Traveling to the United States has become increasingly popular among Brazilians, especially to Florida, which is home to one of the largest Brazilian communities outside of Brazil. Each year, close to 700,000 Brazilians visit Orlando alone, drawn by its world-famous attractions, universities, and business opportunities. Thousands more have chosen to make Central Florida their second home, creating a strong and vibrant Brazilian presence in the region. But while the experience of living or traveling in the U.S. can be exciting, accidents can happen when you least expect them. For Brazilian citizens injured in the U.S., the situation can quickly become stressful. The combination of unfamiliar laws, language barriers, and complex insurance procedures can make it difficult to know what to do next or who to trust for help. Fortunately, Urban Thier & Federer, P.A., headquartered in Orlando, has extensive experience throughout the United States in assisting Brazilian clients facing exactly these challenges.
How do U.S. and Brazilian Legal Systems Differ?
One of the biggest surprises for many Brazilians is how different the U.S. legal system is from Brazil’s when it comes to personal injury cases.
In Brazil, personal injury claims typically fall under civil liability (responsabilidade civil). Cases often take years to resolve, and compensation amounts tend to be lower compared to U.S. standards. There are also no jury trials in Brazil; instead, a judge decides both responsibility and compensation. Additionally, attorneys in Brazil usually charge hourly fees or fixed rates, whereas in the U.S., most personal injury lawyers, including Urban Thier & Federer, work on a contingency fee basis. This means clients pay nothing upfront and the firm is only paid if compensation is recovered.
In the United States, personal injury law allows for higher compensation for damages that can include:
- Medical expenses (past and future)
- Lost wages (past and future)
- Pain and suffering
- Property damage
- Emotional distress
However, each state has different rules and deadlines (known as “statutes of limitation”). This is why it is essential to work with a law firm experienced in international and cross-border claims, ensuring your rights are protected in both legal systems.
After an accident, insurance companies may contact you quickly, sometimes offering settlements that seem appealing. Do not sign or agree to anything before consulting a lawyer. These early offers often undervalue the care and the true cost of medical care and future expenses. Urban Thier & Federer’s bilingual attorneys help review documents and negotiate with U.S. insurers to ensure fair compensation.
How Can Urban Thier & Federer Help Brazilian Clients?
With offices in the United States, and additional partner locations worldwide, Urban Thier & Federer, P.A. focuses on representing international clients injured in the United States. The law firm’s attorneys and staff speak Portuguese, English, and other languages, making communication seamless.
A recent example is V.T. v. J.D. and R.P. Inc., where we represented a Brazilian tourist injured in a car accident near Orlando. The client suffered post-concussion syndrome following a rear-end collision while returning from a day at the theme parks and we were able to secure a $625,000 settlement after extensive litigation.
UTF assists Brazilian citizens with:
- Car, motorcycle, and pedestrian accidents
- Tourist and hotel injuries
- Premises liability injuries
- Wrongful death claims
- Insurance disputes
Accidents abroad can be overwhelming, but you do not have to face the process alone. Urban Thier & Federer, P.A. provides personalized support to help Brazilian citizens recover compensation and understand their rights under U.S. law.
Our bilingual team is ready to assist you from the moment of your injury until your case is resolved. We communicate clearly, handle all necessary paperwork, and ensure you are never left without guidance, whether you are in Orlando, São Paulo, or anywhere in between.
If you or a loved one is a Brazilian citizen injured in the United States, contact Urban Thier & Federer, P.A. today for a consultation. Our experienced attorneys are here to help you attain the compensation you deserve.