Overview
Missing work because of accident injuries means lost income, and that's money you can recover as part of your claim. Calculating exactly how much you've lost requires documenting your regular income, the dates you missed work, and connecting those absences clearly to your injuries. The process can get complex for self-employed people, commission-based workers, or those with irregular income. Getting it right matters because lost wages can be a significant part of your total compensation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I recover compensation for wages I lost after an accident?
Yes. Lost wages are a standard part of personal injury claims and include both the time you missed while recovering and any reduction in future earning capacity if the injury causes lasting effects on your ability to work. You need to show that the missed work was directly caused by your injury and treatment, and that you would have earned that money but for the accident.
How do I prove my lost wages?
For salaried employees, pay stubs and employer statements are typically sufficient. For self-employed people, business records, tax returns, and documentation of lost client work or missed projects helps. Either way, you want clear proof of your normal income level and documentation of the dates you were unable to work due to your injury or treatment.
What about time I missed but got paid for?
If you used vacation days or sick leave to cover the time you couldn't work, you may still be able to recover the value of the paid time off you used, since you wouldn't have needed to use it but for the accident. Keep documentation of what paid leave you burned through.
What if my injury affects my long-term earning capacity?
If the accident leaves you unable to return to your previous job, earn at the same rate, or do physical work you previously could do, you can recover compensation for the future income you'll lose. This usually requires expert testimony about your reduced earning capacity and involves calculations about your work life expectancy and expected income trajectory.
How do I calculate lost wages for irregular or commission-based income?
This requires averaging your income over a reasonable prior period, often the previous 12 months, to establish what you normally earn, and then showing the dates and amounts you lost due to the accident. Self-employed people and those on commission should keep very detailed records of all work and income.
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