Statute of Limitations for Personal Injury Claims in California: What You Need to Know
Suffering a personal injury can be a traumatic experience. Whether it be a car accident, slip and fall, or any other type of incident, the physical, emotional, and financial toll of such an experience can stay with you for years to come. If you’re thinking about filing a personal injury claim in California, it’s important to know that there is a statute of limitations, or a time limit to file a lawsuit, that you must adhere to. In this blog post, we’ll discuss everything you need to know about the statute of limitations for personal injury claims in California and how to ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve.
What is the Statute of Limitations for Personal Injury Claims in California?
In California, there is a two-year statute of limitations for personal injury claims. This means that you have two years from the date of the injury to file a lawsuit. If you fail to file within this timeframe, you may lose your right to pursue compensation for your injuries. It’s important to note that this time period may vary depending on the type of injury and the circumstances surrounding the incident, so it’s always best to consult with an experienced personal injury attorney.
What Happens if You Miss the Statute of Limitations?
Missing the statute of limitations for a personal injury claim can have serious consequences. If you fail to file within the applicable timeframe, the defendant in your case can file a motion to dismiss, and the court will likely grant it. This means that you will be unable to proceed with your lawsuit, and you won’t be able to receive compensation for your injuries.
What Factors can Affect Your Statute of Limitations?
As previously mentioned, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims in California can vary depending on the circumstances surrounding the incident. Some factors that can affect your statute of limitations include the type of injury you sustained, the age of the injured party, and the type of defendant involved in your case. For example, claims against government entities may have different time limits and notice requirements. That’s why, when filing a personal injury claim, it is important to consult with a knowledgeable attorney who can guide you through the entire process.
Why Contacting a Personal Injury Attorney as soon as Possible after an Injury is Important?
If you have suffered a personal injury, it’s important that you contact a personal injury attorney as soon as possible. An attorney can help you understand the statute of limitations for your particular case and take the necessary steps to prepare a lawsuit within the prescribed time limit. Furthermore, an experienced attorney can help you negotiate with insurance companies and achieve a fair settlement.
Suffering a personal injury can be a challenging experience that’s never easy. However, understanding the statute of limitations for personal injury claims in California is essential. At Wagner Zemming Christensen, LLP, we have years of experience helping clients receive the compensation they deserve.
Riverside Personal Injury Attorneys
If you’ve suffered a personal injury in Riverside, California, contact Wagner Zemming Christensen, LLP today. We’ll review your case with you and guide you through every step of the personal injury claims process, ensuring that you have the strongest case possible. Get in touch with us today by calling 951-686-4800.