Accident as an Undocumented Immigrant: What to Do

Having a car or work accident is a terrible experience for anyone – and even more so if you are an undocumented immigrant. Don’t let anxiety, pressure, pain, and, above all, fear overtake you the moment an accident happens. 

Bader Scott Injury Lawyers can help and protect you regardless of your legal situation. Do not suffer – ask for help; you have rights that cannot be violated. 

What should you do when you are in a car accident and are an undocumented immigrant? What should you do when you are in an accident at work and are an undocumented immigrant? Continue reading to find out more. 

You Have Legal Rights as an Undocumented Immigrant Hurt in an Accident

Many people are unaware of the possibility of seeking compensation when they are injured in an accident at work. Even if the person hurt in the accident is an undocumented immigrant, the laws are still enforced, and these are in place to protect all U.S. residents regardless of their immigration status. 

There are thousands of undocumented immigrants working across the country. Daily work tasks may be surrounded by dangerous elements that can put their lives at risk, such as heavy equipment, electric tools, and other circumstances. 

If you’re an undocumented immigrant, depending on your job, you may qualify for workers’ compensation benefits from your employer. You can also file a civil claim or lawsuit to recover what you need. 

For a free legal consultation, call (404) 888-8888

Workers’ Compensation FAQs

Georgia Uses Workers’ Compensation Insurance for Workplace Accidents

It’s important to understand how employees receive compensation after on-the-job accidents in Georgia. Typically, employees cannot sue their employers. This regulation applies to both documented and undocumented workers. 

Instead, most employees use the workers’ compensation system to provide benefits to injured employees. Many businesses with three or more employees must carry workers’ compensation insurance, which can cover an employee’s medical expenses and a portion of their lost wages.

Workers’ Compensation in Georgia for Undocumented Workers

Many people worry that, just because they are in the U.S. without proper documentation, they cannot seek compensation after they get hurt. However, the laws in Georgia are in favor of allowing you to get damages to cover your losses. 

Employers must offer the best safety conditions to employees. If you are injured, and you don’t have legal status, and it was not your fault, you have rights.

Complete a Free Case Evaluation form now

What Should You Do When You Are in an Accident at Work as an Undocumented Immigrant?

Do you think that because you are undocumented, you have no rights? Bader Scott Injury Lawyers can tell you that is totally wrong. Do not fear or waste more time. An undocumented immigrant has the right to request compensation for their work-related injuries.

If you suffered an accident at work and are an undocumented immigrant, consider talking with a lawyer to defend your rights. If you do not talk to a lawyer, you risk paying medical expenses yourself and being unable to work. 

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What to Do When You Are in a Car Accident and Are an Undocumented Immigrant

You can choose to remain silent and not attract attention after having a car accident. Keep in mind that the police are strictly prohibited from seeking judicial documents to obtain information about the legal status of people who file a claim for damages or injuries.

In case of an accident, it is important that you are not overwhelmed by fear. Consider contacting a car accident lawyer so they can advise you on the steps you must take to claim fair compensation for your injuries. Do not allow your rights to be violated for fear of being deported. 

Know Your Rights as an Undocumented Immigrant

By law, every legal or non-legal citizen in the country has the right to take legal action.  

Sometimes, many organizations and insurance companies try to take advantage of undocumented immigrants’ situations because they think they have less of a chance to defend their rights. But, keep in mind that Bader Scott Injury Lawyers helps and represents those injured in car accidents, even when the person involved is undocumented.

Do not fear for your status! Do not be afraid to file a claim. Insurance companies cannot deny benefits to undocumented immigrants who do not have social security numbers.

“The immigration status of a person should not be used as evidence or investigation in the case of a civil suit for personal injury or wrongful death.”

La Opinion Newspaper

In short, when you consult and hire an injury lawyer, you have the right to necessary and relevant information. Experienced lawyers, such as those who are part of the Bader Scott Injury Lawyers team, will always ensure your rights and maintain your privacy.

What Steps Should I Follow After an Accident?

In general, many undocumented immigrants who suffer a car accident or work accident prefer to leave the scene because of their legal status. Do not do that!

Leaving the scene of an accident could lead to serious criminal charges. The police may accuse you of a hit-and-run accident if you leave a collision scene, for example. Instead, take the following steps to put yourself in a good position to pursue damages:  

Collect Evidence About What Happened

Staying at the scene of your accident gives you a chance to collect evidence that your lawyer can use. Make sure you collect photos of the accident scene and your injuries. You may also get contact information from witnesses who saw what happened. 

Report the Accident to the Proper Authorities

It’s important to create a report that your accident occurred if you wish to secure compensation for your losses. If you got hurt at work, you may need to tell your boss or manager. Ensure you get a copy of any report they create about the accident.

Creating a report after a motor vehicle accident requires you to contact the police. Police officers file an official report after visiting the scene of the accident and determining what happened. 

Get Legal Help from a Law Firm You Can Trust

You do not have to go through the process of seeking compensation on your own. A lawyer can step in to review your situation and offer guidance about what to do and say after the accident. Our team understands your situation and focuses on your needs. 

Seek Medical Care for Your Injuries

Ensure that you get medical care from healthcare professionals if you got hurt in an accident. Getting treatment creates a paper trail that shows that the accident caused your injuries. This kind of documentation matters after both car accidents and workplace accidents. 

Things to Avoid After an Accident in Atlanta

There are some actions you should avoid if you got hurt in an accident in Atlanta as an undocumented worker. Make sure that you offer no details about your immigration status to any involved party. Police officers should not legally ask you about your status when they arrive to assist you after a collision, and you should not volunteer the information.

It’s also recommended that you do not take any blame for what happened. Admitting fault for the accident can impact your ability to secure compensation. Finally, do not accept a settlement from the insurance company without allowing a lawyer to review it to make sure it covers your losses fairly. 

What Benefits Come from Claiming Compensation?

As noted, your legal status will never prohibit you from receiving compensation. These are some of the things you might be able to receive if your case is successful:

•     Medical treatment
•     Reimbursement for the cost of procedures and rehabilitation
•     Lost work and personal opportunities
•     Wage loss due to inability to work

In summary, if you are an undocumented immigrant and suffered injuries due to negligence, consult our team to get the compensation you deserve.

Speak to Us About Your Case Today

You can reach out to Bader Scott Injury Lawyers for help after an accident in Atlanta. We care about you, not your immigration status. Speak to our team to learn more. We also have Spanish-speaking members on staff ready to help you.

Call or text (404) 888-8888 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form