The amount of time you have to file your complaint in court against the negligent driver who caused your injuries in a car accident is called the statute of limitations. It is crucial to understand and comply with this deadline because the penalty for failing to do so is very harsh.

Statute of Limitations in Car Accident Cases

Every state has its own laws setting the time period that victims have to file a lawsuit in an auto crash cases. In Texas, the deadlines are as follows:

Personal Injury

Two years from the date of your accident

Property Damage 

Two years from the date of your accident

Wrongful Death 

Two years from the victim’s date of death

What Happens If You File Your Lawsuit After the Statute of Limitations Has Expired?

If you file a complaint after the statute of limitations has passed, the judge will most likely dismiss your lawsuit. While there is no deadline to file a claim with the negligent driver’s insurance company, they will have no incentive to offer you a settlement of your claim once this deadline has passed because they know that you cannot take legal action against them. 

Five Reasons Not to Wait to Retain an Experienced Car Accident Attorney

You may feel like you have plenty of time to retain an experienced car accident lawyer if your auto crash occurred recently. However, it would be a big mistake to wait to do so. Here are five reasons that it is important to hire an attorney as soon as possible after your accident:

  1. He can conduct a more thorough investigation if you retain him soon after your wreck.
  2. Witnesses may disappear or have their memories fade if their statement is not taken quickly. In addition, evidence can be destroyed or lost if it is not collected right away.
  3. Your lawyer can help you avoid inadvertent mistakes that hurt your case, such as signing the insurance company’s medical authorization, agreeing to give a recorded statement, or settling your case too fast for less than it is worth.
  4. He can guide you through the process of filing your claim.
  5. He can take over communications with the insurance adjuster so that your legal rights are protected and you receive what you deserve in settlement of your claim.

Have You Been Injured In A Texas Car Accident?

If you've been hurt in a Texas car accident you need to speak with an experienced car accident lawyer as soon as possible. Contact us online or call our Colleyville office directly at 817.485.8888 to schedule your free consultation.

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David Hart
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Helping victims throughout Fort Worth, Arlington, North Richland, Grapevine, Bedford, Hurst and points between