would have earned.
- Tax returns: If you’re self-employed, tax records can demonstrate your annual earnings.
- Work schedules: A record of your scheduled hours and missed shifts.
- Medical records: Proof that your injury required time off work.
Future Lost Earnings and Reduced Earning Capacity
In severe cases, an injury may prevent you from returning to work for an extended period or even permanently. If your ability to earn a living has been affected, you may be entitled to compensation for future lost earnings or reduced earning capacity.
However, calculating future lost wages is more complex and often requires expert testimony from economists or vocational experts. Factors that can influence this calculation include the following:
- The occupation and salary before the injury.
- The severity of the injury and expected recovery time.
- The ability to return to work in any capacity.
- Whether earning potential has been diminished.
How Can a Personal Injury Attorney Help You Recover Lost Wages in Missouri?
Establishing lost wages can be a complicated process. For instance, insurance companies may try to dispute your claim, contending that your injuries are not as severe as you assert or that your lost income lacks adequate justification. In these situations, partnering with a skilled Missouri personal injury attorney can significantly impact your outcome.
At Wegmann Law Firm, our skilled legal team fights to ensure clients recover every dollar they are entitled to. From gathering the necessary documentation to working with financial experts, we are here to build a strong case on your behalf and maximize compensation.
Contact Wegmann Law Firm Today To Learn More About Lost Wages
If you have suffered lost wages due to an injury, contact our legal team today for a free consultation. Let us help you go after the financial recovery you deserve.
