You've been seriously injured in a automobile or truck collision. You own a small business or are self-employed and work out of your home. Because of the injuries you are unable to work and your business has sufferred.
This unfortunate predicament creates an additional element of damages under Georgia law, over and above claims for pain and suffering and medical expenses.
The lost business earnings must be carefully proven, so that the defense attorney or insurance adjuster can not legitimately attack the numbers. This may require the assistance of a CPA or at least a bookkeeper who can analyze business records. It typically requires organizing and compairing the business profits, losses, expenses, taxes, etc. for several years. By comparing business earnings for several years, an average of earnings or profits can be established. This can be compared to the time frame when injuries have prevented you from working and thereby suffering a loss. This establishes a legal damage claim for lost earnings.
This element of damages is a frequent part of our Georgia law firm's representation in serious injury cases. A reminder: it is important to keep the business records, both before & after the accident so these damages can be proven.
Lost Business Earnings in Georgia Personal Injury Cases
March 2, 2011
