A car accident can be a traumatic experience that may affect your physical health and lead to significant financial losses. Along with medical bills, lost wages are among the most significant losses faced by many car accident victims.
You may have to stay away from work for a considerable period as you recover from your injuries. Life can get unbearably difficult without a source of livelihood, more so when you have people who depend on you.
In such a case, you deserve compensation for the lost wages you would have otherwise earned were it not for the accident.
Calculating and proving lost wages
Before claiming lost wages, you should first ascertain how much you’ve lost. Lost wages include the earnings you would have earned while you were out of work and any benefits, bonuses or overtime pay you may have missed.
You’ll need to provide documentation such as pay stubs, bank statements and tax returns to prove the lost wages. A formal letter from your employer supporting the figures can help back your claim.
Medical evidence is key
Besides providing financial documentation, it is equally crucial to have medical records stating the extent of your injuries and how long it may take you to resume your work duties. That way, your claim for lost wages will be informed by a professional doctor’s report rather than an unfounded estimation.
The proper guidance will make a huge difference
Navigating a personal injury claim is no easy feat. So much goes on, from identifying damages and negotiations with the insurer to valuing your claim and arriving at a suitable settlement package. The entire process can get overwhelming.
That’s why it’s important to get legal counsel as soon as possible – to help guide you through everything and increase your chances of getting the compensation you deserve.