If you have been injured in a car crash and cannot work, it is fair and reasonable to seek compensation for lost wages, especially if someone else's negligence caused the crash. This situation can be particularly challenging if you own your own business or are self-employed. Unlike many of your friends and family, you may not have access to paid leave or a disability policy. In such cases, it is important to file a claim for lost wages as a self-employed individual.

Lost Wages for Self-Employed Workers

For most hourly or salaried workers, "lost wages" is a comparatively easy term to define and quantify. However, the definition of lost wages for self-employed workers is more difficult. Self-employed workers may be freelancers, independent contractors, or sole proprietors. After a car crash, they may have lost income, business, or goodwill from customers. Lost wages may take the form of:

• ·      Loss of upcoming or expected contracts or work.
• ·      Loss of current business or recent profits.
• ·      Loss of business reputation or goodwill of customers.

Further, serious injuries may involve a loss of earning capacity, loss of future earnings, or permanent disability.

Claim for Self-Employed Lost Wages

If you are injured in a car crash, you can make an insurance claim for lost wages. The amount of self-employed lost wages can be calculated by looking at the average income before the car crash or by proving lost business amounts. This can involve the submission of:

• ·      Pay stubs or invoices.
• ·      Past tax returns.
• ·      Contracts for independent contractor work.
• ·      Letters or emails regarding lost work.
• ·      Bank statements proving regular income.

Self-employed workers should be aware that insurance companies will be more skeptical of self-employed workers' claims for lost wages. They will likely demand a higher level of proof, but you should never fail to make a claim. An experienced personal injury attorney can help you submit a claim for all your losses.

If you've been injured in a car crash, Ackerman & Falcon will work to secure compensation for all your losses, including an insurance claim for lost wages. Our experienced attorneys are dedicated to fighting for you. Call us today at (703) 288-1400 or schedule a free consultation online.