Gainesville Car Accident Statute of Limitations

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Car accidents can be scary and leave lasting ramifications on those involved. The aftermath of a collision could be even more tolling than the crash itself, including healing from catastrophic injuries and trying to recover compensation for losses. There are many legal aspects of an auto wreck that could impact a person’s ability to recover compensation for their damages.

One of the most prominent aspects that could affect compensation is the Gainesville car accident statute of limitations. The statute of limitations refers to the time limit someone has to file a claim following their wreck. A skilled auto crash attorney at Smith Hulsey could help someone understand how this deadline could affect their case.

What is the Statute of Limitations in a Vehicle Accident Case?

The statute of limitations is how long someone has until they have to file a lawsuit. In Gainesville, a plaintiff has a time limit of two years from the date of their automobile crash to file a lawsuit to preserve their claim. A diligent attorney could help someone understand their time limits and file accordingly.

Exceptions to Filing Deadlines in Gainesville

For car wrecks, the deadline is in Gainesville is two years from the date of the accident. For people who drive vehicles for a living, they might be able to file a worker’s compensation case. The time limit for a worker’s compensation case is one year from the date of the collision, two years from the last receipt of an indemnity benefit, or one year from the last date of medical treatment.

If someone dies in a car wreck, surviving family members could file a wrongful death claim. In wrongful death cases, there is two years from the date of the crash to file for compensation. The big difference in local statute of limitations is the general personal injury cases.

Deadlines for Minors

For a minor, the deadline does not run. If the injured person is a minor, then the statute does not run until they reach the age of 18 years old. For instance, if someone is underage, then the statute of limitations will not run. The statute will start to run from the date they reach the age of 18 years old, and from that date forward, they have two years.

Calculating the Deadline for Filing

If there are criminal charges that arise out of the wreck, a plaintiff can have two years from the termination of the criminal case. However, people should not rely on there being a criminal case, as that may not happen. To be safe, they should count their deadline as two years from the date of the crash.

Why it is Important to Work with a Skilled Attorney

Ultimately, it is important to reach out to someone at Smith Hulsey because the statute of limitations for a motor vehicle collision in Gainesville can be tricky. Many times, two years seems like a long time, but it actually is not. Because of this, it can sneak up on a claimant, and if they are not careful and they do not properly file, they entirely lose their right to compensation.

A well-versed attorney has the knowledge and experience a plaintiff needs to file their claim in a timely manner. They could help someone make sure they have all the necessary aspects needed to create the best chance of a positive case resolution.

Call a Gainesville Attorney about Car Accident Statute of Limitations Now

If you were hurt in a car crash, you are likely overwhelmed with your injuries and trying to recover rightful compensation. You do not have to fight for your rights alone. A dedicated Smith Hulsey attorney is ready to be your ally and protect your rights. Not only do they have vast knowledge about all aspects of an automobile wreck case, but they know the Gainesville car accident statute of limitations, too. Entrust your case with a respected legal team. Call our office now to learn more.

Smith Hulsey Law

Smith Hulsey Law
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