When it comes to the statute of limitations, Texas residents need to be aware that they have a time limit for seeking damages for injuries from an accident. A statute of limitations is a timeframe in which people can file a lawsuit related to a car accident. It prevents people from filing in court for something that happened long ago. A statute of limitations gives a realistic window for people to provide evidence and seek payment for medical bills, car repairs, and other expenses incurred as a result of the accident.
The 2-Year Time Limit
In general, with the current statute of limitations, Texas residents have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim. A personal injury claim typically seeks damages that exceed or fall outside of insurance limits. You don’t need to complete the injury claim process within two years. However, the process must be started within two years from the date of the accident.
Take Action Immediately After an Accident
Of course, the best thing you or someone you love can do is take action immediately after an accident. Seek medical attention right after the accident. Some people walk away from a car crash but later recognize they’re hurt. In the chaos of an accident, it can be hard to take personal inventory. Go to the hospital to see if you have any injuries.
If you let too much time pass between the incident and seeking medical attention, the other party or their insurance company could allege that something other than the car accident injured you. Although with the statute of limitations Texas residents have two years, you should act quickly to collect as much evidence as possible.
Take Evidence for Permanent Record
Even though you think you’ll remember what happened in a car accident, details become foggy after days, weeks, and months. To avoid this, take pictures of the scene, go to the hospital, and write down testimony of what happened during and after the accident. With the current statute of limitations, Texas residents need to prepare to recount things for two years. Filing a personal injury claim can take time, so you need to make sure facts are consistent.
Contact Us For Help With Navigating the Statute of Limitations, Texas
The team at Stephen Bowling & Associates can help you or someone you love through the personal injury claim process to get you the damages you deserve. Contact us today for help.