In a personal injury claim, damages are the economic and personal losses caused by a defendant’s negligent actions. One of the most common types of damages involves loss of income. This can include lost wages for missed work, loss of earning power due to your injuries, and even loss of employment if you are unable to return to your current job. Figuring out how to prove loss of income if you’re self-employed in Louisiana personal injury claims can be a challenge.
Establishing proof of loss is essential to prevailing in any personal injury claim. For income-related losses, proof can be established through paycheck stubs, direct deposit records, W2 forms. etc. But what if you’re self-employed (or rely on cash tips for a significant amount of your income) and don’t have any of this documentation?
Here are some tips on how to document and prove your losses if you’re self-employed.
Evidence Required to Prove Loss of Income for Self-Employed in Louisiana Injury Claims
What type of evidence is required to establish loss of income in a Louisiana personal injury claim? Depending on the circumstances in your case, you may need to provide:
The more evidence you can provide, the stronger your case will be. If you’re having trouble recovering this evidence, get in touch with a New Orleans personal injury attorney as soon as possible. They have the experience and resources to gather the evidence you’ll need to prove loss of income if you’re self-employed.
Expert Tips for How to Prove Loss of Income If Self-Employed in Louisiana Personal Injury Cases
To ensure you’ll have the evidence you need to calculate your lost income if you’re self-employed, it’s important to keep detailed records of your work activities, income, and work-related expenses. Stay in regular contact with clients, suppliers, and other business associates in order to demonstrate business activity. Document any efforts to mitigate business losses by seeking alternative sources of income.
Frequently Asked Questions About Louisiana Personal Injury Claims
How long do I have to file a personal injury case?
The statute of limitations varies by state. In Louisiana, you only have one year from the date of your accident or the date you became aware of your injuries in which to file a personal injury claim. It’s important to consult with a personal injury attorney as soon as possible after an injury occurs to ensure that the claim is filed within the appropriate time frame.
What damages are available in a personal injury case?
Damages in a personal injury case can include medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and emotional distress, among others. The specific damages available will depend on the circumstances of the case.
How much is my personal injury case worth?
The value of a personal injury case depends on many factors, such as the severity of the injury, the extent of medical treatment required, and the impact on the victim’s quality of life. The advice of an experienced personal injury attorney can be beneficial in assessing the potential value of a case.
Do pre-existing conditions affect compensation in a personal injury claim?
A pre-existing condition does not necessarily prevent a person from filing a personal injury claim. However, it may complicate the case and affect the amount of damages awarded. An attorney can help assess the impact of a pre-existing condition on a case.
How long will it take to settle my claim?
The time it takes to settle a personal injury claim varies depending on the complexity of the case, the extent of the injuries, and whether the case is settled or tried in court. Some cases may settle in a few months, while others may take several years. It’s best to consult with a personal injury lawyer to understand the timeline for your specific case.
Seek Legal Assistance from a Knowledgeable Attorney Familiar with Self-Employment and Personal Injury Law
Self-employment can present many unique challenges when it comes to pursuing a personal injury claim in Louisiana. If you’re self-employed and were injured in an accident caused by the negligent acts of another, call Lambert Zainey Smith & Soso without delay. We’ve been protecting the rights of those injured in accidents throughout the state of Louisiana since the 1970s. Our team of experienced Louisiana personal injury attorneys possesses the skills and expertise to collect the evidence you’ll need to establish loss of income and other damages in a personal injury claim.
Contact Lambert Zainey online or call us at (800) 521-1750 as soon as possible after your accident to schedule a free, no-obligation initial consultation to discuss your case with a Louisiana personal injury attorney.