If you’ve been injured in an accident in Charlotte, whether from a car crash, slip-and-fall, or workplace incident, missing work and losing income adds another layer of stress to your recovery. Fortunately, North Carolina law allows injured individuals to pursue lost wage compensation in addition to medical costs and other damages.
What Are Lost Wages?
“Lost wages” refers to income you would have earned if you hadn’t been injured. This includes hourly wages, salary, bonuses, commissions, and even lost overtime. For many Charlotte residents, missing days or weeks of work can rapidly cause financial hardship.
How to Prove Lost Wages in a Personal Injury Claim
To recover lost wages, you’ll need to provide documentation and evidence:
- Medical Records: Show your injuries and how they prevented you from working.
- Employer Verification: A letter from your company can confirm missed days, job duties, and your regular income.
- Pay Stubs or Tax Returns: Proof of prior earnings helps calculate the exact amount owed.
- Expert Testimony: In cases of permanent injury, an expert can estimate future lost earning potential.
Lost Wage Recovery for Self-Employed and Hourly Workers
If you’re self-employed, keep detailed invoices, contracts, and records to demonstrate income lost during recovery. Hourly workers should retain recent pay stubs and obtain a statement from their employer showing average hours worked and hourly wage.
How an Attorney Maximizes Your Lost Wage Claim
North Carolina’s strict contributory negligence rules can make recovering damages challenging if fault is disputed. A Charlotte personal injury lawyer ensures your claim includes every wage loss, negotiates with insurance companies, and builds strong evidence to support your case.
If you’ve been injured in a car accident, contact us today by submitting our form or giving us a call at 704-333-1114. We’ll guide you through documenting your losses, negotiating with insurers, and fighting for your right to full lost wage compensation.