What is statute of limitations in Texas?

The statute of limitations for personal injury in Texas is the legal time limit you have to file a lawsuit for a personal injury claim. The statute of limitations in Texas varies depending on the type of claim you want to file. Generally, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims in Texas is two years from the date of the accident or injury. This means that you must file your lawsuit within two years of the accident or injury, or you may lose your right to sue for damages.

However, there are exceptions to this general rule. For example, if the person injured is a minor, the statute of limitations may be extended. In some cases, the statute of limitations may be tolled, which means that the clock stops running for a certain period of time. This can happen if the injured person is mentally incompetent or if the defendant has fled the state to avoid being sued.

Why is the personal injury statute of limitations important?

The statute of limitations is important because it sets a deadline for when you can file a lawsuit. Failing to meet this deadline can result in your claim being barred forever. This means that you may lose your right to recover compensation for your injuries, no matter how severe they are or how clear the defendant’s liability is.

Moreover, waiting too long to file a lawsuit can also affect the strength of your case. Memories fade, evidence is lost, and witnesses move away or become harder to locate as time passes. Therefore, it is important to act quickly after an accident or injury to preserve your legal rights and build a strong case.

How to Protect Your Rights:

To protect your rights under the personal injury statute of limitations in Texas, it is important to take the following steps:

1. Seek medical attention: If you are injured, seek medical attention right away. This not only ensures that you receive proper treatment for your injuries, but also creates a record of your injuries and their severity, which can be used as evidence in your case.
2. Consult with an attorney: Contact an experienced personal injury attorney as soon as possible after the accident or injury. An attorney can help you understand your legal rights and options, and can advise you on the best course of action to take.
3. File your lawsuit on time: Be aware of the statute of limitations for your case and make sure to file your lawsuit before the deadline. Missing the deadline can result in your claim being barred forever, so it is important to act quickly to protect your legal rights.

In conclusion, the personal injury statute of limitations in Texas is an important legal concept that sets a deadline for when you can file a lawsuit. Failing to meet this deadline can result in your claim being barred forever, so it is important to act quickly after an accident or injury to protect your legal rights and build a strong case.