In the unfortunate event that you are not able to work because of injuries that you suffered as a result of someone else’s negligence, you are legally entitled to file a claim against a negligent party to recover monetary compensation for your losses. Unfortunately, certain injuries can hinder an individual’s critical capabilities needed to perform the duties of their occupation. If you have missed a substantial amount of time at work because you are recovering or your injuries have resulted in permanent disability, you are entitled to recover your lost wages. However, to recover compensation for your damages, you are required to prove that your injuries have prevented you from working. Keep reading to learn whether you can sue for lost wages in a personal injury claim and how our proficient Washington D.C. Injury Attorneys can help you navigate your legal options.
How can I sue for lost wages?
Lost wages refer to any type of income that you have not received because you are unable to work as a result of your injuries. Following any type of accident, you may have to miss a significant amount of work which results in a loss of income. Additionally, your injuries may have diminished your previous abilities needed to fulfill the duties of your job requirements. In this case, you are entitled to seek compensation for your lost wages. Nonetheless, as mentioned above, you will have to prove that your injuries prevented you from working or you were undergoing treatment for your injuries which caused you to miss work. The following evidence can help prove your lost wages:
- Hospital bills and medical records.
- Expert testimony from a medical professional or therapist that can verify your physical trauma and occupational limitations you’ve encountered as a result of your injuries.
- Statements made by your employer that can corroborate the dates that you have had to miss work as a result of your injuries.
- Statements made by any witnesses.
- Statements by loved ones that can explain the negative effects your injuries have had on your life.
What exactly is recoverable in a personal injury case?
In the District of Columbia, if you have been injured as a direct result of another person’s negligent actions you are legally entitled to file a claim against that party to recover monetary compensation for your economic and non-economic damages. Economic damages are calculable losses such as past and future medical bills, property damage, lost earning capacity, vocational rehabilitation, household services, and lost wages. Essentially, they are out-of-pocket expenses. Non-economic damages on the other hand are subjective losses. This includes pain and suffering, emotional distress, loss of society and companionship, loss of consortium, and loss of enjoyment of life. Essentially, they are not quantifiable losses. If you are injured as a result of someone else’s negligence, you are entitled to reimbursement for your economic and non-economic damages. Ultimately, you can sue for lost wages. Regardless of whether you work full-time, part-time, on hourly wages, or are self-employed, you may file a personal injury claim to seek financial compensation for your lost wages and other losses.
For more information, please don’t hesitate to contact one of our determined lawyers. Our firm is committed to helping our clients seek monetary compensation for their economic and non-economic damages.
