How Long Do You Have to File a Personal Injury Claim in Texas?
If you’ve been injured in a car accident, slip and fall, or another incident caused by someone else’s negligence, one of the most important questions you may have is: How long do I have to file a personal injury claim in Texas?
The answer is that Texas law generally gives injured victims two years from the date of the injury to file a personal injury lawsuit. This deadline is known as the statute of limitations, and failing to meet it can result in losing your right to seek compensation.
Understanding the Texas Statute of Limitations
Under Texas law, most personal injury claims must be filed within two years of the date the injury occurred. This applies to a wide range of cases, including:
- Car accidents
- Truck accidents
- Motorcycle accidents
- Wrongful death cases
While two years may seem like a long time, building a strong case often takes months of investigation, evidence gathering, and negotiations with insurance companies.
Why Filing Early Matters
Many accident victims assume they can wait until the deadline approaches before taking action. However, delaying your claim can make it more difficult to recover compensation.
Important evidence can disappear over time. Witnesses may forget key details, surveillance footage may be erased, and accident reports can become harder to obtain. The sooner you begin the claims process, the easier it is to preserve evidence that supports your case.
Additionally, insurance companies often start investigating claims immediately after an accident. Having legal representation early can help protect your rights and prevent costly mistakes.
Are There Any Exceptions?
Although the two-year deadline applies to most cases, there are certain exceptions that may extend or shorten the filing period.
For example, if the injured person is a minor, the statute of limitations may not begin running until they turn 18 years old. In some cases involving hidden injuries or delayed discovery of harm, different rules may apply.
Claims against government entities often have much shorter notice requirements. If your injury involved a city, county, or state agency, you may need to take action within a matter of months rather than years.
Because exceptions can be complex, it is important to consult with an attorney as soon as possible after an accident.
What Happens If You Miss the Deadline?
If you file your lawsuit after the statute of limitations expires, the court will likely dismiss your case. This means you may lose your ability to recover compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages related to your injury.
Even if the insurance company appears willing to negotiate, waiting too long can significantly weaken your legal position.
Speak With Texas Personal Injury Attorney Brian Brunson
Named one of the “Best Car Accident Lawyers in Dallas” by Expertise.com, Brian Brunson is Dallas personal injury attorney who is dedicated to helping clients who have suffered a car, truck, or motorcycle injury through the negligent or wrongful conduct of other drivers. In addition, his professionalism is unmatched and the firms’ client reviews speak for themselves.
We proudly serve the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex and surrounding areas, our office supports the legal needs of a wide variety of clients. Let the Law Office of Brian Brunson be your advocate in your time of need and help you put your life back together. If we can’t win or settle your case, you don’t pay a dime! We know it can be daunting to take that first step after you’ve been hurt. Contact Brian Brunson today via email or call us toll-free at 1-844-41-WRECK. We can help, when no one else will.
