Texans are used to truck accidents at this point. A truck accident can have a significant impact on your life, especially if you are unable to work due to the injuries sustained. In such cases, it is essential to understand your rights and options for recovering lost wages after a truck accident in Texas. Getting the right Texas truck accident attorneys to guide you through the process can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case.
This guide will provide all the necessary information to navigate recovering lost wages.
Types of Lost Wages
There are different types of lost wages that you may be entitled to after a truck accident in Texas:
-
Past Lost Wages: These refer to the income you have already lost due to being unable to work due to the accident.
-
Future Lost Wages: This refers to the income you are expected to lose due to your injuries.
-
Lost Earning Capacity: This refers to reducing your ability to earn a living after the accident if your injuries have resulted in a permanent disability or impairment.
According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), brake issues play a major role in truck accidents. If you have been injured in a truck accident in Texas, it is important to understand your rights and the types of compensation you may be entitled to.
Proving Lost Wages
To recover lost wages after a truck accident, you must provide evidence of your earnings before and after the accident. This can include:
-
Pay stubs and income statements from your employer
-
Tax returns
-
Doctor's notes stating that you are unable to work
-
Testimony from coworkers or supervisors attesting to your work hours and salary
Keeping track of all these documents and other relevant information is essential, as they will be crucial in proving your lost wages.
Calculating Lost Wages
Calculating lost wages can be a complex process, as it involves determining the amount of income you have lost and factoring in other elements, such as bonuses or commissions. It is best to seek professional help from an attorney specializing in personal injury cases. They can accurately calculate your lost wages and ensure that you receive fair compensation.
Time Limits for Filing a Claim
Texas has a statute of limitations – a time limit within which you must file a claim for recovering lost wages after a truck accident. In most cases, this limit is two years from the accident date. However, there are exceptions to this rule, such as if the injured person is a minor or if a government entity owned the truck involved in the accident. It is essential to consult with an attorney to determine the specific time limit for your case.
Other Factors to Consider
Other factors can affect your ability to recover lost wages after a truck accident in Texas:
-
Comparative Negligence: If it is determined that you were partially at fault for the accident, your compensation may be reduced according to your percentage of fault.
-
Workers' Compensation: If you were working at the time of the accident, you may also be entitled to benefits from workers' compensation, which can affect the amount of lost wages you can recover.
-
Non-Economic Damages: In addition to lost wages, you may also be entitled to compensation for pain and suffering, emotional distress, and other non-economic damages.
Final Wrap
Recovering lost wages after a truck accident in Texas can be complex. It is vital to seek professional help and gather all necessary evidence to receive fair compensation for your losses. Remember that time limits apply, so acting quickly and consulting with an attorney with experience handling truck accident cases is crucial.
