When you’re injured in an accident, the severity can determine whether you’re able to carry on normal daily activities. Hospital stays, doctor visits and recovery can prevent plaintiffs from going to work.
Most Americans live paycheck-to-paycheck, and can’t afford to take extra time off work—if they have paid time off in the first place. A simple accident could result in falling behind on rent and bills. Fortunately, the Law Offices of Tim Misny are experienced in helping plaintiffs recover monetary compensation.
Legal remedies, like monetary damages, are designed to right a wrong or make a plaintiff “whole” again. That is, they return the plaintiff to the same position they were in before the accident, whenever possible. Therefore, lost income damages are allowed, because the plaintiff wouldn’t have missed work but for the accident.
Here’s how to prove how much income you lost as a result of your accident:
- W-2 forms: If your income stays consistent year-over-year, W-2 tax forms are an easy way to prove how much income you lost while you recovered from your injuries. These tax documents are also helpful when predicting future lost wages. Depending on how long you were out of work, your lawyer can easily divide your yearly salary to get the amount.
- Pay stubs: Pay stubs from before and after the accident can show the difference in your income. If you receive pay stubs (electronic or paper) from your employer, save them during the recovery period and present them to your lawyer.
- Wage verification: Your employer may also write a wage verification letter on your behalf. It should include your regular salary or wages, regular hours and how much work you have missed. Some employers have specific forms for this purpose.
- Self-employment documents: Finally, if you’re self-employed, documentation can be complicated. In addition to tax returns, 1099s, invoices, accounts receivable and business banking records, you may need to proffer more proof of income. Your lawyer will help you determine which items are necessary.
- Disability note from physician: No matter which type of income verification you use, you will need a note from your treating doctor, verifying that you are out of work due to your accident-related disability.
Proving lost income is an important step in recovering damages. The Law Offices of Tim Misny will guide you through the entire legal process, including documentation. Call us today for experienced legal assistance.
Discuss your case with an Ohio personal injury lawyer today
Have you been a victim of someone else’s negligence? When you’re injured, I’ll Make Them Pay!® Call my office at (800) 556-4769 so that I can evaluate your case right away. We may be able to recover compensation for your injuries, pain and suffering, lost wages and more.