Being involved in an accident and suffering an injury that leaves you unable to work can be devastating physically, emotionally, and financially. Whether you were involved in a car crash, workplace incident, or any other type of accident, losing out on income due to time taken off work to recover will only add stress and uncertainty to your life. Fortunately, there are several legal options available in New Jersey that allow you to recover lost wages when you can’t work after an accident. Keep reading and contact a Bergen County injury lawyer for legal advice and representation.
How Can I Recover Lost Wages if I Can’t Work Due to My Injuries?
1. Personal Injury Protection
Personal Injury Protection (PIP) is a form of no-fault insurance required under NJ state law. All New Jersey drivers are required to carry PIP for protection in case of an injury during a car accident. If your injury arose during an auto accident, you can recover lost wages through a PIP claim with your own provider, whether you were responsible for the accident or not.
2. Liability insurance claim
If your injury was caused by someone else’s negligence, like in a car accident or premises liability incident, you could file an insurance claim against the liable party. Because the other individual’s negligent or reckless behavior directly led to your ailment and forced you to take time off work, you can request compensation through an insurance settlement which can cover lost wages.
3. Personal injury lawsuit
If another individual or entity was responsible for your accident and injury you may be entitled to pursue a personal injury lawsuit against the responsible party. Through a personal injury lawsuit, you can seek compensation for not only medical expenses, property damage, and emotional distress, but also for lost wages and income you missed out on during recovery.
4. Workers’ compensation
If your injury occurred while you were at work or as a result of your job, workers’ compensation insurance is a great way to recover lost wages. Workers’ compensation provides medical benefits and wage reimbursement for employees who are injured on the job or during work-related activities.
Once you report the injury to your employer, they can submit a claim and you will receive benefits once it is approved. These benefits include at least a percentage of your lost wages.
5. Disability insurance
If you have short-term or long-term disability insurance through your job or a private policy, it can help replace lost wages. This type of insurance will generally cover a percentage of your income if you are unable to work due to an injury or illness.
There are many ways that you can recover compensation for lost wages after an accident and injury. It is essential that you stay aprised of your rights and legal options. Contact a skilled attorney at Feitlin, Feitlin, Karas & Gerson, LLC for more information today.
