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

A frequent question we receive from clients after they’ve been injured in a crash is: “How long does it take to get lost wages from a car accident?” The timeframe for this can vary based on several factors, including the nature of your injuries, the complexity of your case, and how long it takes to resolve your claim with the insurance company or at trial. At The Barnes Firm, we recognize that time is critical when you’re facing medical bills and missed paychecks, and our goal is to help you recover your lost wages as quickly and efficiently as possible.

In this blog, we’ll explain the timeline for recovering lost wages following a collision in New York and discuss the various factors that can influence this process.

Factors That Can Influence the Timeline for Your Car Accident Case

The time it takes to recover lost income after a car incident can vary based on various key factors:

Fault for the Car Accident

The process tends to move faster if the at-fault driver’s insurance acknowledges liability. However, disagreements regarding responsibility can prolong your claim. In New York’s no-fault system, your own insurance may cover certain lost wages, but disputes with providers can still lead to delays.

The Nature of Your Injuries (and Your Recovery Timeline)

The seriousness of your harm impacts how soon you can get back to work. Minor injuries may facilitate a quicker return, whereas more serious injuries necessitating extended recovery periods could postpone wage recovery, as they involve calculating long-term income loss.

The Total Cost of Your Accident-Related Damages

High-value claims, which include medical expenses and lost income, usually take longer to resolve, as insurers may contest more significant amounts.

When Liable Parties Negotiate in Good Faith

If the coverage provider negotiates fairly, economic recovery can be quick. But, if they offer low settlements or deny claims, legal action may be necessary, prolonging the process.

When Your Case Goes to Court

If a settlement isn’t reached, taking your case to court can substantially delay compensation, often extending the process by several months or even years.

How To Claim Lost Wages After A Car Accident

To recover lost income after a collision in New York, you must file a claim with your insurance provider or the at-fault driver’s coverage company. Working with an experienced car accident lawyer can help you gather the necessary documentation, negotiate with the insurers, and guarantee you receive the indemnity you’re owed.

The steps typically involve:

1. Obtaining written verification from your employer about your lost salary.
2. Providing medical documentation to show you were unable to work due to the incident.
3. Filing your request with the appropriate insurance company.

Types of Lost Wages That Can Be Reimbursed

Knowing that you may be entitled to more than just your regular paycheck is essential when seeking reimbursement. Other types of compensation can include:

• Salary or hourly wages missed during your recovery.
• Overtime payment you would have earned if you weren’t injured.
• Bonuses or commissions you were on track to receive.
• Sick days or vacation time you had to use while you were recovering.

Proving Lost Income After A Car Accident

To successfully claim lost wages, you’ll need to provide documentation that verifies the income you lost due to your incident. This may include:

• Pay stubs or direct deposit records showing your usual wages.
• A letter from your employer confirming how many days you missed and your pay rate.
• Tax returns or other financial documents if you’re self-employed.

Additional Legal Considerations for Lost Wage Reimbursement

In some cases, you may be entitled to future lost salary if your injuries prevent you from returning to work or if your earning potential has been permanently affected. Your lawyer will work with medical experts and financial professionals to determine how much you’re owed for future lost income.

How are Lost Wages Calculated?

Lost wages are typically calculated based on your regular income, but they may also include compensation for overtime, bonuses, or other benefits. Your attorney will consider all sources of revenue to ensure you are fully compensated for what you’ve lost.

Contact a New York Personal Injury Lawyer to Recover Lost Wages After a Car Accident

If you’ve been injured in a collision in New York and are having difficulty recovering your lost wages, The Barnes Firm can help you with our experienced attorneys who understand the complexities of car accident claims and will work to guarantee you receive the compensation you’re entitled to. Call us today at (800) 800-0000 or visit our page for a free consultation.

Richard Barnes – President of The Barnes Firm

Richard Barnes: “As President of The Barnes Firm, I have dedicated my career to achieving justice in hundreds of cases for the victims of injuries caused through the fault of others. Additionally, I have been honored to have been elected Best Lawyer and a Super Lawyer”

Years of Experience: 30+ years
LinkedIn Profile: Richard Barnes