In North Carolina, you recover lost wages by proving the other driver’s fault, documenting your time missed and income, and linking your work loss to your accident injuries with medical support. Start by notifying insurance, gathering pay and tax records, and getting doctor work-restriction notes; if settlement fails, file a lawsuit within the three-year deadline. Medical and government liens must be resolved before money is disbursed.
You want to know how, in North Carolina, you can recover lost wages after a crash. As a backseat passenger, you’re looking for the steps to claim wage loss from the at‑fault driver’s insurer (or your own UM/UIM coverage, if needed), what proof you need, and the timing to protect your rights. The question is focused on whether you can get paid for missed work and how to do it efficiently.
Under North Carolina law, an injured person can recover wage loss caused by another’s negligence if they show: (1) the other driver’s fault, (2) medical causation tying the injuries to the inability to work, and (3) proof of actual income lost. Claims are typically presented to the liability insurer first; if unresolved, suit is filed in the General Court of Justice. A three-year statute of limitations generally applies to personal injury claims. Valid medical and government reimbursement claims must be addressed from any settlement before funds are released.
Apply the Rule to the Facts: As a backseat passenger, liability generally points to the at‑fault driver, which supports your wage claim. You’ll strengthen causation by getting your ER records and follow‑up doctor notes documenting work restrictions. Prove the amount with pay stubs or tax returns and an employer letter confirming dates missed. With no health insurance, expect provider liens; your attorney can resolve them within statutory limits before disbursing any settlement.
To recover lost wages in North Carolina, prove the other driver’s fault, link your injuries to your time off with doctor notes, and document your income loss with employer and tax records. Notify insurers promptly, preserve any UM/UIM claim, and file suit within three years if needed. Before funds are released, valid medical and government liens must be resolved. Next step: assemble your medical records, wage proof, and a doctor’s work‑restriction note, then submit a complete demand to the insurer.
If you're dealing with missed paychecks after a car crash and need help documenting wage loss, negotiating with insurers, and resolving liens, our firm has experienced attorneys who can help you understand your options and timelines. Call us today to get started.
Disclaimer: This article provides general information about North Carolina law based on the single question stated above. It is not legal advice for your specific situation and does not create an attorney-client relationship. Laws, procedures, and local practice can change and may vary by county. If you have a deadline, act promptly and speak with a licensed North Carolina attorney.