How to Claim Lost Wages from a Car Accident

You’re injured, unable to work, and the bills are piling up after your car accident. Without a paycheck, balancing everyday expenses and medical costs feels impossible. How are you supposed to manage it all while recovering?

It’s a situation no one plans for, but if you are injured in a car accident in Colorado that wasn’t your fault, you have options to recover lost wages. Read on to learn how to claim lost wages from a car accident and secure the compensation you need.

Can You Get Lost Wages from a Car Accident?

After a car accident that leaves you unable to work, you may ask, Can I claim lost wages from a car accident? The answer is yes. You can seek compensation for income lost due to injuries caused by another driver, including more than just your regular salary. Here’s what you may include in your claim:

• Bonuses and commissions. You can seek to recover lost income from bonuses and commissions if you have a performance-based pay structure.
• Overtime pay. Were you scheduled to work extra hours? You can also include those in your claim.

In addition to recovering wages you’ve already lost, you may be entitled to future income loss if your injuries prevent you from working at the same capacity, such as:

• Part-time or reduced hours. You can claim the difference in income if you must work fewer hours as a result of the accident.
• Permanent disability. If you can’t return to your previous role, you may be able to recover the income lost due to this change.

To support your claim, gather the following documentation:

• Pay stubs or tax records showing your earnings before the accident,
• A statement from your employer verifying your time off work, and
• Medical records confirming your inability to work.

Insurance companies often downplay lost wage claims, questioning whether your injuries are as serious as you say or if your documentation is enough. Get the legal support you need to fight for every dollar you deserve.

Who Pays for Lost Wages in a Car Accident?

So, who is responsible for paying your lost wages due to a car accident? In Colorado, the at-fault driver is liable for your damages, and their insurance company typically handles the compensation. However, keep in mind that insurance companies are in the business of protecting their bottom line, so they may try to:

• Shift blame by arguing that you were partially at fault for the accident to reduce their payout,
• Minimize your losses by suggesting that you could have returned to work sooner or that your lost income is less than you claim, and
• Delay your claim in hopes that you will accept a lower settlement out of frustration.

That’s why having the proper legal representation is so important. At Sloat, Nicholson & Hoover, P.C., we know how insurance companies operate. We can help you counter their tactics and build a case that accurately reflects your lost wages. 

How Long Does It Take to Get Lost Wages from a Car Accident?

We understand you’re worried about your finances. It’s hard to plan for the future when you don’t know when you’ll be back at work or when your lost wages will be replaced.

Unfortunately, there’s no easy answer because every case is different. Factors such as the extent of your injuries, the complexity of your claim, and how cooperative the insurance company is all play a role.

It’s important to act promptly. Colorado law gives you three years to file a personal injury claim, but the sooner you start the process, the better. Doing so will help preserve evidence and keep your case moving efficiently.

We know that delays and uncertainty only add to your stress. Our team will work diligently to resolve your claim as quickly as possible. You can count on us to be responsive to your questions and concerns and to keep you updated on the progress of your case.

How to Get Lost Wages After an Accident

You know you can claim lost wages, but how do you actually get them? Here’s what you need to do:

• Get medical attention. Don’t wait to see a doctor, even if your injuries seem minor. Detailed medical records are crucial for proving your injuries and how they affect your ability to work.
• Inform your employer. Report the accident and why you can’t work. Get a written statement confirming your time off and pay rate.
• Track all lost income. Make sure you include your salary, overtime, bonuses, commissions, and any freelance or contract work in your claim.

The insurance company might say your injuries aren’t that bad, or you could have returned to work sooner. Detailed records counter these arguments. We can gather the evidence needed and handle negotiations to help secure the compensation you’re owed.

Can I Claim Lost Wages If I’m Self-Employed?

Being self-employed adds another layer of complexity to a car accident claim. You might wonder, How can I prove my lost income if I don’t have pay stubs or an employer to vouch for me?

Rest assured, you can claim lost wages even if you’re self-employed. Here’s what you can use to support your claim:

• Contracts or invoices. Gather any documents that show projects or work you had to cancel due to your injuries.
• Business income statements. These can demonstrate how your revenue has decreased since the accident.
• Tax records. Your tax returns provide a history of your earnings and can show your typical income level.

Insurance adjusters often argue that self-employment income is too variable to calculate a precise loss. Our firm understands the challenges self-employed individuals face and works to ensure that all losses—both immediate and long-term—are accounted for.

Get Help with Your Lost Wage Claim After a Car Accident

Recovering lost wages goes beyond replacing a paycheck—it’s about rebuilding your sense of stability after a car accident has impacted your ability to work. Figuring out how to claim lost wages may seem overwhelming, but you don’t have to handle it yourself.

Our attorneys have 100 years of combined experience helping people in Colorado recover what they’ve lost after serious accidents. From dealing with insurance companies to building a solid case, we are committed to ensuring your compensation reflects your lost income. Contact Sloat, Nicholson & Hoover, P.C. today for a free consultation.