If you’ve been injured in an accident, you may wonder if you can recover lost income. The short answer is yes. In many personal injury claims, lost wages can be included as part of the compensation.
Here are some key points to remember.
What are lost wages?
Lost wages refer to the money you would have earned if you had not been injured. This includes regular hourly or salary pay that you missed while recovering. It can also cover missed overtime bonuses and even paid time off that you had to use because of the injury.
If your injuries impact your ability to work for an extended period, you may also be able to claim loss of future earnings. This refers to income you would likely have earned in the future if the injury had not occurred.
Other expenses you can seek
Lost wages are just one part of a personal injury claim. Other possible expenses include:
- Medical bills for treatment, surgery, therapy or medication
- Travel costs to and from doctor appointments
- Property damage if personal belongings were harmed in the accident
- Home or vehicle modifications if the injury caused a disability
These costs must be linked directly to the accident and supported by records or receipts.
Pain, suffering and emotional distress
In addition to financial losses, many people also seek compensation for pain and suffering. This can include physical pain, anxiety, depression and a reduced quality of life. While harder to measure, these impacts are often included in a claim.
Lost wages and related expenses can have a serious effect on your life after an injury. Understanding what can be claimed helps you prepare for the recovery process. If you have been injured, it’s smart to get legal guidance.
