What Are Your Options If ICE Deports You While Receiving Treatment for an Auto Accident?
Being involved in a car accident is traumatic enough, but if you are an undocumented immigrant or non-citizen in the middle of medical treatment and ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) deports you, the situation becomes far more complicated.
Can you still pursue compensation? Do your rights end at the border? What happens to your medical care and legal case? These are serious questions with important answers.
You Still Have Rights Even After Deportation
First and foremost, your immigration status does not prevent you from filing or continuing a personal injury case. The U.S. legal system allows accident victims regardless of legal status to seek damages if they were injured due to someone else’s negligence.
If you’ve been deported during treatment, you still may be entitled to:
Medical expenses already incurred
Future medical treatment costs
Lost wages
Pain and suffering
1. Your Attorney Can Continue the Case on Your Behalf
Even if you are no longer physically in the U.S., your attorney can still pursue your case. A personal injury claim is a civil matter it’s not dependent on your immigration status or presence in the country.
Your lawyer can:
Continue negotiating with the insurance company
Gather medical records and evidence from your treatment before deportation
Request expert testimony to project the cost of future care
Work with you remotely to provide updates and sign paperwork
In some cases, a settlement can be paid to you in your home country or wired internationally.
2. You May Qualify for Continued Medical Treatment Abroad
Suppose you're receiving treatment for serious injuries and are deported. In that case, your personal injury attorney may coordinate with medical providers in your country or help estimate the cost of treatment where you are. These costs can be included in your claim.
It’s also possible for your attorney to:
Obtain written statements from your U.S. doctors about ongoing needs
Arrange evaluations by specialists in your current location
Use those medical opinions to demand additional compensation from the responsible party’s insurance company
3. Returning to the U.S. Might Be Possible in Some Situations
Depending on your immigration history, legal grounds, and urgency of your medical needs, you may be eligible for special waivers or humanitarian parole to return for treatment or court appearances. This is rare, but possible with the right legal team working alongside an immigration attorney.
Your personal injury lawyer should collaborate with your immigration attorney to explore:
Temporary visas for humanitarian reasons
Court permission for virtual testimony if a lawsuit proceeds to trial
Deferred removal in certain circumstances involving medical care
4. Documentation Is Critical
If there’s any risk of deportation while you’re receiving medical treatment, do the following immediately:
Keep copies of all medical records and invoices
Document every appointment, prescription, and recommended treatment
Ensure your attorney has the power of attorney to handle your claim in your absence
Share contact information that will still work if you’re forced to leave the country
What If You’re Undocumented and Haven’t Been Deported Yet?
Even if you fear deportation, you should not avoid medical treatment or filing a personal injury claim. Delaying care can weaken your case and hurt your health. Many states, including California, protect your right to pursue compensation regardless of status. Your attorney can help you avoid unnecessary risks while seeking justice.
Final Thought: Don’t Let Fear Stop You from Getting the Help You Deserve
Being deported during an open personal injury case is not the end of the road. With a qualified legal team, you can continue your claim, recover damages, and seek the treatment you need even from another country.
Why Gaps in Treatment Can Hurt the Value of Your Car Accident Case
If you’ve been injured in a car accident, one of the most critical decisions you can make is seeking prompt and consistent medical treatment. Too often, injury victims delay care or miss appointments, sometimes due to pain tolerance, busy schedules, or financial concerns. But here's the truth: gaps in treatment can significantly reduce the value of your personal injury case.
What Is a “Gap in Treatment” After an Accident?
A gap in treatment refers to any delay or interruption in the medical care you receive after an accident. This could include:
Waiting days or weeks to see a doctor after the crash
Missing scheduled physical therapy or follow-up appointments
Stopping treatment before being fully healed
Even if your injuries are real, insurance adjusters will use these gaps to question the severity of your condition—and your commitment to getting better.
How Treatment Gaps Affect Your Personal Injury Claim
1. Insurance Companies Will Downplay Your Injuries
Insurance adjusters are trained to minimize payouts. If they see long gaps between your accident and your medical visits, they’ll argue your injuries weren’t serious—or weren’t caused by the accident at all.
2. Your Credibility Takes a Hit
Consistency builds credibility. A well-documented, uninterrupted treatment plan shows you took your injuries seriously. Gaps, on the other hand, raise red flags and give defense attorneys a reason to question your honesty or the necessity of your care.
