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General information only. This site does not provide legal advice. Always consult a qualified solicitor.
In-depth guide · Last reviewed June 2026

Lost overtime in a work accident claim: how it is recovered

What counts as loss of earnings in a work accident claim?

Past and future; net of tax and NI; all remuneration — not just basic

Can you claim for lost overtime?

Yes — guaranteed and non-guaranteed; evidence required

How do you calculate lost overtime?

Average over the 3–12 months before injury; payslips; employer's records

What about non-guaranteed overtime?

Must show pattern and likelihood — Brazel v Harpur Trust guidance; regular non-guaranteed overtime is well-established recoverable loss

Lost commission and bonuses

Same approach — past pattern + likelihood

What if your employer stopped offering overtime while you were absent?

Employer cannot use their own breach to reduce a claim

What evidence do you need?

12 months payslips; bank statements; employer overtime records; team comparison evidence

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Where did the accident happen?

Pick the setting closest to your situation.

Sources

  1. : Hodgson v Trapp [1989] AC 807 (deductions from loss of earnings)
  2. Brazel v Harpur Trust [2022] UKSC 21
  3. Judicial College Guidelines, 17th edition

This guide is editorial information about UK law. It is not legal advice and does not create a solicitor–client relationship. For advice on your circumstances, speak to a regulated personal-injury solicitor.