Getting injured in a car accident or getting injured at work can be stressful and frightening, but Houston personal injury and criminal defense lawyer Joaquin Jimenez is committed to protecting and advocating for you with open-mindedness, compassion, and by upholding his positive outcome rate. One crucial aspect of any Houston personal injury claim is understanding the statute of limitations, which dictates the time frame within which you must file your claim.

Understanding the Statute of Limitations with Your Houston Personal Injury Lawyer

The statute of limitations is a law that sets the maximum time after an event within which legal proceedings may be initiated. In the context of personal injury cases, this period determines how long a victim has to file a lawsuit following an accident. Failure to file within this window typically results in the forfeiture of your right to pursue legal action.

Statute of Limitations for Houston Car Accident Claims in Texas

In Texas, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims, including car accidents, is generally two years from the date of the accident. This means that if you are involved in a car accident, you have two years from that date to file a Houston personal injury claim. Missing this deadline usually means you cannot seek compensation for your injuries and damages through the court system.

However, certain exceptions can alter this time frame. For instance:

Discovery Rule: If the injury or damage was not immediately apparent, the statute of limitations might begin from the date the injury was discovered or reasonably should have been discovered.

Minors: If the injured party is a minor, the statute of limitations typically does not begin until the minor reaches the age of 18.

Government Entities: Claims against government entities have different and often shorter deadlines. In Texas, you may have as little as six months to file a claim against a government entity.

Houston Car Accident Lawyer Discusses Why Timeliness Matters

Filing your claim promptly is crucial for several reasons:

Preservation of Evidence: Over time, evidence can be lost, and witnesses' memories can fade. Acting quickly helps ensure that crucial evidence and witness testimonies are preserved.

Medical Records: Promptly documenting your injuries with a medical professional can create a clear link between the accident and your injuries.

Financial Relief: The sooner you file, the sooner you can potentially receive compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and other expenses.

How a Houston Car Accident Lawyer Can Help

Navigating the intricacies of personal injury law can be daunting, especially when dealing with the aftermath of an accident. A skilled Houston car accident lawyer can provide invaluable assistance in several ways:

Understanding Legal Deadlines: A lawyer will ensure you are aware of all relevant deadlines and help you file your claim promptly.

Gathering Evidence: An attorney can help gather and preserve crucial evidence, such as police reports, medical records, and witness statements.

Negotiating with Insurance Companies: Insurance companies often aim to minimize payouts. A lawyer can negotiate on your behalf to ensure you receive fair compensation.

Legal Representation: If your case goes to court, having a knowledgeable attorney by your side is crucial for presenting a strong case.

Secure a Positive Outcome with Joaquin Jimenez

Getting injured in a car accident can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to navigate the legal process alone. With a commitment to protecting and advocating for you, Houston personal injury lawyer Joaquin Jimenez is here to help. If you need assistance with your Houston personal injury claim, don’t wait. The clock is ticking on your ability to seek compensation. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward securing the justice and compensation you deserve. Call us now to get started.