3. It’s Harder to Prove Causation
In personal injury law, you must prove that the accident directly caused your injuries. If you delay care, the defense can argue that your injuries stem from a different event or a pre-existing condition, not the crash.
4. Juries May Be Less Sympathetic
If your case goes to trial, jurors may wonder why you didn’t follow through with treatment if you were truly in pain. This can affect their perception of your damages, including pain and suffering.
What Should You Do After an Accident?
To protect the value of your case:
Seek immediate medical attention. Even if you feel okay, get evaluated by a doctor. Some injuries, like whiplash, internal bleeding, or soft tissue damage, take time to show symptoms.
Follow your doctor’s instructions. Go to every appointment, take your medication, and complete all therapy sessions.
Document everything. Keep records of visits, prescriptions, referrals, and out-of-pocket costs.
Speak to a personal injury attorney early. A qualified lawyer can help guide your treatment timeline, recommend specialists, and ensure your care is well-documented for the case.
Common Reasons for Treatment Gaps (and Why They Don’t Work as Excuses)
“I couldn’t afford it.” While understandable, some medical providers work on liens or offer financing. Your attorney can help find options.
“I thought I was feeling better.” Many injuries flare up later. It’s better to complete treatment until your doctor discharges you.
“I didn’t want to miss work.” Short-term work sacrifices can result in long-term compensation. Your health comes first.
Final Thoughts: Don’t Let a Gap in Treatment Cost You Thousands
Every day you delay care, the insurance company builds a case against you. The longer you wait, the harder it becomes to link your injuries to the accident, and the lower your settlement may be.
At Noble Attorneys, we work with car accident victims across all of California to protect their health, their rights, and their recovery. If you've been in a crash, don’t wait.
Call us today for a free consultation. There’s no fee unless we win your case.
Injured by a Public School or County Agency? You Only Have 6 Months to Take Action
If you’ve been injured due to the negligence of a government entity in California — such as a public school, city department, or county agency you don’t have the usual two years to file a personal injury claim. You have just six months.
This strict deadline is known as the California Government Tort Claims Act, and if you miss it, your case could be thrown out before it ever reaches court.
At Noble Attorneys, we regularly help clients navigate this complicated and time-sensitive process. Whether your child was injured at school or you were hurt due to unsafe conditions on city property, here's what you need to know.
What Is the 6-Month Rule?
Under California Government Code section 911.2, if you’re filing a claim for personal injury, wrongful death, or property damage against a public entity, you must first file a written claim with that entity within six months from the date of the incident.
This rule applies to:
Public schools and school districts
Cities and counties
Government agencies (like public transportation or sanitation)
Public hospitals
Police and fire departments
Failing to file the claim within the six-month period usually results in your case being barred from moving forward, even if it’s strong.
Why Is There a Special Deadline?
The law gives government entities the chance to investigate and respond to claims before they turn into full lawsuits. It’s a way for the state to manage risk and legal exposure.
But it also creates a real burden for injured people who may not even know they need to act quickly — especially children or their parents after an injury at school.
That’s why it’s critical to speak with a lawyer as soon as the injury occurs. At Noble Attorneys, we help families and individuals file these time-sensitive claims correctly and on time.
Examples of When the 6-Month Rule Applies
Here are just a few situations where the six-month statute of limitations could apply:
1. Injuries at a public school
If a child is seriously injured due to negligent supervision, faulty playground equipment, or violence on school grounds, the district may be liable.
2. Unsafe city sidewalks or roads
Tripping over a raised sidewalk slab or crashing due to missing signage can lead to a claim against the city or county.
3. Bus or public transportation accidents
If you’re injured on a city bus or train run by a government transit authority, the six-month rule still applies.
4. Assault or excessive force by a public employee
Lawsuits involving police or security personnel must also be filed under this shortened deadline.
5. Medical malpractice at public hospitals
Claims against a publicly funded clinic or hospital follow the same 6-month claim process.
How the Process Works
File an administrative claim with the appropriate government entity within 6 months of the injury date.
Wait for a response — the entity has 45 days to approve or deny your claim.
If denied, you have 6 months from the date of denial to file a lawsuit in court.
This process is separate from the normal two-year personal injury statute of limitations, and it’s very easy to get tripped up if you’re not familiar with it.
