After a crash, there is rarely a reminder that a clock is running. But every state sets a deadline, called a statute of limitations, for bringing an injury claim to court. Miss it and the claim can be lost however strong it was.
Why there is no single answer
The deadline is set by state law, and it is not the same everywhere. It can also differ for injury and for property damage, for adults and for children, and for claims where someone died. It can change when the law changes.
Shorter deadlines to know about
- Claims against a city, county, state agency or public transit often need written notice within a much shorter time.
- Your own insurance policy may require prompt notice of a crash and of an uninsured motorist claim.
- Medical providers and health insurers may have their own timelines for bills and liens.
Because the answer depends on the state, the parties and the kind of claim, this is one question to put to a licensed attorney in the state where the crash happened, and early.
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