The aftermath of a car accident can be challenging, especially when it prevents you from returning to work. Besides the time you will spend treating the injuries you sustained, you may have to take a few more days or even months to recuperate. Being unable to do your job can significantly affect your finances. In addition to being negatively impacted financially, you will contend with emotional trauma from the event. Georgia laws allow car crash victims to seek the compensation they need to get their lives back on track.
Understanding lost wages
Lost wages refer to salaries and earnings lost due to injuries or disability resulting from motor vehicle accidents. This includes both past and future wages, representing the income an accident victim would have earned had the crash not occurred. Lost wages are generally lumped together with other damages as part of a personal injury claim or lawsuit. If you’re unable to work because of your injuries, you may be able to recoup those lost wages through an insurance settlement or court claim.
Proving lost wages
It is important to provide sufficient evidence to back up your claim, such as pay stubs, W-2 or 1099 forms, tax returns, timesheets, employment contracts or any other documentation that shows the income you would have earned had the accident not happened. You should also be able to provide evidence showing a timeline of your missed employment days.
Additionally, you may need to provide a medical report from your doctor documenting the severity and duration of your injuries and how it affects your capacity to work. He or she can testify in court as to how long you’ll be out of commission and when they expect you to return to work.
Timeline for seeking lost wages in Georgia
In Georgia, you have two years from the date of the accident to file a claim for lost wages. However, a judge may elongate this timeline if your case is especially complex or involves multiple defendants.
Understanding your rights and the potential compensation you’re entitled to can significantly ease the financial strain of an unexpected car accident. Remember, it’s not just about making ends meet while you’re unable to work. You must secure the financial future you were on track to have before the accident.