Don’t Assume You Have Time, You Don’t
People often think they have two years to sue for personal injury, but that doesn’t apply when a government agency is involved. Missing the six-month filing window usually means you lose the right to sue altogether, regardless of how severe the injury was or how clear the liability is.
At Noble Attorneys, we move fast to protect your rights and make sure every deadline is hit. We take care of the paperwork, file the claims, and build the strongest case possible from day one.
Schedule a Free Consultation with Noble Attorneys
If you or your child was injured due to the negligence of a public school, city department, or other government entity, do not wait. You may only have weeks left to act.
We offer free consultations, and you don’t pay us unless we win.
Can Bicycles and Scooters Be at Fault in an Accident?
As California streets become increasingly crowded with bikes, scooters, and shared mobility devices, a crucial legal question continues to arise. Can cyclists or scooter riders be responsible for causing an accident?
The answer is yes.
Just like drivers of cars, motorcycles, or trucks, cyclists and scooter riders are required to follow traffic laws. When they fail to do so, they can be held legally liable for injuries, property damage, or even fatalities.
At Noble Attorneys, we’ve seen a rise in cases involving scooter and bike accidents, especially in areas like Los Angeles, Burbank, and Glendale. Below is what you need to know about how fault is determined and what your rights are.
How Is Fault Determined in Bike and Scooter Accidents?
California uses a legal concept called comparative negligence. This means that more than one party can share fault in an accident, including drivers, pedestrians, and people riding bicycles or scooters.
You can be held responsible if, for example:
You ran a red light or failed to stop at a stop sign
You rode against the flow of traffic
You failed to yield to a pedestrian
You were distracted by a phone or wore headphones while riding
You were under the influence of drugs or alcohol
Your bike or scooter was not road-safe due to poor maintenance
When determining fault, insurance companies and courts look at police reports, traffic camera footage, statements from witnesses, and whether any traffic laws were violated.
Real Example:
A scooter rider in Santa Monica ran a red light and collided with a car that had the right of way. Although the rider was injured and had a broken arm, the court found him 70 percent at fault. His settlement was reduced significantly as a result.
What If You Are Injured and Partially at Fault?
California follows a pure comparative fault rule. This means that even if you were partly to blame for the accident, you can still recover financial compensation. Your recovery is simply reduced by your percentage of fault.
For example, if your total damages were valued at $100,000 and you were found to be 40 percent at fault, you could still receive $60,000.
This is why it’s so important to work with an experienced personal injury lawyer. The team at Noble Attorneys knows how to gather evidence, build a strong case, and push back when the insurance company tries to shift more blame onto you.
Are Shared Scooters like Bird or Lime Treated the Same?
Yes. Riders of shared scooters are considered operators of vehicles under California law. If you break traffic laws while riding one of these devices, you can still be held liable for an accident.
However, liability may also extend to the scooter company itself. If the scooter had a brake malfunction, battery failure, or design flaw, the rental company could share in the responsibility.
At Noble Attorneys, we investigate every angle to determine if third-party negligence contributed to your accident.
Common Injuries in Scooter and Bike Accidents
We often see:
Head and brain injuries
Fractures and broken bones
Internal bleeding and organ trauma
Road rash and serious lacerations
Spinal cord injuries
Even accidents that appear minor can lead to long-term medical costs, emotional distress, and missed time from work. If someone else’s actions contributed to your injury, you have a legal right to pursue compensation.
What You Should Do After a Scooter or Bicycle Accident
Call 911 and get medical help immediately
File an accident report with local law enforcement
Gather witness names and phone numbers
Take photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and your injuries
Do not admit fault to anyone, including the other party or insurance companies
Contact a personal injury lawyer before speaking to any adjusters
Don’t Let the Insurance Company Blame You
It is common for insurance companies to point the finger at the rider in a bike or scooter crash. Without legal representation, you could end up accepting a much smaller settlement than you deserve.
At Noble Attorneys, we protect your rights from day one. We help clients across Southern California secure compensation for their injuries and get the support they need to recover physically and financially.
Contact Noble Attorneys for a Free Consultation
If you’ve been involved in a bike or scooter accident, or if someone else riding one caused your injuries, our team is here to help.
We offer free consultations with no strings attached. There are no upfront fees, and you pay nothing unless we win your case.
Injured in a Car Accident? Here’s What a Personal Injury Lawyer Recommends
It all begins with an idea.
