If you are in the country illegally and injured in a car accident in Norfolk, you may be afraid to file a claim for damages with the negligent driver's insurance company. However, it is vital to understand that you may still be entitled to compensation for your injuries.
Retaining an experienced Norfolk car accident lawyer to pursue your claim and ensure your rights are protected is essential. Find answers to some common questions and concerns that illegal immigrants may have when filing a car crash claim in Virginia here.
What Rights Do Illegal Immigrants Have to File a Claim After a Norfolk Auto Crash?
Individuals in the United States illegally have the same rights as U.S. citizens to pursue a claim after a car accident in Virginia. Your immigration status should not affect your ability to seek compensation for your injuries. No one should ask about your immigration status when you file your claim with the insurance company or a lawsuit.
However, you may face unique challenges in pursuing your claim as an illegal immigrant. It is crucial to retain a skilled auto collision attorney in Norfolk who will understand these challenges and work to protect your rights.
Can You File a Claim If You Do Not Speak English?
Even if you do not speak English, you can still file a claim with the insurance company after a car crash. You can also file a lawsuit if the insurance company refuses to be reasonable or the statute of limitations to file your complaint will expire.
Your pleadings would have to be in English. However, a knowledgeable car crash lawyer can help you with the legal process and ensure all pleadings are in English.
What Types of Compensation Can You Recover?
An immigrant here illegally has the same rights to compensation as someone here legally. You may be entitled to these types of compensation:
- Medical expenses. You can recover the cost of medical treatment for your injuries, including hospital bills, doctor's fees, medication, and rehabilitation expenses.
- Lost wages. If you cannot work due to your injuries, you can seek compensation for the wages you lost while recovering.
- Pain and suffering. You may receive compensation for the physical pain and emotional distress you have suffered due to the auto collision.
- Property damage. If your car suffered damages in the accident, you could obtain compensation for the cost of repairs or the value of your vehicle if it was totaled. You can also receive reimbursement to cover the cost to repair or replace other property damaged in the crash.