Florida Statute of Limitations for Car Accident Claims
If you got hurt in a car accident, you may be thinking of pursuing a personal injury claim against the other driver. However, you don’t have unlimited time to do so. The Florida statute of limitations imposes deadlines for filing a personal injury lawsuit and seeking compensation from an at-fault party.
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What Is the Statute of Limitations for Car Accidents in Florida?
A statute of limitations is a law that creates a specific deadline for taking legal action. The statutory deadline in one type of case may differ substantially from the deadline in another. In car accident cases, Section 95.11 of the Florida Statutes provides a two-year statute of limitations for personal injury claims based on negligence.
If you’re considering taking legal action after a crash, it’s important to keep Florida’s car accident statute of limitations. Waiting too long could prevent you from pursuing compensation through the court system.
When Does the Statute of Limitations Begin in Florida?
The two-year clock imposed by the Florida statute of limitations for a car accident generally starts ticking on the date on which the cause of action accrues – in other words, on the date of the injury. However, in some situations, an injury isn’t immediately apparent. In these circumstances, Florida law may allow the two-year deadline to begin ticking down starting on the date of the injury’s discovery. Additionally, rare circumstances may allow for the temporary “tolling,” or pausing, of the deadline clock under Florida law, codified at Section 95.051 of the Florida Statutes. Examples include if the defendant is hiding from service or is outside of the state. You can consult a Florida personal injury lawyer from our firm to determine the deadline that applies to your particular case.
What if You Miss the Statute of Limitation Deadline?
Florida courts treat the deadline imposed by the statute of limitations very seriously. Unfortunately, if you file a lawsuit after the deadline has passed, the court will likely reject it and you’ll be unable to seek the compensation you deserve in court.
For this reason, it’s smart to reach out to a Florida car accident attorney as soon as possible after a crash. Doing so offers two key benefits. First, it allows your lawyer to begin investigating the accident while evidence is available and people’s memories are at their freshest. Second, your attorney can determine the precise deadline in your case and proceed accordingly to avoid failing to file on time.
How Can a Florida Car Accident Lawyer Help You?
When you’re facing the fallout from a car accident, you need to be able to focus on your medical treatment and recovery. An experienced car accident attorney can manage your personal injury claim and give you the space you need.
At Holliday Karatinos Law Firm, we have an extensive track record of successful outcomes in Florida car accident cases, including a $694,500 settlement on behalf of a motor vehicle accident victim. As one client wrote of their experience with us:
“I felt so relieved after talking with James about my accident. I could tell he was very experienced in this area and made me feel at ease. I would HIGHLY recommend James to anyone injured from being in an accident. Top notch attorney and staff.” – ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ - Doris C
When you trust Holliday Karatinos Law Firm after a car accident, you can rest easy knowing our experienced personal injury attorneys handle your case from start to finish at no financial risk to you. We charge no upfront fees and work on contingency, meaning we don’t get paid unless we recover compensation for you. Contact us 24/7 to arrange a free consultation.
