Florida is home to a vibrant immigrant community. Unfortunately, when undocumented residents are injured in car accidents, slip and falls, or workplace incidents, they often suffer in silence. They...
Florida is home to a vibrant immigrant community. Unfortunately, when undocumented residents are injured in car accidents, slip and falls, or workplace incidents, they often suffer in silence. They fear that filing a claim will put a target on their back for deportation. This is a misconception that insurance companies are happy to exploit. The truth is, Florida's civil justice system is open to everyone.
Equal Protection Under Civil Law
The courts have ruled that if you are hurt by someone else's negligence, you are entitled to compensation regardless of your legal status. A drunk driver is not 'less guilty' just because the victim is undocumented. You can recover damages for medical bills, pain and suffering, and disability.
The Challenge of Lost Wages
Recovering lost wages can be the trickiest part of these cases. Defense lawyers may argue that since you aren't legally authorized to work in the US, you can't claim lost future earnings. However, Florida courts have allowed recovery for lost wages in many situations, especially if you can prove a history of earnings. We know how to navigate these arguments.
Confidentiality is Key
Attorney-client privilege is absolute. When you talk to us, your status is a secret we keep. We also fight to keep your immigration status out of the courtroom. In many cases, we file motions to prevent the defense from even mentioning your status to the jury, arguing it is 'prejudicial' and irrelevant to the facts of the accident.
Don't Sign Anything
Insurance adjusters might try to scare you into signing a low settlement by hinting at your status. Never sign anything without a lawyer. Once you settle, you can't go back for more.
Contact Emas Law Group Today
You contribute to our community, and you deserve the law's protection. Do not let fear prevent you from getting the medical care and financial support you need. Emas Law Group is a safe harbor for all victims of negligence.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will the police ask for my papers at a crash scene?
They might ask for a driver's license. If you don't have one, you might get a ticket for driving without a license, but that does not prevent you from suing the other driver for hitting you.
Can I get money for pain and suffering?
Yes. Pain and suffering damages are fully recoverable regardless of immigration status.
Do you have Spanish-speaking staff?
Yes, our entire team is bilingual and culturally sensitive to the needs of the immigrant community.