Immigrants come to the United States for a better life. According to the latest data from Pew Research Center, in 2017, there were 10.5 million unauthorized immigrants in the US. Of the 50 states, 6 of them accounted for 57% of illegal immigrants, and not surprisingly, Texas was one of those 6 states with the highest concentration of undocumented immigrants. So, what does this mean for personal injury claims?
Personal injury accidents happen to people regardless of their immigration status. An illegal immigrant is just as likely to get injured in a car accident, a pedestrian accident, a bicycle accident, a slip and fall accident, or any other type of accident as a US citizen.
When Illegal Immigrants Are Injured
A large percentage of undocumented immigrants who are in the US are working. Many of them work long hours to provide for their families, and an injury can stop them from providing for their dependents. When an illegal immigrant is injured, they will often go to the hospital to treat their injuries. Otherwise, they run the risk of bleeding out, infection, or even death.
The issue is that many undocumented immigrants who have been injured in accidents are afraid to sue the at-fault party because they fear removal proceedings (deportation). The truth of the matter is that injured parties have the right to file a personal injury claim in Texas, regardless of immigration status – illegal immigrants have the same rights to sue as US citizens.
If you’re an undocumented immigrant who is afraid to file a personal injury claim because you are in the US illegally, we can help you. And if you’re afraid that the insurance company or the other side’s attorney will threaten to report you to the authorities if you sue, that is unethical behavior that is frowned upon.
To learn more about your legal rights regarding personal injury claims as an undocumented immigrant, contact our Plano personal injury firm!