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Car accidents can be devastating, especially if you do not know the next steps to take.
You also have to consider your job and finances. It might not be possible for you to work if the car accident injuries are severe.
How much time will you be off work? Will the boss fire you for staying off work for injuries sustained during the accident? And, what should you do to recover your lost wages and coverage for damages due to the accident?
At JustCallMoe, we can advise you how to file a car accident claim that seeks to compensate you for your lost wages. Call our Florida car accident attorneys to represent you in the event a car accident is causing you to miss work.
Can I Be Fired for Missing Work From Car Accident Injuries?
Given that Florida is an at-will employment state, your employer can let you go at any time without any reason or prior warning, unless there’s an employment contract stating otherwise. However, the contract might also have terms that allow the employer to terminate you for certain reasons, including missing work due to an injury.
Following a car accident, your employer in Florida can terminate your employment if they feel the car accident injuries are compromising your ability to work and fulfill your duties as expected. Remember that you should communicate with your employer and let them know about the injuries and how long it will take before you can work again. You can involve your doctor when necessary.
Can I Recover Lost Wages From a Car Accident?
After a car accident, you may lose wages and possibly end up falling behind on bills. It’s a frustrating position, especially when the car accident was not your fault and you are out of work for an extended period of time.
Luckily, you can file a personal injury claim and may be able to receive compensation for present and future lost wages until you can return to work.
Lost wages are the amount you would have earned by working had you not sustained injuries from the accident. In some cases, attorneys will consult with a vocational expert who will calculate your potential lost wages by looking at the amount you should have earned during the period you were injured and unable to work.
To prove your lost wages following a car accident you may need:
- A letter or testimony from the physician describing the injuries and how the injuries prevented you from working.
- A letter or testimony from your employer to verify you missed work due to the injuries.
- A disability slip from the doctor in case of a permanent injury and disability.
- Recent pay stubs to show current earnings. You may also be able to use the past year’s tax returns, invoices, or any other client correspondence to show how much you earn and the lost wages.
- A police report of your accident.
The vocational expert might also consider the following when calculating your lost wages:
- Your current income
- Expected raises and promotions throughout your career
- Inflation
- Your age
- Retirement income
- Past earnings
- Retirement income
- Your overall health
Missing Work From a Car Accident? JustCallMoe!
Don’t feel overwhelmed by the worry of losing income from being out-of-work after a car accident. JustCallMoe is available at 866-327-5063 or by contacting us online. Schedule a free initial consultation with our lawyers and we can help seek compensation for your lost wages on your behalf.
Car Accident Compensation FAQs
Who pays for lost wages due to car accident injuries?
Under PIP, your insurance may be able to pay some of your lost wages. However, any expenses in excess of the $10,000 may be paid by your own insurance company or the at-fault driver’s insurance, depending on the coverage available.
How long do I have to seek compensation after a car injury in Florida?
The statute of limitations for personal injury cases in Florida is generally four years from the date of the accident, per Florida Statutes § 95.11(3)(a). However, it’s advisable to report your injuries and seek compensation from insurers to avoid complications as soon as possible.
How long does it take to get lost wages from a car accident?
This is a difficult question to answer and it depends on the complexity of the case and the coverage available. If you are able to receive lost wages through your no-fault coverage, you may be able to get lost wages in as little as a few months. If you are seeking lost wages from the at-fault driver or your uninsured motorists coverage it could take six months or several years.
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