Who Pays for Lost Wages in a Car Accident in Oklahoma City?

You suffered a car accident, and now, in addition to medical and car repair costs, you must also take time off work to recover. Who pays for lost wages in a car accident in Oklahoma? The answer depends on who’s at fault, how much insurance each side carries, and other factors.

Our law office in Oklahoma City can help you figure out who’s responsible for your losses and calculate lost wages after a car accident.

Who Pays for Your Lost Wages?

As a rule, whoever violated safe driving rules and caused an accident is liable for any losses a victim suffers. In Oklahoma, as long as your share of responsibility is 49% or less, you can file a claim against the at-fault party (or parties). If you’re partially responsible, your payout would be lower proportionately to your degree of fault. 

The at-fault driver’s insurance company usually covers your damages, including missed wages and lost earning capacity. However, if you suffered a serious accident that caused long-term or permanent injuries, the value of your losses may exceed the other driver’s coverage limit. In this case, you may also file a personal injury lawsuit against the at-fault motorist. 

If you carry uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage, your insurance will cover eligible losses up to your policy’s cap. Finally, if the at-fault motorist was on duty and driving a commercial vehicle, their employer may also be liable.

Calculating Lost Income

After “Who pays for lost wages in a car accident?” the next question is usually, “How exactly do I calculate my losses?”

Summing up lost wages is simple enough after mild to moderate injuries that involve taking limited time off work. You simply multiply your average hourly wage by the number of work hours you missed. 

However, what if your injuries prevent you from working again or force you to switch to a lower-paying job? In this case, you could also claim compensation for lost earning capacity. Calculating the value of missed work opportunities is a lot more complex and depends on your age, qualifications, previous career history, and other factors. 

Proving Lost Income

When you file an insurance claim, you must present solid documentation proving your losses. You will need:

• Your employment records, including missed workdays
• Bank statements or pay stubs
• Past tax returns (for self-employed individuals)
• Medical records listing your injuries and confirming that you had to take time off work

If you’re negotiating a large settlement after a severe injury, your attorney may also recommend working with an economist or a vocational consultant who will help calculate long-term losses. 

Did You Lose Income Because of a Car Accident? Contact Us at Owens Law Office 

Did a car crash interfere with your ability to work? Are you wondering who pays for lost wages in a car accident? Contact our legal team at Owens Law Office. Our skilled attorneys can help you file a police report for a car accident, calculate your lost earnings, and negotiate a suitable settlement. 

Call 405-608-0708 or contact us online to schedule a consultation.