Sorting through the hours, days, weeks, and months after an auto accident in California can be challenging and overwhelming, especially if you have sustained moderate to severe injuries. As you focus on your physical recovery, you may also struggle with medical bills piling up, lost wages, and other financial complications stemming from the accident. While you have the right to pursue compensation following a car accident in Riverside County, waiting too long to take action can put you at risk of a rejected or invalid claim. Let’s take a look at when and how you should pursue an auto accident claim in California.
California’s Statute of Limitations on Auto Accident Claims
Under California law, most personal injury cases must be filed within a two-year window, starting from the date of the injury. This window, known as the statute of limitations, gives injury victims two years to initiate a claim. According to the California Code of Civil Procedure section 335.1, a person has a two-year window in which to file “an action for assault, battery, or injury to…an individual caused by the wrongful act or neglect of another.” Essentially, if someone else’s negligence caused you harm, you have two years during which to initiate a compensation claim.
What Happens After the Statute of Limitations Passes?
Unfortunately, if you wait too long to bring an auto accident claim, you may forfeit the opportunity to recover the compensation you need to get your life back on track. There are certain exceptions to the two-year statute of limitations in rare cases, but it’s always in your best interest to initiate the process as soon as possible. Working with an experienced auto accident attorney is a great way to ensure your claim moves forward while you focus on your physical recovery.
How a Trusted Temecula Auto Accident Lawyer Can Help
Dealing with the aftermath of an auto accident injury can be disorienting and chaotic. You should prioritize your physical recovery first and foremost, so give yourself the time and space you need to do so by working with an experienced auto accident lawyer. Your attorney will assess the specifics of your case, answer your questions, address your concerns, and determine the best course of action to negotiate a favorable settlement. The sooner you move forward with a car accident lawyer, the more time you’ll have to build a strong and successful claim.
Call Hales & Associates, A Professional Law Corporation, today at (951) 489-3320 to discuss your situation with a dedicated Temecula auto accident lawyer.