How Long Do You Have to File a Claim After a Car Accident?
Time isn’t just a number when it comes to auto accidents in Florida—it can determine whether or not you get compensated at all. Florida law sets strict deadlines for filing claims after a car crash, and missing them can mean walking away with nothing. At Car Accident Lawyer, we make sure our clients across Tampa, Brandon, Sarasota, and Fort Myers never miss their shot.
Florida’s New Two-Year Rule for Injury Claims
As of March 2023, Florida law gives car accident victims two years from the date of the crash to file a personal injury lawsuit. This is a big change—previously, you had four years. If your accident happened on or after March 24, 2023, the new two-year deadline applies. That clock starts ticking the day of the collision.
If your injury case isn’t filed in time, courts will likely dismiss it. There are a few exceptions. That’s why calling a Car Accident Lawyer as soon as possible after an accident is one of the smartest moves you can make.
What About Property Damage?
You have a bit more breathing room when it comes to vehicle damage. Florida still allows four years to file a claim for property damage. However, if your case involves both injuries and vehicle repairs, it’s best to treat it with the two-year injury timeline in mind. It’s safer—and smarter.
Wrongful Death Claims: A Separate Timeline
If a loved one dies from accident-related injuries, the law gives families two years from the date of death to file a wrongful death lawsuit. That’s not the same as the date of the accident, which can sometimes be earlier. A Car Accident Lawyer handles these cases with sensitivity and urgency, knowing how crucial timing is for grieving families seeking justice.
Other Critical Deadlines
Here’s one many people miss: to receive your Personal Injury Protection (PIP) benefits, you must get medical care within 14 days of the accident. If you don’t, your PIP benefits may be denied entirely. It’s a small window, and a huge deal.
Don’t Risk Losing Your Right to Compensation
Every day you wait after a crash is a day the evidence fades and deadlines creep closer. Whether you’re dealing with a sore back, mounting bills, or insurance runaround, the sooner you call a Car Accident Lawyer, the better. We serve clients throughout Florida—including Wesley Chapel, Cape Coral, and Port Charlotte—and we’re ready to move fast.
Call 813-213-4359 for a free consultation. With a Car Accident Lawyer, you get a legal team that watches the clock, so you don’t have to.
This post was written by a professional at Car Accident Lawyer. Have you been involved in an accident? Secure the expert legal representation you need with a trusted car accident attorney Naples FL. Our dedicated attorneys will take the time to review your case in detail and create personalized strategies to meet your unique circumstances.
