Being involved in a car accident and sustaining injuries can be a devastating experience. Not only are you dealing with physical pain and emotional distress, but you might also find yourself unable to work, leading to a loss of income. This financial burden adds another layer of stress to an already difficult situation. However, Connecticut law allows car accident victims to recover lost wages, both past and future, through insurance claims or lawsuits.
If you've been injured in a car accident and can't work, the first step is to file a claim with the appropriate insurance company. Your claim will detail the accident, your injuries, and the lost wages you've incurred. To prove your lost wages, gather documents such as pay stubs, tax returns, and a doctor's note restricting you from work.
Bodily Injury Liability Insurance — Most car insurance policies include bodily injury (BI) liability coverage. The at-fault driver’s coverage pays for the medical expenses and lost wages of the injured party.
Personal Injury Protection (PIP) — PIP is a type of optional insurance that covers your medical expenses and lost wages regardless of who caused the accident. However, PIP coverage has limits, and it might not fully compensate for your lost income.
PIP coverage varies by insurance company, but it typically pays a percentage of your lost wages, often around 80 percent. It also has a maximum benefit limit, which can be quickly depleted depending on the severity of your injuries and the duration of your recovery.
The process for recovering lost wages under PIP is simpler than filing a claim with the at-fault driver's insurance company. You typically file a claim directly with your own insurance provider. Be sure to keep detailed records of your lost income to ensure proper compensation. PIP can also cover transportation expenses and miscellaneous household assistance expenses while you recover from your injuries.
If your lost wages exceed the limits of your PIP coverage or if the at-fault driver has no insurance or insufficient coverage, you might need to consider filing a personal injury lawsuit. This process involves proving the other driver's negligence caused your accident and injuries.
Recovering lost wages after a car accident can be a complex process. An experienced automobile injury attorney can help you take the necessary legal steps, maximize your compensation and ensure you receive fair treatment from insurance companies.
Gesmonde, Pietrosimone & Sgrignari, L.L.C. in Hamden and East Haven advocates on behalf of Connecticut clients injured in car crashes. To discuss your case, please call 203-745-0942 or contact us online.
Gesmonde, Pietrosimone & Sgrignari, L.L.C. is located in Hamden, CT and serves clients in and around North Haven, Hamden, Waterbury, Bethany, Milford, Wallingford, Prospect, Woodbridge, Northford, Madison, Beacon Falls, Branford, Cheshire, North Branford, East Haven, Naugatuck, Meriden, Ansonia and New Haven County.
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