Car accidents can bring about more than just physical injuries. They can lead to significant financial consequences, with lost wages being one of the main concerns. In Kentucky, those involved in car accidents may wonder if they can recover lost wages caused by injuries sustained in the accident.
Understanding Kentucky’s laws about recovering lost wages becomes crucial for those who have missed work due to a car accident. It is about knowing your rights and what you need to do to make sure you receive the compensation you deserve.
Understanding lost wages
Lost wages refer to the income an individual could not earn because of their inability to work due to injuries from a car accident. Lost wages include the time taken off work for medical appointments, physical therapy and any other related situations that prevent the injured employee from working.
Recovering lost wages
Kentucky law does allow for the recovery of lost wages after a car accident. If another driver caused the accident, the person affected could file a claim against the at-fault driver’s insurance company to recover lost wages. This is part of the economic damages a person can recover in a personal injury claim.
Documenting lost wages
To claim lost wages, the person involved in the crash needs to provide adequate documentation. This includes a written statement from the employer detailing the days missed, hours worked, pay rate and any opportunities for overtime lost because of the accident. Medical documentation that clearly links missed work to the injuries from the accident also becomes necessary.
No-fault insurance and lost wages
Kentucky operates under a no-fault insurance system. This means that regardless of who caused the accident, one can file a claim under their own Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage. PIP can cover a portion of lost wages, up to the limit of the policy.
Involvement of a jury
If a case goes to trial, the jury will consider evidence, including the severity of the injuries, the amount of work missed and the likelihood of future lost wages. They will then determine the amount of compensation for lost wages.
By providing the documentation needed and working with Kentucky’s laws, you can recover your lost wages after a car accident.