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How can people calculate their lost wages after a car crash?

On Behalf of | Oct 7, 2024 | Motor Vehicle Accidents

Car crashes are often expensive because they can inspire property damage and injuries. People with fractures or head injuries after a car crash may have major medical expenses to cover. The more serious the injuries are, the more likely someone is to have lost wages as well.

A temporary leave from work can compound the financial challenges generated by a collision by eliminating someone’s income. Both insurance claims and personal injury lawsuits can help people recover their lost wages. Typically, those seeking car crash compensation need to request a specific amount based on their provable losses.

How can those who cannot work because of an injury calculate their lost wages?

Lost wages can be hard to estimate

Those with relatively minor injuries who need a day or two away from work to heal have an easy time calculating their lost wages. They can easily determine what they should have earned if they didn’t attend work for four days while recovering from their injuries.

When the injury causes a longer-term leave of absence, estimating the financial impact becomes more difficult. In some cases, workers may not be able to maintain their employment after an extended leave of absence. Smaller companies, in particular, may not be able to accommodate a lengthy leave of absence and may not be subject to the rules imposed by the Family and Medical Leave Act.

Even if they don’t lose their job, the injured party may lose out on advancement opportunities. Although an employer may know that the leave of absence was the result of a medical issue, their lengthy absence can limit their opportunities for career development at that company in the future.

If the injuries caused by the crash are serious enough to cause permanent symptoms, then the injured worker might have to change professions. They may then always command lower wages and less valuable employment benefits.

Many people struggle to accurately estimate the long-term economic impact that injuries from a car crash can generate. Working with a professional who understands the various ways injuries affect earning potential and income makes it easier for people to accurately estimate their losses.

Pursuing compensation after a car crash often requires assistance, as an injured party may need help estimating financial impacts, evaluating their options and negotiating with insurance companies. Workers who have the right help can minimize their career and financial setbacks after a major car crash.