What Is the Statute of Limitations for a Florida Auto Injury Claim?

One of the first things you’ll need to consider when filing an auto injury claim is the statute of limitations. It might sound like a complex legal concept, but it’s actually quite simple. While the idea is straightforward, the statute of limitations has the potential to prevent you from suing and receiving compensation. So what exactly is the statute of limitations for Florida auto injuries, and how might it affect your ability to receive a financial settlement for medical expenses, missed wages, emotional distress, and any other damages you might have experienced?

What Is the Statute of Limitations?

The statute of limitations is essentially a time limit. Once the statute of limitations expires, you cannot file a claim or sue. There are different statutes of limitations for different situations. For example, you might experience a different statute of limitations if you’re suing the government compared to suing a private citizen. You might also experience a different statute of limitations for an auto accident compared to a medical malpractice claim or a product liability claim.

What is the Statute of Limitations for a Florida Car Accident Claim?

Generally speaking, the statute of limitations for a car accident claim is four years. This means that after the day of your accident, you have four years to file your personal injury lawsuit. Once that time limit expires, you lose the right to sue. Although four years might seem like a long time, it’s always a good idea to get the ball rolling as soon as possible. Evidence can disappear, and witnesses may move out of the state or die.

Exceptions to the Rule

There are also a number of exceptions to the general four-year statute of limitations. These exceptions all revolve around the same basic fact: The “clock only starts ticking” after you become aware of your injuries. This means that if you never become aware of your injuries, you can file a lawsuit long after the four-year period expires. For example, you might be in a coma for ten years after your car accident. Or perhaps you suffered a serious head injury that left you with memory loss (otherwise known as amnesia).

Where Can I Find a Qualified Personal Injury Attorney in Fort Walton Beach?

If you’ve been searching for a qualified, experienced personal injury attorney in Fort Walton Beach, look no further than Browning Law Firm, P.A. Over the years, we have helped numerous defendants who have been harmed in auto accidents. We know that the statute of limitations can pose serious issues for victims, and the only way to approach this situation confidently is with proper legal guidance. Book a consultation with us today, and we can assess your unique situation and determine how the statute of limitations might affect your ability to sue. Reach out today.

Sources

1. https://dictionary.cambridge.org/dictionary/english/amnesia
2. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/coma/symptoms-causes/syc-20371099#:~:text=Coma%20is%20a%20state%20of,Coma%20is%20a%20medical%20emergency.

Browning Law Firm, P.A.

418 Racetrack Rd NE, Ste B
Fort Walton Beach, FL 32547
850-344-1736

If you have further questions about this article or legal concerns, call 800-672-3103