Lost Wages in a Delaware Personal Injury Claim
If an injury caused by another party's negligence forced you out of work in Delaware, you can recover lost wages and future earning capacity as part of your claim. Here is exactly how to document, calculate, and recover your income losses.
For informational purposes only. Not legal advice. Consult a licensed attorney.
Modified comparative fault (51% bar)
Fault System
2 years
Filing Deadline
At-Fault
Auto System
What Lost Wages You Can Recover in Delaware
Past Lost Wages
All income you lost from the date of the accident through settlement or verdict — including salary, hourly wages, tips, commissions, bonuses, and self-employment income.
Future Lost Earnings
If your injury causes permanent or long-term disability affecting your ability to work, you can recover the present value of future income losses. Expert economic testimony is typically required.
Lost Business Income
Self-employed individuals and business owners can claim documented lost profits caused by their inability to work.
Benefits & PTO Used
Sick days, vacation days, and other benefits consumed due to your injury may be recoverable as lost wages.
No-Fault vs At-Fault in Delaware
Delaware Injury Law
Delaware applies modified comparative fault with a 51% bar, so plaintiffs bearing majority fault cannot recover. Delaware mandates PIP coverage in auto policies, creating a hybrid system where initial medical costs are covered no-fault before fault-based tort claims proceed. The statute of limitations is 2 years for most personal injury cases. Delaware's small size results in a concentrated court system, with Superior Court handling most personal injury jury trials. The state's large corporate presence and favorable business laws mean product liability cases against corporations incorporated in Delaware are common. Delaware has no general cap on compensatory damages. Medical malpractice cases are subject to mandatory mediation before trial in some circumstances. Punitive damages are available for willful or wanton misconduct, with no statutory cap. Government tort claims require specific notice procedures under the State Tort Claims Act, with more limited recovery options against public entities.