Moroccan farmworker awarded €238,000 after 712 days off work and five surgeries
After being injured in a road accident in France, a Moroccan farmworker underwent five operations on his legs and was off work for 712 days. Following a lengthy battle with his insurer, he secured more than €238,000 in compensation at the Toulon court.
On December 19, 2021, this Moroccan farmworker’s life was turned upside down in a road accident. The man, born in 1993, suffered fractures to the tibia and fibula in both legs. He would need five surgeries. At the time, he had a permanent contract with a vegetable producer and earned a net monthly salary of around €1,327.
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He was off work for 712 days. He returned to work on December 1, 2023, but the after-effects made everyday tasks difficult. Standing for long periods, crouching, walking long distances or carrying heavy loads now require extra effort. Despite his difficulties, he continues working to support his family.
The consequences extend beyond his working life. The medical assessment found that he had a permanent disability of 8% and would need two hours of home assistance a week for the rest of his life. The Moroccan man can also no longer play football, an activity he pursued before the accident.
Insurer offered €140,891
The fight for compensation began in August 2023. His lawyer requested a medical assessment and an advance payment from Pacifica, the insurer of the driver responsible. The company initially refused to cover any costs, before having the victim examined and paying him several advances.
In June 2025, Pacifica offered €140,891. The Moroccan man took the case to court. In the months that followed, the insurer increased its offer, but the court noted that several proposals had left out losses identified by doctors, including lost earnings and assistance needs.
In its ruling of August 26, 2026, the Toulon Judicial Court set compensation at €238,058.72. The largest portion, €98,252.96, covers the assistance the farmworker will need throughout his life. The judges also awarded him €35,000 for the impact of his injuries on his career, €20,000 for the pain and suffering endured, and €7,000 because he can no longer pursue certain sports activities.
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The judges also penalized Pacifica for its incomplete offers by imposing interest at twice the statutory rate for the period from April 3, 2024, to February 23, 2026, on the amount set by the court. Of the €238,058.72 awarded, the €60,000 in advances already paid will be deducted, leaving €178,058.72 to be paid, plus applicable interest. The insurer must also pay €3,000 in legal costs.