Picture this scenario: you've just been involved in a car accident. The shock and confusion can be overwhelming, making it crucial to stay composed and make the right decisions. As a personal injury attorney with years of experience, I've seen how the aftermath of a collision can greatly impact the outcome of any legal claim. In this blog post, I'll guide you through what not to do after colliding with another vehicle.
1. Don't Leave the Scene
One of the most critical mistakes you can make is leaving the scene of an accident. Not an inch. Do not move at all. Make sure you stand your ground and make sure not to leave the scene of a crime. There are times when it's 50/50 incidents and people argue about positioning especially when you move out of the area of the accident.
As soon as the accident happens make sure to park your car right then and there regardless of the fact that you may be blocking other drivers or the road.
2. Don't Admit Fault:
In the heat of the moment, you may be tempted to apologize or admit fault, even if it wasn't entirely yours. However, it's crucial to avoid making any statements that could be construed as an admission of guilt. These statements could later be used against you in insurance negotiations or legal proceedings.
3. Don't Forget to Gather Information:
Collecting accurate information is key. Exchange contact details, insurance information, and driver's license information with the other parties involved.
Additionally, gather information from any witnesses who might have seen the accident. Their accounts could prove invaluable should a dispute arise.
You more than likely have a smartphone handy especially if you are reading this. Make sure to take pictures of the accident while you are holding your ground at the position of the accident. The more pictures, the better.
4. Don't Neglect Medical Attention & Call Your Attorney:
Even if you feel fine immediately after the accident, some injuries may take time to manifest.
This is the time to call an attorney and a good attorney will tell you to go to urgent care. This documentation can be essential when pursuing compensation for medical expenses and documenting any sort of injuries that occurred.
5. Don't Delay Reporting to Your Insurance Company:
Typically once you call your attorney they will be in touch with your insurance company. The idea is you want to notify your insurance company as soon as possible. Timely reporting helps streamline the claims process and can prevent unnecessary complications. However, keep in mind that you shouldn't provide a detailed statement to the insurance company without consulting an attorney, as this could affect your legal position. This is why we strongly urge you to follow step 4 fully and contact an attorney that specializes in car accident claims.
6. Don't Speak to the Other Party's Insurance Company Without Legal Counsel:
While the other party's insurance company may seem helpful, remember that their primary goal is to minimize their liability. Refrain from providing a recorded statement or signing any documents without consulting your attorney first.
7. Don't Post About the Accident on Social Media:
In today's digital age, it's easy to share every detail of your life on social media. However, avoid discussing the accident or your injuries online, as these posts can potentially be used against you during legal proceedings.
Not everyone needs to know about your accident outside of the parties involved, your attorney, and your insurance.
In conclusion, the moments after a collision can be disorienting, but avoiding these common pitfalls can greatly impact the outcome of any potential legal claims. Remember, seeking professional legal advice from an experienced personal injury attorney is always a wise step to take in ensuring your rights are protected and your best interests are upheld.
What to Do After a House Flood: 5 Urgent Legal Tips from an Attorney
It all begins with an idea.
Dealing with a house flood is a homeowner's nightmare. The damage can be extensive, the stress overwhelming, and the road to recovery, long. In these trying times, it's crucial to act swiftly and efficiently to minimize damage, protect your property, and ensure a smoother recovery process. In this blog post, we'll provide valuable insights into the five immediate steps you should take when dealing with a house flood, from the perspective of a lawyer who understands both the legal and practical aspects of the situation. Importantly, we'll highlight why contacting an attorney early in the process can make a significant difference in maximizing your insurance claim, as insurance companies often aim to provide the least compensation possible.
1.) Ensure Safety First:
In the chaos of a house flood, your safety and the safety of your loved ones should always come first. If it's safe to do so, turn off the power and gas supply to your home to prevent electrical hazards and gas leaks. However, do not attempt this if it involves entering floodwaters. Additionally, be cautious of contaminated floodwaters, which can carry bacteria and other harmful substances. It's crucial to wear protective gear like rubber boots, gloves, and a mask to reduce health risks.
2.) Document the Damage:
As soon as you can safely do so, start documenting the extent of the damage. Take clear and comprehensive photos or videos of the flooded areas and damaged possessions. This documentation will serve as critical evidence for your insurance claim and potential legal actions. An attorney can guide you on what to document and how to do it to protect your interests.
