As a general rule, the sooner you act after an accident, the better. Insurance claims should be started as early as possible. Waiting too long allows insurance companies to question your injuries, point to gaps in treatment, or argue that something else caused your symptoms.
When does the deadline start?
In most cases, the clock starts running on the date the accident happened. That date matters, even if symptoms show up later.
Each state sets its own deadline, called a statute of limitations. Some states allow one year to file a lawsuit; others allow two or more. Once that deadline passes, your ability to recover compensation may be permanently lost.
What happens if you wait too long?
Missing the legal deadline can end a case entirely. Even if the injury is real and the other party was clearly at fault, courts will not hear the case once the deadline has passed. Delays can also weaken insurance claims by reducing leverage and making injuries harder to prove.
What you should do next
If you've been injured and aren't sure how much time you have left, it's important to get clarity early. A short conversation can help you understand where you stand and what steps make sense next.
Contact us to find out how much time you have and how to protect your claim.