After a car accident injury, you may be eligible to receive lost wage compensation depending on your auto insurance coverage. If you are eligible, the ease of the process will be decided by your line of work.
Car Insurance Policies Covering Lost Wages
Having the following auto insurance policies can help you recover lost wages if you lose time at work due to an auto accident injury:
- Personal Injury Protection (PIP). This is also referred to as “no-fault” coverage. This is an extension of car insurance that covers medical expenses, and in some cases, lost wages and other damages. Because this is regarded as “no fault,’ PIP is meant to be paid to the injured persons regardless of whether or not they’re at fault or legally liable.
- Bodily Injury Liability Insurance. This covers lost income if you were not deemed to be at fault for the car accident. Under this policy, you will file a lost wages claim with the liable driver’s car insurance company.
Filing for Lost Wages
When filing for lost wages, you will need to send the insurance company documented evidence proving you have or had an injury. You must submit the following evidence:
- In the form of a letter from your personal physician, send proof of your injuries. Have him describe the injuries and the extent to which they prevented you from working.
- Send documented proof that you missed time at work and the subsequent wage loss total. You will most likely need your employer to confirm the amount of lost wages, and if the injury causes long-term problems, document your lost-earning potential.
Some car insurance companies may decide you need more evidence. Some insurance claims adjusters may want to speak to your boss or manager. They may want permission to review medical history, as well.
Self-Employment
When you are self-employed or if you have an income that is commission based, providing proof of lost wages is more difficult. When dealing with this situation, you will need to provide the insurance company with copies of your tax returns. Insurance companies differ on the requested amount. You will also need to provide evidence of your car accident injury.
You May Need a Personal Injury Attorney
Car insurance companies can be very difficult to deal with if you don’t obtain help from an experienced personal injury lawyer. These agencies are simply worried about paying you as little as possible for your injury. When you hire a personal injury attorney at the Heslin Law Firm, we will handle all aspects of your case. This means you are no longer required to speak with the claims adjuster.
To increase the odds of receiving a fair financial settlement, hire a Philadelphia personal injury lawyer. Contact us for a free consultation. We operate on a contingency fee basis. This means if you don’t get paid, we don’t get paid.