How Do I Handle Lost Wages Due to a Car Accident?
It happens in a blink. One moment, you’re commuting smoothly up I-190, and the next, your career’s been destroyed by a distracted driver. Millions of Americans live paycheck to paycheck, and few can endure an extended period of disability without their full salaries.
At the Steve Foley Law Firm, our compassionate Buffalo car accident lawyers understand the substantial financial stress unexpected motor vehicle accident injuries can have on families. Let our dedicated car accident attorneys fight for your right to wage compensation in New York. Contact us online or at (716) 621-2055 to schedule your free case consultation today.
Understanding New York State’s No-Fault Insurance Laws
As a no-fault insurance state, New York requires vehicle owners to carry at least $50,000 in personal injury protection (PIP) benefits to cover lost wages incurred in motor vehicle accidents. These benefits kick in regardless of fault, meaning you do not have to prove liability to obtain immediate financial relief. However, PIP covers medical expenses such as ambulance and hospital bills, doctor’s visits, surgery, medical equipment, therapy, and medications. Victims of serious auto accident injuries, such as those suffering from head or spinal cord trauma, can deplete their no-fault benefits in a month.
While no-fault benefits can provide adequate lost wage compensation for those suffering from minor injuries, such as whiplash, they are seldom enough to compensate seriously injured claimants. In such cases, it’s essential to consult with a car crash attorney in Buffalo to discuss your right to seek additional lost work compensation from the negligent driver.
Lost Wage Compensation Available in Buffalo
New York State permits eligible claimants to demand the full value of their lost wages from negligent drivers, including more than their paycheck. With the help of the right car crash lawyer, you might be entitled to claim the following loss of earnings and related benefits under New York law:
- Direct loss of earnings (hourly wages/salary and overtime)
- Commissions
- Guaranteed bonuses
- Lost business opportunities
- Missed or delayed promotions
- Future lost wages
- The value of lost benefits (health insurance, vacation time)
- Pension and retirement contributions
Keep diligent records of any missed business opportunities, commissions, and bonuses. With the right evidence, eligible claimants may recover these damages.
Estimating the Value of Long-Term Lost Wage and Benefit Claims
Most motor vehicle accident claims settle with liable insurers before the claimant returns to work. Sometimes, the claimant can never return to full-time employment or a previous career. Experienced personal injury lawyers will hire expert witnesses to calculate the long-term value of your lost wage and benefits claims. With this specialist report, your attorney may demand the value of your past losses and future anticipated lost wages during settlement negotiations.
Connect with our Experienced Buffalo Car Accident Attorneys
Don’t leave essential lost wage compensation on the table. Let the dedicated personal injury lawyers at the Steve Foley Law Firm fight for your right to full lost wage compensation after a Buffalo car crash. Schedule your free case consultation online or call (716) 621-2055.