In most cases, it is safer to file your claim as soon as possible. This is critical if you want to qualify for any compensation for your damages.
If you have been seriously injured, seeking medical help is important for your safety and also it allows you to provide medical documentation. Medical documents will provide a strong foundation for your case, especially if you got help immediately. These records will show the court that you were affected by the accident and you qualify for a settlement.
The deadline to file a claim varies from state to state, but you will get the most benefit out of taking action earlier.
On the other hand, it is important to file as soon as you can because it decreases the likelihood of mistakes or forgetting what happened. When the claim takes too long, people might forget what actually took place, contact with witnesses may get lost, or details of the incident might not add up. In order to keep everything correct and reliable, lawsuits must be filed within 1-2 years of the accident, depending on the state.
While every state has its own statute of limitations, the average is usually around 2 years. There are some exceptions that will allow you to get an extension on filing your personal injury claim. If you were a minor at the time of the accident and were not able to file the claim yourself, you might be able to receive an extension until you are of legal age. If you are critically injured from the accident and are not able to file a claim within the time frame, you might be eligible for an extension as well.
Lawsuits usually take around 1-3 years to be finalized. If you file as soon as you are able, it will allow the court to come to a decision quicker and you will get the highest settlement you qualify for.
Why you need an attorney
Personal injury claims can be extremely difficult to navigate on your own. It is important to hire an attorney that specializes in personal injury so you can get the compensation you deserve.
If you have been injured, an attorney will help you collect your medical records and use them as evidence to support your case. They can negotiate with the court and they have expertise in talking with insurance companies.
It is also important to seek out an attorney if you need an extension for your claim. They can be difficult to obtain, so an attorney will be a huge help.
What to do if you have been injured in a car accident
If you or someone you know has been injured in a car accident, it is critical to seek medical and legal help. An attorney can help you navigate your personal injury lawsuit and help you get the compensation you deserve. The Accident Injury Legal Center can get you in contact with an attorney that is qualified to handle your case.
Call the Accident Injury Legal Center at 1-866-255-4870.
Resource
Iavorenciuc, T. (2022, May 25). When Should You Begin Filing for Personal Injury? Legal Reader. Retrieved May 26, 2022, from https://www.legalreader.com/when-should-you-begin-filing-for-personal-injury/