The statute of limitations for vehicle collisions sets the legal deadline for you to file a lawsuit to seek payment from the liable party. If you miss the cutoff date, you typically lose the right to sue the at-fault party for a settlement.
The time usually begins running on the day of the traffic incident. However, the court may grant an extension in some cases. A knowledgeable attorney from our firm can explain your legal options and answer any questions about the Houston car accident statute of limitations.
Auto insurance companies handle most settlements, and they often set shorter deadlines and require more detailed information about crashes. However, if you and the other party cannot agree on the payout amount, the case may proceed to civil court.
Under Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code § 16.003, you have two years to file most personal injury claims, including those from automobile collisions. The deadline applies to cases involving losses such as:
Our Houston attorneys can handle the legal filings and answer your questions about the statute of limitations in car wreck cases.
The civil court may grant exceptions to the expiration date in some cases. These include the following:
While the court may lengthen the cutoff date, preparing your case and filing promptly is always in your best interest. That ensures the evidence is readily available and the memory of any eyewitnesses remains clear.
Suits against government agencies, such as state vehicles and police cars, require you to follow special rules. The Texas Tort Claims Act provides a limited waiver for vehicle collisions that government employees cause through negligence while driving. However, the rule requires you to file a notice and a formal written claim within 90 days before pursuing legal action. This is a strict requirement, and there are usually no exceptions.
The compensation you seek must be for injuries and losses a government employee caused while operating an automobile. The claim must involve tangible damages, such as bodily injuries and property damage. The legislation also caps damages to prevent unlimited payouts. Our Houston car crash lawyer can advise you on all the specifics regarding the statute of limitations during an initial consultation.
A preventable vehicle collision caused by someone else’s negligence can leave you dealing with serious injuries and uncertainty about what to do next. Personal injury laws provide the path for you to obtain a settlement from the responsible party. However, understanding and following the laws is crucial to reaching a positive outcome and obtaining a settlement.
We can review your case and options in a consultation and explain the Houston car accident statute of limitations. Call us today to get started.
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