If you’re interested in filing a personal injury claim after a car accident, you generally have two years to do so. If you fail to file the case within two years, you might be ineligible for compensation.
A car accident can leave you with major expenses, including medical bills and repair costs. You might be out of work while recovering from your injuries or permanently disabled. This can take a huge financial toll on you and your family. An insurance claim or lawsuit against the at-fault party can secure the financial compensation you need.
A car accident injury lawyer can represent your claim and handle everything so you can focus on healing.
You Typically Have Two Years to File a Car Accident Lawsuit
Most legal actions have a statute of limitations that outlines the applicable filing period. Statutes of limitations vary depending on the location and type of claim. In Texas, personal injury claims and wrongful death claims are bound by a two-year statute of limitations, per Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code § 16.003. The statute of limitations clock begins ticking on the day you were injured.
Some situations can extend the statute of limitations, but you usually only have two years to file a car accident case. If you have questions about the applicable statute of limitations, you can reach out to an experienced accident attorney for advice.
Consequences of Missing the Statute of Limitations
Waiting too long to file your lawsuit can jeopardize your chances of securing reimbursement for your medical bills, pain and suffering, and other losses. It’s always better to be safe than sorry when it comes to these types of cases and start the claims process soon after the injury.
Timeliness Is Crucial When Filing a Car Accident Claim
The statute of limitations is not the only reason to file a legal claim as soon as possible after an accident. Crucial evidence needs to be gathered and preserved quickly. The sooner you contact a lawyer, the sooner they can begin gathering evidence, obtaining witness statements, consulting with experts, and developing a case. The process of gathering evidence can be quite involved, especially for complex cases. Working quickly promotes a favorable outcome.
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Filing Your Case Within the Statute of Limitations Lets You Seek These Damages
A serious car accident can turn your world upside down. You may need extensive medical care that’s left you up to the neck in medical bills. You might be suffering from the financial effects of being out of work. If the car accident was caused by another party’s negligent actions, that party may be required to reimburse you.
By filing your personal injury claim or lawsuit on time, you give yourself the chance to recover;
Vehicle Repair and Other Property Damage Expenses
You have the right to seek compensation for repair costs after a car accident. If your car was totaled in the accident, you can seek compensation for the value of the vehicle. You can also seek compensation for other types of property damage that occurred during the crash. For example, if your laptop was destroyed during the crash, you could qualify for compensation for this as well.
Medical Expenses Resulting from Your Car Accident
Medical care can be very expensive in Texas. A car accident claim may provide compensation for your medical bills. This can help alleviate the financial burden caused by the crash and ensure you receive the medical treatment you need without worrying about the cost. The compensation typically covers a range of medical expenses related to the accident.
These may include:
- Hospitalization
- Transportation for medical appointments
- Doctor appointments
- Medical specialist appointments
- Surgical procedures
- Diagnostic tests and imaging
- Medications
- Physical therapy and other rehabilitation services
- Medical equipment and assistive devices
- Follow-up care
- Home health care
The Income You Lost by Being Out of Work
Many people injured in a car accident have to take time off of work. If you missed work because of your injuries, you could be compensated for lost income. Compensation for lost income typically covers the wages you would have earned if you were able to work your normal schedule. It may also include bonuses, commissions, and other forms of income you could have earned if you hadn’t been injured.
Non-Economic Damages You Experienced Because of the Car Crash
In Texas, car accident victims can sometimes receive compensation for their pain and suffering. You might receive compensation for your:
- Physical pain and discomfort
- Emotional distress
- Mental anguish
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Scars and other types of disfigurement
Why Work with a Lawyer When Filing a Car Accident Claim?
Many insurance companies want to pay the minimum amount possible. They use several tactics to get people to settle for meager amounts in car accident injury cases.
With a personal injury lawyer on your side, you’ll have somebody fighting for you. An experienced lawyer will know how to gather the evidence needed to build a rock-solid case and demand maximum compensation.
Your Lawyer Can Represent You During Settlement Negotiations or a Lawsuit
Most car accident cases are settled through negotiations. Your lawyer will handle the negotiations on your behalf and avoid settling for too little. If the insurance company won’t offer a fair settlement, your lawyer can file a personal injury lawsuit.
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Let a Texas Car Accident Lawyer from Loncar Lyon Jenkins Help You
As noted, you typically have two years after a car accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. However, it’s highly recommended that you start on your case as soon as possible. This begins with considering legal representation. Having a lawyer on your side means that you aren’t fighting this alone.
At Loncar Lyon Jenkins, we’ve helped countless people in your situation recover the compensation they need after a car accident. Our team is dedicated to pursuing the maximum compensation possible in car accident cases. Let us handle your case while you focus on feeling better.
Call us today for a free consultation. Our legal team operates at a contingency-fee structure. We only get paid if and when you do.
