If your injuries permanently affect your ability to work, you may be entitled to compensation for diminished earning capacity – the difference between what you could have earned and what you can now earn.
Types of Income Loss You Can Claim
Lost income claims in head-on collision cases aren't limited to missed paychecks. You can claim compensation for lost wages (salary or hourly), lost overtime and bonuses, used vacation/sick days, lost business income (self-employed), and reduced future earning capacity.
- ✓Past lost wages (salary, hourly, tips)
- ✓Lost overtime and shift differentials
- ✓Lost bonuses and commissions
- ✓Used sick days and vacation time
- ✓Lost business income and opportunities
- ✓Reduced future earning capacity
Documenting Your Lost Income
Strong documentation is essential for lost wage claims. Your employer should provide a letter confirming your absence and pay rate. Pay stubs, tax returns, and employment contracts help establish your income level.
For future earning capacity claims, our attorneys work with vocational experts and economists to calculate the long-term financial impact of your head-on collision injuries.
- ✓Employer verification letter
- ✓Recent pay stubs
- ✓Tax returns (past 2-3 years)
- ✓Employment contracts and offer letters
- ✓Documentation of missed overtime/bonuses
- ✓Vocational expert assessment (future earnings)
Frequently Asked Questions
How are lost wages calculated?▼
Lost wages are calculated by multiplying your daily/hourly rate by the time missed from work. Include overtime, bonuses, and benefits. For irregular income (self-employed, seasonal), we average past earnings.
Can I claim lost wages if I was unemployed?▼
Yes, if you can show the injuries prevented you from accepting employment. Evidence might include a pending job offer, job search records, or established work history.
What is loss of earning capacity?▼
Loss of earning capacity compensates you for reduced ability to earn in the future due to permanent injuries. Economists calculate the present value of lost future earnings over your remaining work life.
Related Resources
→
Preserving Evidence After a Head-On Collision
Crucial evidence can disappear quickly after a head-on collision. Learn how to preserve photos, videos, witness information, and physical evidence for your claim.
head on collisions→
Statute of Limitations for Head-On Collision Claims in California
How long do you have to file a head-on collision lawsuit in California? Learn the statute of limitations deadlines and exceptions you need to know.
head on collisions→
How to Prove Fault in a Head-On Collision
What evidence do you need to prove fault in a head-on collision? Learn about the key types of proof that establish the other driver's liability.
head on collisions→
Stop Sign Violations in California: Legal Rights & Claims
Injured by a driver who ran a stop sign? Learn your legal rights, how to prove fault, and maximize your California car accident claim. Free consultation.
car accidents→
Insurance Bad Faith in Catastrophic Injury Claims California
Insurance company denying your catastrophic injury claim? Learn about bad faith tactics and how to fight back. Free consultation with California injury lawyers.
catastrophic injury→
Brain Injury Support Groups California - Peer Counseling
Find brain injury support groups in California. Learn how peer counseling aids recovery and strengthens your legal claim. Free consultation available.
brain injuryExplore Related Topics
Why Choose Hurt Advice?
💰
No Win, No Fee
You pay nothing unless we win your case.
🕐
24/7 Availability
We're here whenever you need us.
🏆
$100M+ Recovered
Proven track record of large settlements.
⚖️
25+ Years Experience
Expert attorneys specializing in head-on collisions.