When you suffer a personal injury due to someone else’s negligence, the impact goes beyond physical pain and emotional distress. One significant consequence may be your *loss of earnings*—income you can no longer earn because of your injury. At The Jewkes Firm, we understand how debilitating financial setbacks can be during your recovery. That’s why we fight tirelessly to help injury victims in Georgia recover all damages rightfully owed to them, including losses related to lost wages.
Loss of earnings (sometimes called lost wages or lost income) refers to the income you lose as a direct result of your injury. This category of damages compensates for the money you would have earned if the accident had not happened. Loss of earnings can include several components:
Essentially, loss of earnings aims to place you back into the financial position you would have been had your injury never occurred.
This covers the wages, salary, or other income you lost from the moment of your injury up to your present recovery stage. Usually, it applies when you take unpaid time off or are unable to work because of medical treatment or disability caused by the accident.
To prove past loss of earnings, your attorney will gather:
If your injury results in permanent disability, a reduced ability to work, or forced career changes, you may claim future loss of earnings or diminished earning capacity. This is a more complex claim because it requires proving that your working life and income will be negatively affected going forward.
Factors considered include:
Sometimes you may lose not just wages but also benefits related to your employment like health insurance, retirement contributions, or paid time off. These can sometimes be included in loss of earnings claims depending on the case circumstances.
Calculating loss of earnings is a detailed process that takes into account your unique employment situation and injuries. There is no one-size-fits-all formula, but some commonly used steps include:
Loss of earnings claims often involve expert testimony—such as by economists or vocational specialists—to establish a fair dollar amount.
Money lost because of injury can cause serious hardship. You still have bills to pay, family to support, and everyday expenses, even if you can’t work. Recovering your lost earnings helps ease financial burdens so you can focus on healing.
Additionally, loss of earnings damages help discourage negligent behavior by holding at-fault parties accountable for the full extent of the harm caused.
At The Jewkes Firm, we ensure you pursue *all* valid claims, including past and future lost income, to protect your financial future.
Our experienced personal injury attorneys know Georgia law and the intricacies of loss of earnings claims. Here is how we support our clients:
If you or a loved one have suffered a personal injury in Georgia, don’t let lost income add to your burden. The experienced attorneys at The Jewkes Firm are here to help you understand your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve.
Call us today at (770) 771-5130 or fill out our online contact form for a free, no-obligation consultation. We work on a contingency fee basis—no recovery, no fee—so there’s no risk in having us fight for you.
Let us help you get back on your feet financially while you focus on recovery. Your loss of earnings claim matters, and we will stand by your side every step of the way.
Frequently Asked Questions About Loss of Earnings
Can I claim lost income if I’m self-employed?
Yes. You will need to provide detailed financial records—such as tax returns, invoices, and client contracts—to prove your lost earnings.
What if I’m able to work but with less capacity or pay after my injury?
You may be entitled to damages for diminished earning capacity, compensating for the reduction in your ability to earn as before.
How long do I have to file a claim for lost wages in Georgia?
The statute of limitations for personal injury claims in Georgia is generally two years from the date of the injury, so timely action is critical.
Will my lost wage claim include time off for doctor visits?
Typically, yes. Time spent attending necessary medical treatments due to your injury can be included as lost earnings.
The Jewkes Firm is well-versed in effectively challenging major insurance companies on your behalf to secure the highest settlement permissible by law. Our primary objective is to ensure your optimal recovery. It is only after this point that we assess the worth of your case.
The timeframe for filing an injury case, also known as the statute of limitations, can vary significantly. As per OCGA §9-3-33, you are granted a two-year period from the date of your injuries or the passing of a family member to initiate your personal injury claim.
There is no upfront cost associated with hiring a personal injury lawyer. Our fees are based on a percentage of your settlement, meaning you only pay if we successfully recover compensation. Our top priority is ensuring your well-being and helping you return to your normal life.
A personal injury lawyer aims to establish negligence and seek restitution for the harm caused by the liable party. Additionally, you may be entitled to compensation for funeral costs, medical expenses, and income lost if you are a family member of someone who died as a result of an injury.
As South Atlanta's most trusted personal injury firm, we understand that being injured can be a traumatic and life-changing event. We fight for our clients to ensure they receive the justice they deserve.
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The information you obtain at this site is not, nor is it intended to be, legal advice. You should consult an attorney for advice regarding your individual situation. Contacting us does not create an attorney-client relationship.