Time Limits on Personal Injury Cases

Have you recently been injured in an accident in Texas? If so, it's important to understand the time limits on personal injury cases in the state. These time limits, also known as statutes of limitations, can impact your ability to seek compensation for your injuries. In this blog post, we'll discuss what you need to know about time limits on personal injury cases in Texas.

What are the Time Limits on Personal Injury Cases in Texas?

In Texas, the statute of limitations for most personal injury cases is two years from the date of the accident. This means that you have two years from the date of your injury to file a lawsuit against the at-fault party. If you fail to file your lawsuit within this time frame, you may lose your right to seek compensation for your injuries.

However, there are some exceptions to this two-year time limit. For example, if the injured person is a minor, the statute of limitations may be extended until they reach the age of 18. Additionally, if the injury was caused by exposure to asbestos or silica, the statute of limitations may be extended to 10 years.

Why are Time Limits on Personal Injury Cases Important?

Time limits on personal injury cases are important for several reasons. First, they help to ensure that evidence and witness testimony are still fresh and available. As time passes, memories fade and evidence may be lost or destroyed, making it more difficult to build a strong case.

Second, time limits on personal injury cases help to prevent frivolous lawsuits. Without time limits, people could potentially wait years or even decades to file a lawsuit, making it difficult for defendants to defend themselves.

Third, time limits on personal injury cases help promote speedy dispute resolution. By setting a deadline for filing a lawsuit, parties are encouraged to negotiate and settle their claims in a timely manner.

What Happens if You Miss the Time Limit to File a Lawsuit?

If you miss the time limit to file a lawsuit, you may lose your right to seek compensation for your injuries. However, there are some limited circumstances where the statute of limitations may be tolled or temporarily suspended. For example, if the injured party was mentally incapacitated or physically unable to file a lawsuit, the statute of limitations may be tolled until they can.

If you may have missed the time limit to file a lawsuit, it's important to consult with an experienced personal injury attorney as soon as possible. They can review the specifics of your case and advise you on your legal options.

Understanding the time limits on personal injury cases in Texas is crucial if you've been injured in an accident. By knowing the statute of limitations and any exceptions that may apply, you can protect your right to seek compensation for your injuries. If you need help navigating the legal system after an accident, contact Briggle & Polan, PLLC. Our experienced personal injury attorneys can help you get the compensation you deserve. Call today at (512) 400-3278.