In 2025, car accidents are the leading cause of personal injury claims, according to the Highway Loss Data Institute. This makes up over 50% of cases in the U.S.
If you’ve been hurt, perhaps suing wouldn’t be the first thing you’ll think to do. But waiting too long could lose you a chance to claim compensation. This is because there are strict deadlines for filing injury claims.
Let’s look at the importance of the personal injury statute of limitations and the essential steps to take so you won’t miss it.
What You Need to Know About Injury Claim Deadlines
Be aware of timelines when it comes to injury claims. The statutes of limitation vary by state and set the deadline for filing an injury lawsuit within a certain period. Depending on the injury, time intervals usually span from one to six years.
You may not be entitled to claim compensation unless they adhere to these deadlines. Else, it would be difficult to proceed with the claims process if the statute of limitations is not followed.
It’s important to gather evidence to prove your case. Talk to a lawyer who can give advice on how to deal with this. Writing down the date and all details of the incident is important to your claim. And don’t hesitate to ask if you have any questions.
What Happens If You Miss Your Filing Deadline?
Don’t miss the deadline. There is a specific timeframe to file a claim, and missing this could affect how much compensation you can get. Worse still, you may lose the opportunity to file a claim for damages.
Insurance companies may also feel offended when they refuse your request for time. This may be frustrating if you consider your case to be valid.
Besides, a late filing implies that there’s no merit to the urgency of a claim, making working out settlements rather a difficult job.
Circumstances That Can Extend Your Injury Claim Deadline
The following are some specific exceptions to the statute of limitations that apply to personal injury cases.
The deadline is not activated until the injured minor turns eighteen years old, marking the age of majority. As previously mentioned, contracts made by someone declared mentally incapacitated are only valid until the individual regains their mental ability.
If the defendant lived in a different state from the location of the injury when the preclusion happened, the statute of limitations might not be enforced. Another exception to limitations statutes exists in cases where a settlement is likely, and negotiations are not charged with any violations.
It is important to seek legal counsel to ensure your needs are customized to your circumstances without concern about possible alterations that might be accessible to you.
Summerlin personal injury lawyer Brian W. Easton says that the right attorney can help you gather the evidence you need to prove fault for your injury, establish the extent of your damages, and prove that your damages directly resulted from the defendant’s actions and not some other cause.
Preparing Your Injury Claim Before Time Runs Out
The process of finding these exceptions begins with its initial stage. The second phase of research requires evidence that establishes evidence-based methods for proving non-physical harm claims.
Start by gathering all important documents that relate to your injury. List every expense that you will pay yourself, including medical costs and all other expenses. The process requires determination of expense values, which apply to all elements needed for your claim.
You should create daily records through which you will document your ongoing psychological suffering. The process uses evidence to establish a case for sustained physical harm.
You can begin your work by interviewing a potential witness to gather their statements along with their contact information. The understanding of specific filing requirements and deadlines becomes essential for your state.
When to Seek Legal Help for Your Injury Claim
The rights and compensation you deserve from another party should be pursued after you consult with a top lawyer.
You should contact your attorney when the company presents you with an actual lowball offer. The attorneys who have experience will guide you through proper negotiation methods, which will prevent you from losing the deal.
The sincere guidance that you receive at this moment will help you avoid legal and paperwork confusion.
