The South Carolina Department of Public Safety (SCDPS) reports that an average of four people are hurt in motor vehicle collisions in the state on an hourly basis. Car accident victims need the maximum compensation. You may be wondering: Can I seek compensation for lost wages after a car crash? In South Carolina, the answer is “yes,” but you must be prepared to prove liability. In this article, our Charleston car accident lawyer highlights key things to know about recovering damages for lost wages after a crash in South Carolina.
You Have the Right to Seek Compensation for Lost Wages After a Crash in South Carolina
If you were hurt in a car accident in South Carolina, you have the right to seek financial compensation for your damages, including for any lost wages. Whether your injury caused you to miss work for a few days, several weeks, or permanently altered your ability to earn a living, you should not have to bear the financial burden alone. South Carolina is a fault-based auto accident liability state. The at-fault driver (or their insurance company) can be held legally responsible.
Loss of Income Can Include Diminished Earning Power
Notably, lost wages go beyond the money you missed during your initial recovery period. Many people experience a reduction in their long-term earning capacity after a serious motor vehicle accident. The specific damage is often known as diminished earning power. If your injuries prevent you from returning to your previous job or limit the number of hours you can work, you may be entitled to compensation for the future income you will no longer be able to earn.
An Overview of Evidence You Need to Prove Wage Loss Damages
As part of a car accident injury claim in South Carolina, you need to prove the value of your damages. Unfortunately, insurers fight hard to pay out as little as possible in settlement negotiations. If they can pay less, they will pay less. To successfully recover compensation for lost wages and diminished earning capacity, you must be prepared to present strong, well-organized evidence. Some of the most common types of documentation used to prove wage loss are:
- Pay Stubs and W-2 Forms: These documents show how much you were earning before the accident and provide a baseline to calculate your lost income.
- Employer Verification Letter: A letter from your employer confirming your time missed from work, your position, and your typical earnings helps validate your claim.
- Doctor’s Work Restrictions: A written statement from your doctor outlining any limitations on your ability to perform your job duties.
- Expert Testimony: In more complex cases, expert witnesses may be needed to assess how your injuries affect your future earning potential.
- Tax Returns: For self-employed individuals or independent contractors, past tax returns serve as crucial proof of average income prior to the accident.
Set Up a Free Case Review With Our Charleston Car Accident Lawyer Today
At Query Sauter & Associates, LLC, our Charleston auto accident attorney is standing by, ready to fight for your rights. If you have any questions about lost wages after a motor vehicle wreck, please do not hesitate to contact us for a free case review. From our Charleston law office, we fight for justice for victims and families throughout South Carolina.