California Law Makes It Easier for Undocumented Immigrants to Win Lost Wages

A new California law is making it easier for undocumented immigrants to receive payouts for their personal injury cases. Prior to this law’s passage, undocumented immigrants’ claims of lost wages in personal injury cases were based on the wages of their home country. This meant that the lost wages awarded were significantly less than other comparable cases of American citizens.

While this new law brings more equality to personal injury plaintiffs, it will also cost the insurance injury millions of dollars in additional payouts. Despite this, defense counsel can no longer inquire into the citizenship of a plaintiff, which means that more undocumented immigrants may come forwards to collect damages in their cases.

Steps in a Personal Injury Case

While most personal injury cases end up settling, there are many steps in the process. First, a plaintiff must meet with an attorney and discuss their goals. Second, the attorney must file a complaint in court. Third, there must be some investigation and the discovery process. Next there may be a resolution based on the outcome of the investigation and discovery. If no settlement, then there will be a trial.

The trial includes:

• Selecting a jury
• Opening statements
• Witness testimony
• Closing arguments, and
• Jury deliberation

After the jury deliberates they will render a verdict and damages will be awarded depending on the outcome. Of course, there is an option to appeal the outcome after it is finalized.

Damages Available in a Personal Injury Case

There are many different types of damages that are available in a personal injury case depending on the unique situation of the plaintiff. As mentioned above, damages may include lost wages and future earning potential. Additionally, they may include pain and suffering, past and future medical expenses and punitive damages. All together, these may help to ease the pain of a harmful accident.

Hiring an Attorney

Since the first step is to consult with an attorney, it is important to contact one to immediately get the case moving forward. If you or a loved one has suffered a personal injury in Los Angeles, you should immediately contact the personal injury attorneys at Turchin Workers Compensation. Our experienced attorneys are available for a consultation to discuss your potential case and give advice on what may transpire going forward. We have years of experience with personal injury cases and can be reached today at (818) 266-5601.