1) Check Your Auto Insurance Coverage

You will be eligible to file a lost wages claim if:

• You carry personal injury protection (PIP). This policy, which many refer to as "no-fault insurance," will cover you for lost wages―up, of course, to your policy's limits―due to car accident injuries. Though it is only required in certain states, many other states do offer it as optional protection.

• You're injured in a car accident due to another driver's negligence. You would then be able to submit a lost wages claim through the guilty driver's bodily injury liability coverage. You would not be covered, however, if you were found to be at fault for the accident.

2) Gather Evidence to Support Your Lost Wages Claim

Before filing the claim, be sure to have:

• A letter from your employer, on company stationary with the company's letterhead, documenting that you did indeed miss work due to injury, and the amount of income you lost.

• Proof from your physician or providing medical center detailing your car accident injuries. Some insurance companies may provide its own medical authorization form.

• A copy of the police report.

NOTE: If you're self-employed or work only on commission (such as a real estate agent), you, instead of an employer's letter, will need to submit past tax return statements.

3) Submit the Lost Wages Claim

Depending on the provider, you may be able to do this online or by phone.

The car insurance company may request additional information. In some cases this may involve requesting an interview with your boss or manager, or asking permission to review your current medical records or even your entire medical history. Don't take offense. It's nothing personal. For some car insurance companies this is merely standard procedure.

4) Wait For the Lost Wages Settlement

Keep in mind that your lost wage compensation will not be the entire amount. Depending on your state, compensation is usually limited to 80% to 85% of your total lost income. Your policy and your health situation will dictate how long you'll be compensated for. If you face long-term recovery, you may, depending on your policy, be covered for up to three years if it is applicable in your case.

If you don't agree with the settlement amount, you may want to consider hiring a personal injury lawyer.

Additional Car Insurance Information

Need help in understanding comprehensive coverage? Are you unsure of your state's liability insurance requirements? For answers to all of your insurance questions visit our Insurance Center.

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