What to Do If You Lose Your Job Due to a Personal Injury in Alberta

Suffering a personal injury can be life-altering, not just physically and emotionally, but financially as well. For many Albertans, one of the most distressing consequences of a serious injury is the inability to continue working. Whether your injury occurred in a motor vehicle accident, a slip and fall, or another incident caused by someone else’s negligence, losing your job due to injury raises important legal questions.

In this blog, we outline what you need to know if you’ve lost employment due to a personal injury in Calgary, including your rights under Alberta law and the steps you can take to protect your financial future.

Can You Claim Compensation for Lost Income?

Yes. Under Alberta’s personal injury laws, you may be entitled to compensation for both past lost wages and future loss of earning capacity. These claims are typically part of a broader personal injury lawsuit and are based on medical documentation, employment records, and expert assessments.

• Past income loss includes wages, salary, bonuses, and commissions you missed due to being off work.

• Future income loss applies if your injury prevents you from returning to your previous job or limits your ability to earn in the future.

To support these claims, you’ll need documentation such as medical reports, employer letters, tax returns, and financial statements.

What If Your Injury Happened at Work?

If your injury occurred while on the job, Alberta’s Workers’ Compensation Board (WCB) may provide benefits for lost income, medical expenses, and rehabilitation. However, WCB coverage can limit your ability to sue your employer directly. Exceptions exist, for example, if the at-fault party is not covered by WCB or if your employer is exempt from the program.

If your workplace injury isn’t covered by WCB, or if you believe your compensation is insufficient, you should speak with a personal injury lawyer to explore additional legal options.

Employment Rights After Injury

Under the Alberta Human Rights Act, employers are required to accommodate employees with disabilities, including those recovering from injuries, to the point of undue hardship. This may include modified duties, flexible schedules, or temporary leave. If you were terminated without proper accommodation, you may have grounds for a human rights complaint or wrongful dismissal claim.

The Importance of Relying on a Personal Injury Lawyer

Navigating a personal injury claim, especially one involving employment loss, can be complex. A qualified personal injury lawyer can:

• Assess the full financial impact of your injury.

• Determine whether you can claim lost wages or future earning capacity.

• Handle negotiations with insurance companies.

• Ensure your rights are protected under Alberta law.

• Represent you in court if necessary.

Legal representation is especially important when dealing with insurers who may undervalue your claim or dispute liability. A lawyer can help you build a strong case backed by evidence and expert testimony.

Your Trusted Personal Injury Lawyer in Calgary

If you’ve lost your job due to a personal injury and are unsure of your legal options, Blain Legal is here to help. With over 40 years of experience serving Calgary and surrounding areas, our team provides trusted legal support for injury victims facing financial uncertainty. We’ll guide you through the claims process and fight for the compensation you deserve. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and take the first step toward recovery.