Being involved in an accident can have far-reaching consequences, especially when it impacts your ability to work. In Maryland, if you’ve suffered injuries due to someone else’s negligence, you may be entitled to recover lost wages as part of your personal injury claim. This includes not only the income you’ve already lost but also potential future earnings.
What Constitutes Lost Wages?
Lost wages refer to the income you would have earned had the accident not occurred.
This encompasses:
- Hourly or Salaried Income: Compensation for the time you were unable to work.
- Bonuses and Commissions: Earnings that are a regular part of your compensation package.
- Overtime Pay: Additional hours you would have worked.
- Sick Leave and Vacation Time: Paid time off used during recovery.
- Diminished Earning Capacity: If your injuries prevent you from returning to your previous job or limit your ability to earn in the future.
Calculating Lost Wages
The method for calculating lost wages varies depending on your employment status:
For Hourly Employees
Multiply your hourly wage by the number of hours missed due to the injury. For example, if you earn $20/hour and missed 40 hours, your lost wages would be $800.
For Salaried Employees
Divide your annual salary by 2,080 (the average number of work hours in a year) to determine your hourly rate, then multiply by the hours missed.
For Self-Employed Individuals
Calculating lost income can be more complex. You’ll need to provide documentation such as 1099 forms, invoices, bank statements, and profit and loss records to demonstrate your typical earnings and the impact of the injury on your income.
Proving Lost Wages
To substantiate your claim for lost wages, you’ll need:
Medical Documentation: A physician’s note or disability slip indicating your inability to work.
- Employment Records: Pay stubs, tax returns, or a letter from your employer verifying your salary and time missed.
- Self-Employment Records: Financial documents that reflect your income before and after the accident.
Statute of Limitations in Maryland
In Maryland, you have three years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit, which includes claims for lost wages. Failing to file within this timeframe may
forfeit your right to compensation.
Why Legal Assistance Matters
Navigating the process of claiming lost wages can be intricate, especially when dealing with insurance companies or complex employment situations. An experienced personal injury attorney can help ensure that you receive the full compensation you’re entitled to by:
- Gathering and presenting necessary documentation.
- Negotiating with insurance companies.
- Representing you in court, if necessary.
Contact Us Today
If you’ve been injured in an accident and are facing lost wages, don’t navigate this challenging time alone. At Psoras and Psoras Law, we’re committed to helping you secure the compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation.