Practice Areas

	Vehicle Accidents
	Slip and Fall
	Social Security Disability Benefits

How long do I have to bring my claim?

Q: How long do I have to bring my claim?

A: The statute of limitations for automobile accidents is generally three years from the date of the accident. This means a formal complaint must be filed with the appropriate Court or the claim is lost. Much work must go in to the claim well in advance of this deadline. However, cases involving death typically have a shorter limitation period.

Care must be taken to confirm the statute of limitation that applies to your case. The time for bringing a claim can vary depending on a person's age, mental state, entity against which a claim is brought, type of claim and type of vehicle involved.

For example, a minor's three–year period may not start to run for several years. A person injured in a motorcycle accident may have a two–year limitation period. A death claim has a shorter period. A claim against a third party for negligently allowing someone to operate their vehicle may have a two–year limit. Some claims against drunk drivers or claims for punitive damage may have much shorter limits. A claim against a Colorado Governmental entity has a six–month very specific notification requirement. There are other factors that can make the statute of limitations one year.

As you can see, there are many factors that can affect the time limits that apply. You should contact a personal injury lawyer to see what period of limitation exists in your claim. Failure to do so can unknowingly cost the right to pursue your claim.