Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Consult a qualified attorney for advice about your situation.
Detailed Answer
When accident-related injuries force you out of work in Connecticut, you can pursue several avenues to recover lost wages. Each option depends on how and where the injury occurred, the type of insurance coverage in place, and the length of your disability. Below are the primary methods under Connecticut law.
1. Workers’ Compensation
If your injury arises out of and during the course of your employment, you likely qualify for workers’ compensation benefits. Connecticut law requires most employers to carry this insurance. Benefits include wage replacement of two-thirds of your average weekly earnings, up to the statutory maximum. Medical treatment and vocational rehabilitation may also be covered. For details, see Conn. Gen. Stat. § 31-275: cga.ct.gov/current/pub/chap_568.htm#Sec31-275.
2. Personal Injury Protection (PIP) Insurance
For auto accidents, Connecticut mandates Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage. PIP pays up to 80% of your lost earnings, with no dollar-limit per month, up to the policy’s overall cap (commonly $20,000 per accident). You file with your own insurer regardless of fault. See Conn. Gen. Stat. § 38a-336: cga.ct.gov/current/pub/chap_700c.htm#Sec38a-336.
3. Personal Injury Lawsuit Against a Negligent Party
If someone else’s negligence caused your accident—such as a careless driver or property owner—you can file a personal injury lawsuit. You may recover past and future lost wages as part of your “economic damages.” To succeed, you must prove duty, breach, causation, and damages. Connecticut’s general statute of limitations for personal injury is two years from the date of injury. See Conn. Gen. Stat. § 52-577: cga.ct.gov/current/pub/chap_925.htm#Sec52-577.
4. Short-Term and Long-Term Disability Insurance
If you purchased private disability insurance—either through your employer or individually—you may tap these policies. Short-term disability typically replaces a portion of wages for several weeks to months. Long-term disability covers extended absences, often until retirement age or policy-defined limits. Review your policy language and submit proof of disability promptly.
5. Social Security Disability Benefits
If your injuries cause a total disability lasting at least 12 months, you might qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI). These federal programs provide monthly benefits based on medical criteria and work history. Processing can take several months; apply early.
Helpful Hints
- Report your injury promptly to your employer and insurers.
- Gather medical records, pay stubs, and proof of lost hours.
- Understand claim deadlines: workers’ comp has a one-year notice requirement; personal injury suits have a two-year window.
- Document conversations with insurers and keep written confirmations.
- Consider consulting an attorney before settling large claims.