Some of the costs generated by a car wreck tend to be easy to calculate. People have medical bills for specific amounts and vehicle repair estimates. They may also have to consider their lost wages and earning potential.
A short-term leave of absence from work results in a simple-to-calculate loss of wages. However, protracted absences from work and long-term symptoms can affect a worker’s future earning potential. It can be difficult for those seeking compensation after a major wreck to accurately estimate the income consequences of a crash.
The three factors below may influence the total amount of compensation necessary for lost earning potential after a crash.
1. Indirect reputation damage
When employers consider workers for promotions and critical projects, their dedication to the company and recent job performance both influence the final decision. Employees who have missed a significant amount of work due to car crash injuries may lose out on advancement opportunities, sales leads and exciting projects.
Multiple or protracted absences tend to have a negative impact on career advancement opportunities and how employers view their workers. Even when there is a clear explanation for absences, the company’s opinion of a worker may shift due to their attendance issues.
2. Lasting functional limitations
The ongoing symptoms of car crash injuries can have a negative impact on job performance. Frequently, workers with functional limitations related to pain levels have to slow down or reduce the amount of strain by limiting how much they lift. Particularly for those in blue-collar or production-related professions, injury symptoms can affect productivity and result in a lower assessment of the worker’s job performance.
3. The collateral costs of career stagnation
Those with serious medical challenges are often grateful if they can retain their current employment. Unfortunately, they may stop trying to actively develop their careers.
They may lose out on higher wages, more prestigious job titles and generous employment benefits. Calculating the long-term economic impact of car crash injuries can be difficult, especially if workers expect career setbacks.
Professionals who have support while pursuing compensation may find it easier to calculate their long-term losses and hold the right party accountable. Lost wages and reduced earning potential are among the car crash expenses that people can often recover if they have the right support.
