“No work, no pay.” What happens when you were involved in a car accident and suffered an injury which stops you from returning to work? For instance, you perform your duties away from the principal place of business. This means you have to travel and personally meet your clients. However, if your leg was injured, it would be difficult for you to do your job.
What can Kentucky accident victims do about lost wages?
Serious injuries can be a threat to your employment. These can devastate your professional life and the lives of your family. You won’t be able to work because of your poor condition, doctor’s appointment and court appearances. You’ve missed several days at work. This can mean lost wages that would have supported you and your family. The good news is Kentucky law allows injured victims to receive compensation for several types of damages, losses and injuries.
Lost wages and future earning ability are included in the damages recoverable under Kentucky personal injury law. You are entitled to compensation even if you have missed a number of days or weeks at work because of an accident. The at-fault party is responsible for compensating the victim. Unfortunately, this is compensation that is received when the case is settled or a jury returns a verdict. This doesn’t help you now while you are off work and the bills are piling up. For immediate payment, you may look to your no-fault or PIP benefits from your car insurance. This will be the first place you should look if you don’t have any disability benefits from your job. Under the Kentucky PIP law, you are eligible for 80% of your lost wages but only up to $200 per week.
Check with your insurance agent about your coverage before it’s too late
There is nothing that can be done to change your insurance coverage after you have been in the accident. Speak with your insurance agent about your current coverage. If you don’t have what is called Added Reparations Benefits, you might want to add that to your coverage. You can raise your weekly lost wage payment up to $1,000 a week with very little additional premium. You should also talk to your employer or insurance agent about getting a disability policy. This will pay lost wages regardless of how you’re injured.
If you or your loved ones were injured in an accident and were not able to return to work, you should consult a Kentucky accident attorney. An attorney can ensure you are fully compensated for all lost earnings. Time does not heal your injuries, pain or suffering, it is what you do with the time that does. Seek legal advice as soon as possible and get the compensation you deserve.