You may miss out on work as you recover from the injuries you sustained in a car crash, and the financial stress can add to an already difficult situation. Fortunately, you may be entitled to compensation for the missed income.
You can seek lost wages, among other damages, from the at-fault party’s insurance or through your coverage. Here’s what you need to do to improve your chances of recovering what you deserve.
Seek immediate medical attention
See a doctor right away after a crash; your health comes first. Some injuries may not show symptoms immediately and could worsen if you delay seeking medical care. Additionally, your medical records link your injuries to the accident, which is crucial when pursuing lost wages. Demonstrating why you cannot work by providing the necessary medical evidence also helps your case.
Gather supporting evidence
Beyond medical evidence, you’ll need proof of your earnings before the crash to substantiate your claim. Recent pay stubs, tax returns and bank statements can help establish this. A letter from your employer can also come in handy.
If you’re self-employed, it may be necessary to provide documents like invoices, contracts and profit-and-loss statements.
Keep track of all communication
Remember to save any correspondence with insurance adjusters related to your case. If your claim is denied or undervalued, having a record of your efforts and what transpired can be helpful if you need to escalate the issue.
Understand your legal rights
Maryland’s strict contributory negligence laws make it more challenging to claim damages after a car crash than in many other states. For instance, you could miss out on compensation if the insurance company argues you were even slightly responsible for the accident. This is why it helps to understand your legal rights and options.
Reaching out for qualified guidance can help you navigate the intricacies of car accident claims and ensure you are not unfairly treated by insurance companies or the legal system.