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If you find yourself having difficulty after an accident in Florida caused by the negligence of another party, you’re not alone. In such trying times, understanding your legal rights becomes paramount. Though you may seek compensation for your injuries, knowing complex legal procedures and timelines is important. How long after an accident can you sue?
When the incident occurs, missing even one deadline can irreversibly impact your ability to pursue rightful compensation. Thus, it’s imperative to grasp the intricate legal proceeding timelines and deadlines that govern your case. Failing to take timely action could mean forfeiting your chance to seek damages. This burdens you with the consequences of someone else’s negligence. Don’t let this opportunity slip away; empower yourself with the knowledge and guidance needed to protect your rights and secure the compensation you deserve.
How Long After an Accident Can You Claim Injury in Florida?
How long after an accident can you sue for injuries you experience? The amount of time you have to file a lawsuit in Florida depends on the type of case and the specific circumstances involved. In most personal injury cases, the statute of limitations is two years from the accident or injury date. This can include car accidents, slip and fall incidents, wrongful death cases, and medical malpractice,
You must file your lawsuit within two years of the date the accident occurred or discovered your injuries. If you fail to file your case within this time limit, the court will likely dismiss your lawsuit. This can make you lose your right to seek compensation for your losses.
Exceptions to the Two-Year Statute of Limitations
While the two-year statute of limitations applies to most personal injury cases, there are exceptions to this rule in Florida law:
- Claims against government entities — If you claim against a city, county, or state government agency in Florida, you must provide written notice. This should be done within three years of the accident or injury. The government entity then has 180 days to respond to your claim before you can file a lawsuit.
- Cases involving fraud or concealment — If the at-fault party engaged in fraud or concealment that prevented you from discovering your injuries or the cause of your accident, the statute of limitations may have paused. This “toll” or pause will be in effect until you discovered or reasonably should have discovered the fraud or concealment.
Unsure how long after an accident can you sue if you are confused about the two-year statute of limitations? Consult with an experienced Florida personal injury attorney to understand the specific deadlines that apply to your case.
Legal Deadlines for Injury Lawsuits in Florida
How long after an accident can you sue? In addition to the statute of limitations, there are other legal deadlines and requirements to meet when pursuing an injury claim in Florida:
- PIP insurance claims — If you have suffered injuries in a car accident in Florida, you must seek medical treatment within 14 days of the accident. This qualifies you for Personal Injury Protection (PIP) benefits under your insurance policy.
- Notice to insurers — Most insurance policies require you to provide prompt notice of an accident or injury to the insurance company. Please give timely notice to avoid the denial of your claim.
- Preservation of evidence — Gather and preserve evidence related to your accident and injuries as soon as possible, as these can disappear or become difficult to obtain. This may include photographs of the accident scene, witness statements, and medical records documenting your injuries and treatment.
- Mitigation of damages — You are legally obligated to take reasonable steps to mitigate your damages after an accident. This includes seeking medical treatment and following your doctor’s advice. Failing to do so can reduce the amount of compensation you can recover.
Still unsure how long after an accident can you sue? Working with an experienced personal injury attorney helps you handle these legal deadlines and requirements. They can also ensure you build a strong case and protect your right to seek compensation.
The Importance of Acting Promptly After an Accident
How long after an accident can you sue, if you fail to file it right after the accident? Though the two-year statute of limitations can seem like an ample period of time to file, take action as soon as possible. This protects your legal rights and maximizes your chances of recovering fair compensation for your losses. Some of the reasons to act promptly include:
- Preserving evidence — Over time, physical evidence from the accident scene can disappear, witnesses’ memories can fade, and medical records can become harder to obtain. The sooner you gather evidence, the stronger your case will likely be.
- Documenting your injuries — Seek prompt medical attention after an accident. This ensures that you receive the treatment you need and creates a clear record of your injuries and their connection to the accident.
- Avoiding insurance company tactics — Insurance companies often employ tactics to minimize the value of your claim. These tactics include offering low initial settlements or disputing the severity of your injuries. The sooner you have an attorney on your side, the better protection you will have from these tactics.
- Allowing time for negotiation — Most personal injury cases in Florida settle out of court. This is done through negotiation with the at-fault party’s insurance company. Starting the process early allows your attorney ample time to build a strong case, negotiate for a fair settlement, and file a lawsuit.
How Jurewitz Law Group Injury & Accident Lawyers Can Help with Your Florida Personal Injury Case
How long after an accident can you sue? At Jurewitz Law Group Injury & Accident Lawyers, our dedicated team of Tampa personal injury attorneys understands the importance of acting promptly after an auto accident. We resolve to protect your legal rights and pursue the compensation you deserve. Our legal team offers compassionate, personalized representation tailored to your unique needs and goals. Our law firm has the knowledge, experience, and resources to file a claim and observe the legal process on your behalf.
If you have suffered injuries in an accident in Florida, seek the legal action you need for your personal injury lawsuit. Contact Jurewitz Law Group Injury & Accident Lawyers at (619) 233-5020 to schedule your free consultation for your personal injury claim. Learn how our skilled personal injury lawyers can help you pursue the compensation you deserve within the legal timelines that apply.
