Being unable to work after a car accident can be stressful and overwhelming. Not only are you dealing with pain and the recovery process, but you are probably also worried about paying your bills and supporting yourself and your family. In New Jersey, you have several legal options to recover lost income and other damages if you can’t work after a car accident. To learn about your rights and options, continue reading below and speak with a knowledgeable New Jersey auto accident lawyer to set up your free consultation today.
What Does “Lost Wages” Mean?
Lost wages are the income that you would have earned if you had not been injured and forced to take time off work. As an employee, lost wages can include your hourly wages, salary, overtime, tips, bonuses, commissions, and any income opportunities that you missed out on during the recovery period. In addition, if you had to use paid time off, like sick days or vacation days, the value of those benefits can also be counted as lost wages.
What Are My Options if I Can’t Work After a Car Accident in NJ?
If you can’t work for a period of time after being involved in a car accident, understanding the various ways you can recover compensation for your lost wages is imperative in protecting your financial interests. Below are some of the most common ways to be reimbursed for your losses.
- PIP benefits: Because New Jersey is a no-fault accident state, your own car insurance policy generally pays for medical expenses and costs related to your injury through PIP (Personal Injury Protection). This includes lost wages, regardless of who caused the accident.
- Lawsuit against the at-fault driver: If your injuries are considered serious under NJ law or your expenses exceed your policy coverage, you may be able to sue the negligent driver. A lawsuit allows you to recover lost wages, lost future income, reduced earning capacity, and other damages like pain and suffering or emotional distress.
- State disability benefits: You may be able to qualify for New Jersey Temporary Disability Insurance (TDI) if you are unable to work because of your injuries. This program can replace part of your wages if your injury is unrelated to your job.
- Workers’ compensation: If your injury is related to your job, you can pursue compensation through workers’ comp, a form of no-fault insurance provided through your employer. If the accident happened while you were performing job duties, you could recover wage replacement benefits through this insurance.
If your injuries prevent you from working on a short or long-term basis, it is crucial that you understand your options to recover lost wages and compensation for a diminished future earning capacity. To learn more, work with a skilled personal injury attorney during your case.
