Contact our team of experts today at 713-677-0423 or fill out our contact form for a free consultation. Our experienced attorneys at Phipps Garza Trial Lawyers are ready to guide you through the legal process and help you protect your rights.

How Long Do I Have to File a Personal Injury Claim?

The Statute of Limitations

The statute of limitations refers to the legal time limit you have to file a claim. In Texas, the statute of limitations for personal injury cases is generally two years from the date of the accident. If a claim is not filed within this period, you will likely lose your right to seek compensation.

Filing a claim after the statute of limitations expires may result in an automatic dismissal, making it essential to act as soon as possible.

Exceptions That May Shorten the Deadline

Certain situations require injury victims to act even faster.

• Claims Against a Government Agency – If your injury involved a government entity (such as a city vehicle, a government-owned property, or a public employee), you must file a notice of claim within six months of the incident. Failing to meet this deadline may prevent you from pursuing compensation.

Exceptions That May Extend the Deadline

Some circumstances allow for an extension of the statute of limitations:

• Injuries to Minors – If a child suffers an injury, the two-year statute of limitations does not begin until their 18th birthday, giving them until they turn 20 years old to file a claim.
• Delayed Discovery of Injuries – Some injuries, such as those caused by toxic exposure or medical malpractice, may not become apparent immediately. In such cases, the statute of limitations may begin from the date the injury is discovered. However, proving a delayed discovery can be legally complex.

Because extensions are rarely granted, it is always best to consult an attorney as soon as possible.

Considerations for Wrongful Death Cases

In Texas, wrongful death claims also have a two-year statute of limitations. However, the deadline is calculated from the date of death, not the date of the original accident. This distinction is important because some victims may succumb to their injuries months or even years after the initial incident.

If you have lost a loved one due to negligence, you may be entitled to file a wrongful death lawsuit to seek justice and financial compensation.

The Importance of Acting Quickly

While Texas law gives injury victims up to two years to file a claim, waiting too long can weaken your case. Key evidence, such as witness testimony, surveillance footage, and accident reports, can become harder to obtain over time. Insurance companies may also try to delay proceedings, hoping that you will miss your filing deadline.

Taking action as soon as possible allows your attorney to:

• Gather crucial evidence before it is lost or destroyed.
• Interview witnesses while their memories are still fresh.
• Negotiate with insurance companies before they attempt to minimize your claim.

If you are considering filing a personal injury claim, reach out to Phipps Garza Trial Lawyers for expert legal advice.

Next Steps: Protect Your Rights and Take Action

If you or a loved one has been injured due to someone else’s negligence, waiting too long can jeopardize your case. While understanding Texas’ statute of limitations is crucial, acting quickly is even more important to strengthen your claim and secure compensation.

Schedule a Free Consultation

Don’t wait until it’s too late. The sooner you seek legal guidance, the better your chances of building a strong case. Contact Phipps Garza Trial Lawyers today to discuss your situation with an experienced personal injury attorney.

• Call us now at 713-677-0423 to speak with our legal team.
• Fill out our contact form for a free consultation.

Why Choose Phipps Garza?

• Experienced trial attorneys with a proven track record in personal injury cases.
• Dedicated to fighting for maximum compensation for accident victims.
• No upfront fees – we don’t get paid unless you win your case.

Take Control of Your Case Today

Every day that passes could mean lost evidence or diminished witness credibility. Don’t risk your financial future by delaying your claim.

Call 713-677-0423 now or fill out our contact form to get the legal representation you deserve.