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Legal Deadlines for Filing a Lawsuit
Among the complexities inherent in a lawsuit are the legal deadlines one must follow. Every person injured in any kind of accident has his legal right to file a lawsuit against those responsible for the injuries in the first place. However, every case is subject to a “statute of limitations” that determines certain time limits to filing the legal claim. In most cases, the statute of limitations allows you to file a lawsuit within two years after the accident takes place
Legal Deadline Exceptions
There are some exceptions that may shorten or extend the time for filing a legal lawsuit. For instance, underage individuals injured during an accident can wait to turn 18 and file the legal lawsuit themselves. Other exceptions apply in the case the accident was caused by a government representative. If you or your loved ones want to file a lawsuit against government officials, you will first need to file a notice provision. Some government representatives have incredibly short notice provisions, meaning that you or your loved ones will need to file the notice provision within mere months after the accident in order to move any further in this case
Other Guidelines Affecting Deadlines
Certain legal guidelines can also affect the terms of filing a legal lawsuit. The so-called “statute of repose” may well affect the terms of filing a lawsuit for products that are over 15 years old. In fact, this statute is a very unfair one, working against the interests of the Texas citizens. Instead, it helps foreign companies from countries such as Korea, China, and Japan. Numerous legal attorneys are currently fighting the statute in hopes of changing its terms and conditions in favor of Texas citizens.
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"The stress of understanding and following legal deadlines does not have to fall on your shoulders. Having a qualified and experienced lawyer by your side will ensure your evidence is reviewed properly within the optimal period of time after the accident. Rely on the accident attorneys at Gomez Law Firm for peace of mind that your lawsuit was filed in line with all the legal guidelines and regulations"
Legal Practice Areas
Let's win together
Please feel free to contact us. We will get back to you within 1-2 business days. Or just call us now.
Legal Deadlines After a Car Accident in Houston, TX
If you’ve been injured in a car accident, time is not on your side. In Texas, you only have a limited window to file a claim—and missing that deadline could cost you the compensation you deserve.
At Gomez Law Firm, our experienced Houston car accident attorneys act fast to protect your legal rights and ensure that your case is filed before the statute of limitations expires.
What Is the Legal Deadline to File a Car Accident Lawsuit in Texas?
Under Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code § 16.003, most car accident victims have two (2) years from the date of the crash to file a personal injury lawsuit.
Two-Year Deadline Applies To:
- Personal injury claims (e.g., whiplash, broken bones, TBI)
- Property damage to your vehicle
- Wrongful death lawsuits (2 years from the date of death)
Exceptions That Can Change the Filing Deadline
If the victim is a minor:
The two-year clock doesn’t begin until the minor turns 18.
If the injury wasn’t immediately discovered:
For hidden or delayed injuries, you may qualify for a delayed discovery exception.
Wrongful death claims:
Deadline is 2 years from the date of death, not the crash.
What Happens If You Miss the Statute of Limitations?
- Your claim will likely be dismissed, regardless of how strong your evidence is.
- Insurance companies may use the missed deadline as a defense to deny compensation.
- You lose your ability to negotiate a settlement or go to court.
Don’t wait. The sooner you act, the stronger your case will be.
Who Pays for Emergency Room Bills After a Crash?
In Texas, the at-fault driver’s insurance is typically responsible. However, medical billing may involve:
- Personal Injury Protection (PIP)
- Health insurance (if used)
- Letters of protection (LOPs) through your attorney
We handle the complex billing issues so you can focus on healing.
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Local Representation You Can Trust
We help injury victims across Houston and Harris County, including:
- Downtown Houston
- Galleria & Westchase
- Sharpstown & Alief
- I-10, I-45, and 610 corridor crash victims
📌 Gomez Law Firm
1613 Witte Road,
Houston, TX 77080
📞 Call Now: (713) 868-5528
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
You typically have 2 years from the date of the accident.
In rare cases—like minor injuries, delayed discovery, or wrongful death—the window may shift.
Yes. You may still have time, and we can act quickly to preserve your rights.
Contact us immediately. We’ll review your situation at no cost.
Don’t Miss Your Deadline — Speak With a Lawyer Today
At Gomez Law Firm, we monitor all filing deadlines to ensure your claim is protected. If you’re unsure how much time you have left, call us now—our consultations are free and confidential.
