Pribanic & Pribanic Explains How Lost Wages Are Recovered in Personal Injury Claims

Pittsburgh is a vibrant city known for its rich history, diverse culture, and strong community spirit. From the iconic steel bridges to the passionate sports fans, Pittsburgh offers a unique blend of tradition and modernity.

But, like any other urban area, accidents can happen, leading to personal injuries that disrupt lives. When such unfortunate events occur, it is important to understand how lost wages can be recovered through personal injury claims.

Founded in 1984 by Victor H. Pribanic, Pribanic & Pribanic is a respected law firm based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. With over 100 years of combined legal experience, Pittsburgh personal injury lawyers have built a reputation for advocating on behalf of individuals who have suffered personal injuries due to accidents, negligence, or misconduct.

The team includes seasoned attorneys like Jeffrey A. Pribanic and Ernest J. Pribanic, who specialize in various aspects of personal injury law, including workers' compensation and medical malpractice.

Understanding Lost Wages in Personal Injury Claims

When an individual is injured due to someone else's negligence, the impact extends beyond physical pain. One significant consequence is the inability to work, leading to lost wages. Lost wages refer to the income a person would have earned had they not been injured. This can include:

• Regular earnings: Salaries or hourly wages.
• Overtime pay: Additional earnings from working beyond regular hours.
• Bonuses and commissions: Performance-based income.
• Benefits: Such as paid time off or retirement contributions.

Recovering these lost wages is a vital component of a personal injury claim, ensuring that the injured party is compensated for the financial hardships incurred during their recovery.

How Pribanic & Pribanic Assists in Recovering Lost Wages

Pribanic & Pribanic employ a systematic approach to help clients recover lost wages:

1. Comprehensive Documentation: The firm gathers all necessary documents to substantiate the claim for lost wages. This includes medical records, employment records, pay stubs, and any other relevant paperwork that demonstrates the income lost due to the injury.
2. Expert Testimonies: In some cases, the firm may consult with medical professionals or vocational experts to provide testimony regarding the extent of the injury and its impact on the individual's ability to work.
3. Negotiation with Insurance Companies: Insurance companies often attempt to minimize payouts. Pribanic & Pribanic leverage their extensive experience to negotiate fair settlements that adequately cover lost wages and other damages.
4. Litigation if Necessary: If a fair settlement cannot be reached, the firm is prepared to take the case to trial, advocating fiercely for their client's right to compensation.

How Lost Wages Are Calculated

There are different ways to calculate lost wages depending on your job and situation:

• Actual Earnings Method: This uses your actual paychecks, including salary, hourly wages, overtime, bonuses, and benefits, to calculate what you lost.
• Average Earnings Method: If you have irregular income, like commissions or tips, an average of your earnings over a certain time period is used.
• Future Earnings Loss: For long-term injuries, experts estimate how much income you may lose in the future, based on your work history and career prospects.
• Self-Employed Method: For people who run their own business, lost wages are calculated using tax returns, business records, and profit and loss statements.

Key Takeaways

• Lost wages are a significant aspect of personal injury claims and can be recovered with proper legal representation.
• Pribanic & Pribanic utilize a thorough approach, including documentation, expert testimonies, and negotiation, to secure lost wage compensation.
• The firm has a history of achieving favorable outcomes for clients, ensuring they are not financially burdened due to injuries caused by others.
• Choosing Pribanic & Pribanic provides access to experienced attorneys dedicated to fighting for your rights.