3.) Consult with a Lawyer:
Early consultation with a lawyer who specializes in property damage and insurance claims is a vital step in maximizing your insurance claim. Insurance companies often strive to offer the least compensation possible, and an experienced attorney will know how to negotiate with them effectively. They can help you understand your rights, interpret your insurance policy, and handle any legal issues that may arise, such as disputes with contractors or property damage claims against third parties.
4.) Contact Your Insurance Company:
After securing your safety and documenting the damage, reach out to your insurance company as quickly as possible. Your homeowner's insurance policy may cover flood damage, but it's important to understand what's included and the steps you need to follow to file a claim. This is where an attorney's advice can be invaluable. Insurance companies often aim to minimize payouts, and they may employ tactics that can reduce your settlement. An attorney will help you navigate this process, ensuring you provide all necessary documentation and negotiate effectively to secure a fair settlement.
5.) Mitigate Further Damage:
Preventing additional damage to your property is crucial. You can start by removing water from your home through professional services or with the help of pumps and dehumidifiers. Salvageable belongings should be moved to a dry area, and steps should be taken to secure your property against theft or vandalism. An attorney can advise on how to protect your rights during the repair and restoration process, ensuring you are not taken advantage of by contractors or insurance adjusters.
Dealing with a house flood is a challenging experience, but taking immediate and informed action can significantly impact the outcome. Prioritizing safety, documenting the damage, working with your insurance company, mitigating further harm, and consulting with a lawyer are essential steps to ensure a smoother recovery process. Remember that early contact with an attorney can make a significant difference in getting the most out of your insurance, ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve, and protecting your rights when dealing with a house flood. Don't wait until it's too late – reach out to an attorney to help you navigate this challenging situation.
How to Know if You Have a Strong Personal Injury Case?
It all begins with an idea.
If you've recently endured a personal injury in an accident—whether a car accident, slip and fall accident, dog bite, or other type of accident brought about by someone's negligence—you're likely asking yourself if you have a personal injury claim. Personal injury law under California law grants individuals injured the right to recover damages for their injuries, but all accidents don't necessarily qualify an individual to claim. At Noble Attorneys, we represent the victims of injury in Los Angeles, Glendale, and nearby communities to navigate their legal options and pursue justice.
Here’s what you need to know to determine if you have a strong personal injury case in California.
1. Was Someone Else Legally at Fault?
The foundation of any personal injury claim is negligence—meaning another party acted carelessly or failed to take reasonable action, causing your injury. You must be able to prove the following four elements:
Duty of care: The other person or entity owed you a legal duty (e.g., drivers must follow traffic laws).
Breach of duty: They failed to act reasonably or violated that duty.
Causation: Their actions directly caused your injury.
Damages: You suffered losses (medical expenses, lost wages, emotional distress, etc.).
If these elements apply to your situation, you may have a valid claim.
2. Common Types of Personal Injury Cases in California
Some of the most common personal injury claims we handle include:
Car accidents: Distracted driving, speeding, or DUI-related crashes.
Slip and falls: Unsafe conditions in stores, apartment complexes, or public spaces.
Workplace injuries: Especially if a third party (not your employer) was involved.
Dog bites: California holds owners strictly liable for dog attacks in most cases.
Wrongful death: If a loved one died due to another’s negligence, surviving family members may file a claim.
Every case is unique, which is why speaking with a qualified attorney is key.
3. Have You Suffered Actual Damages?
A successful personal injury claim must involve tangible or measurable damages. This includes:
Medical bills (current and future)
Lost income or reduced earning ability
Pain and suffering
Property damage
Emotional trauma
Even if your injuries seem minor at first, symptoms can worsen over time. That’s why it’s important to seek both medical attention and legal advice as soon as possible.
4. Time Limits: The Statute of Limitations in California
In most California personal injury cases, you have two years from the date of the injury to file a lawsuit. If the injury was not discovered immediately, you may have one year from the date of discovery. Missing this deadline can bar you from recovering any compensation.
Certain exceptions exist (e.g., cases against government entities require filing within 6 months), so don’t wait.
5. How Noble Attorneys Can Help
At Noble Attorneys, we offer free consultations to evaluate your case and explain your legal rights. We don’t charge upfront fees—we only get paid if we win your case. Our attorneys handle everything from insurance negotiations to trial litigation, allowing you to focus on healing while we fight for the compensation you deserve.
We proudly serve clients in English, Spanish, and Armenian, and are available 24/7 to answer your call.