How To Get Compensation For Lost Wages After A Car Accident In Buffalo, New York

In the wake of a car accident, the physical injuries sustained are often accompanied by financial strain due to lost wages. Many victims find themselves unable to work, either temporarily or, in more severe cases, permanently. At the Dietrich Law Firm P.C. in Buffalo, New York, we recognize the distress this causes. We are committed to helping you navigate the path to securing compensation for your lost wages. Below are essential steps and considerations for recovering lost income after a car accident.

Understanding Your Rights Under New York’s No-Fault Insurance

Under New York’s no-fault insurance system, individuals involved in car accidents are entitled to certain benefits, regardless of who was at fault. These benefits include coverage for medical expenses and a portion of your lost earnings.

Filing a Claim for No-Fault Benefits

You must promptly file a no-fault application with your insurance provider to claim these benefits. It’s crucial to include all necessary documentation, such as a note from your doctor indicating your inability to work and proof of your earnings. This documentation can include pay stubs, tax returns, or a letter from your employer detailing your salary and the work days missed due to the accident.

Seeking Additional Compensation

In instances where the no-fault insurance benefits do not fully cover your lost wages or if your injuries meet the “serious injury” threshold defined by New York law, you may pursue further compensation. This can involve filing a claim against the at-fault driver’s insurance or, if necessary, initiating a personal injury lawsuit.

Proving Lost Wages

To successfully claim compensation for lost wages beyond the no-fault system, you must provide comprehensive evidence of your lost income and the impact of your injuries on your ability to work. This may include:

1. Detailed medical records and expert testimony to help prove your injuries’ extent and duration.
2. Documentation of your income and employment benefits affected by your absence from work.
3. An analysis of your future earning capacity if your injuries have led to permanent disability or a need for a career change.

Legal Representation

Navigating the complexities of insurance claims and litigation to recover lost wages requires expertise and strategic legal action. An experienced personal injury attorney can offer invaluable assistance in this process. Our team at the Dietrich Law Firm P.C. can help gather and present evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and, if necessary, represent your interests in court to ensure you receive the maximum compensation possible.

Losing income due to a car accident can exacerbate a challenging situation, leaving you worried about financial stability. However, you can mitigate these financial losses by understanding your rights under New York’s no-fault insurance and exploring all avenues for compensation. At the Dietrich Law Firm P.C., we’re dedicated to supporting accident victims in Buffalo, New York, through every step of this journey, ensuring they receive the compensation they need to secure their financial future. Remember, you don’t have to face this process alone; our experienced legal team is here to guide and advocate for you.