Motorcycle accidents can have devastating effects on a person’s life. Not only can they lead to physical injuries, but they can also cause financial difficulties. One of the most significant challenges that many individuals face after a motorcycle accident in New Hampshire is the loss of wages. When someone is unable to work due to their injuries, the loss of income can make an already stressful situation even more overwhelming. Understanding how to recover lost wages after a motorcycle accident can help ease some of the burden. At Tenn And Tenn, PA, we are here to guide you through the legal process and help you navigate the complexities of your case.
James J. Tenn, Jr.
Attorney
Mary Elizabeth Tenn
Attorney
John J. Tenn
Attorney
Working hard to obtain the best results possible for our clients and fighting to protect their rights.
The Impact of Motorcycle Accidents on Your Ability to Work
Motorcycle accidents are often more serious than car accidents because motorcycles offer less protection to the rider. When a motorcyclist is involved in a collision, they are more likely to suffer severe injuries such as broken bones, head trauma, or spinal cord injuries. These types of injuries often require a long recovery period. During this time, the injured person may be unable to return to work, either temporarily or permanently. This can result in a significant loss of income, making it difficult to cover daily expenses and medical bills.
In addition to physical injuries, the emotional and psychological effects of a motorcycle accident can also impact a person’s ability to work. Anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are common after traumatic events like motorcycle accidents. These conditions can make it difficult to focus or perform job duties, further contributing to lost wages.
Understanding Lost Wages After a Motorcycle Accident
When someone is injured in a motorcycle accident in New Hampshire and cannot work, they may be entitled to compensation for their lost wages. Lost wages refer to the income that a person would have earned had they not been injured and unable to work. This includes wages from a regular job, as well as overtime, bonuses, and other forms of compensation that the person would have received if they were able to continue working.
In order to recover lost wages, it is important to have documentation that shows how much income was lost due to the accident. This might include pay stubs, tax returns, or a letter from the employer. If the injured person is self-employed, they will need to provide evidence of their income before the accident, such as bank statements or business records. In some cases, a medical professional may need to provide a statement explaining why the injured person is unable to work.
Steps to Take After a Motorcycle Accident to Recover Lost Wages
If you have been injured in a motorcycle accident in New Hampshire, there are steps you can take to help recover lost wages. First, seek medical attention right away. Even if you do not feel seriously injured at the time, it is important to get checked out by a healthcare professional. Some injuries, such as whiplash or internal injuries, may not show symptoms immediately. A medical record of your injuries will be important when filing a claim for lost wages.
Next, report the accident to your employer. Your employer needs to know that you have been injured and that you are unable to work. They can provide documentation of your employment status and income, which will be necessary when filing a claim for lost wages.
It is also important to keep detailed records of your injuries and the impact they have on your ability to work. Keep track of all doctor’s appointments, treatments, and medications. If you are experiencing pain or difficulty with daily tasks, make a note of it. These records will help demonstrate how the accident has affected your ability to work and earn income.
Filing a Claim for Lost Wages After a Motorcycle Accident
To recover lost wages after a motorcycle accident in New Hampshire, you may need to file a claim with your insurance company or the at-fault driver’s insurance company. New Hampshire is a “fault” state, which means that the person responsible for the accident is also responsible for paying for damages, including lost wages. If the other driver is at fault, their insurance may cover your lost wages as part of the overall compensation for your injuries.
When filing a claim for lost wages, it is important to provide all necessary documentation to support your claim. This includes medical records, proof of income, and any other evidence that shows how the accident has affected your ability to work. An insurance company may try to dispute your claim or offer a lower settlement than what you are entitled to, so it is important to be prepared with thorough documentation.
In some cases, the insurance company may deny your claim for lost wages, or the at-fault driver may not have enough insurance to cover your losses. In these situations, you may need to file a lawsuit to recover the compensation you deserve. It is important to consult with a knowledgeable attorney who can help guide you through the legal process and ensure that your rights are protected.
What to Do if You Are Permanently Disabled After a Motorcycle Accident
In some cases, a motorcycle accident can result in permanent disability, making it impossible for the injured person to return to work. When this happens, the individual may be entitled to additional compensation beyond lost wages. Permanent disability compensation is designed to provide financial support to individuals who are no longer able to earn an income due to their injuries.
If you are permanently disabled as a result of a motorcycle accident, you may be entitled to long-term disability benefits through your employer’s insurance plan or through government programs such as Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). In addition, you may be able to recover compensation for future lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages through a personal injury lawsuit.
The Importance of Working with an Attorney
Recovering lost wages after a motorcycle accident in New Hampshire can be a complicated process, especially if you are dealing with serious injuries or a permanent disability. Insurance companies often try to minimize the amount they pay out in claims, and navigating the legal system can be overwhelming for someone who is already dealing with the physical and emotional aftermath of an accident.
Working with an experienced attorney can help ensure that you receive the full compensation you are entitled to for your lost wages. An attorney can help gather the necessary documentation, negotiate with the insurance company, and represent you in court if necessary. They can also help you understand your legal rights and options, giving you peace of mind during a difficult time.
Recovering Compensation for Future Lost Wages
In some cases, the injuries from a motorcycle accident may prevent a person from returning to work for an extended period. When this happens, the injured individual may be entitled to compensation for future lost wages. Future lost wages refer to the income that a person is expected to lose in the future as a result of their injuries. This can be a significant amount, especially if the person is unable to return to their previous job or career.
Calculating future lost wages can be complicated, as it involves estimating how much income the person would have earned if the accident had not occurred. Factors such as the person’s age, career, and earning potential are taken into account. In some cases, an witness may be called upon to testify about the injured person’s future earning capacity.
Recovering compensation for future lost wages may require filing a personal injury lawsuit. It is important to work with an attorney who has experience handling motorcycle accident cases and can help you navigate the legal process.
If you have been injured in a motorcycle accident in New Hampshire and are facing lost wages as a result, it is important to understand your legal options for recovering compensation. Whether you are temporarily unable to work or facing a permanent disability, you deserve to be compensated for the income you have lost due to the accident.
At Tenn And Tenn, PA, we understand the challenges that come with recovering from a motorcycle accident, and we are here to help you every step of the way. Our experienced attorneys can assist you in filing a claim for lost wages and ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve. Don’t let a motorcycle accident derail your financial stability. Contact Tenn And Tenn, PA today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how we can help you recover your lost wages and get your life back on track.