When you are recovering from a car accident, healing should be your top priority, not worrying about how you will cover your bills. But for many people, being unable to work means an immediate strain on their finances. The stress of lost income can feel just as heavy as the physical pain. In Texas, you may be entitled to compensation for the income you have lost.
How lost wages work in a Texas car accident claim
After a car accident, your injuries might force you to take time off work, sometimes for days, weeks or even longer. The income you miss during this time is known as lost wages, and it can be a major part of your compensation claim in Texas.
Lost wages do not just include the time you spent recovering. They may also cover hours missed for medical appointments or therapy. If your injury limits your future ability to earn, you may also be able to claim loss of earning capacity.
To recover lost wages from an insurance company, you will need to show that the accident caused your injury, that the injury kept you from working, and that you lost income as a result. You may need:
- A doctor’s note recommending time off work
- Pay stubs or bank records showing your usual earnings
- A letter from your employer confirming your job duties and missed days
- Tax returns or client invoices if you are self-employed
These documents help show that your injury directly affected your ability to earn a living. With strong evidence, you give yourself the best chance at recovering full compensation.
Do not wait to protect your rights
Texas law generally gives you two years from the date of a car accident to file a personal injury claim. Delaying your case could make it harder to gather key evidence or track down witnesses. Acting early gives you a better chance of recovering what you have lost.
If a car crash has taken you off the job and left you struggling to make ends meet, the financial stress can feel overwhelming. A personal injury attorney can help you understand your rights, gather the evidence needed and fight for the wages you have earned.