Los Angeles Car Accident Statute of Limitations

Motor vehicle crashes can result in devastating physical, emotional, and financial losses. If someone else caused the accident that injured you or your loved one, you could have legal grounds to pursue a lawsuit in civil court. If your lawsuit succeeds, the responsible party may have to pay you a settlement or damages to compensate for your losses.

However, practical concerns and the Los Angeles car accident statute of limitations mean you do not have unlimited time to file your legal claim. A skilled local attorney could help guide you through this legal process.

Why Some People Wait Too Long To File a Lawsuit After a Car Crash

After an automobile collision, many people feel overwhelmed and need to focus on their injuries and recovery. After receiving immediate urgent care, you might require visits to doctors and other medical professionals for follow-up care, surgeries, procedures, physical therapy, and psychological support.

Unfortunately, rehabilitation is expensive and can result in substantial medical bills. If your injuries are severe enough to prevent you from working, you might be unable to cover your medical expenses. As an injured party, filing a lawsuit could provide you with the financial means to pay for necessary treatments without worrying about the costs involved.

Speaking to a lawyer about your case as soon as possible is essential. After a car crash, a skilled Los Angeles attorney could help you meet the statutory requirements for your lawsuit, including compliance with the relevant time limitations.

Reasons To Comply With the Statute of Limitations After a Car Crash

While you may be tempted to wait until you have recovered from your injuries before filing a legal claim, waiting can lead to a statutory problem.

Practical Timing Concerns

The best time for an attorney to gather evidence is immediately after a car wreck. Waiting too long to seek legal assistance can make it harder to build a solid claim. People’s memories fade and become less reliable over time, so attorneys should try to get eyewitness statements as soon as possible. Critical evidence can be misplaced or lost. Some people intentionally destroy evidence, such as detailing or painting their car to hide a dent or scratch after an accident.

Statutory Timing Concerns

You need to consider the strict statutory deadlines along with the practical concerns about the quality of evidence. In most automobile wreck claims, people only have two years to file a lawsuit. If one of the vehicles involved is a government vehicle, the other party only has six months. An injured party loses their right to bring a legal claim if they wait beyond the statute of limitations.

A seasoned Los Angeles attorney could explain the relevant statute of limitations and ensure you are in full compliance following a car crash.

Call a Local Attorney About the Motor Vehicle Statute of Limitations in Los Angeles

After a car crash, your primary concern should be your immediate medical needs. However, because of the Los Angeles car accident statute of limitations, you cannot wait too long to decide if filing a lawsuit is right for you.