A car accident in Los Angeles can feel overwhelming. You may need to seek immediate medical care after your accident. You’ll likely need to get your car in for repairs after a collision. It’s tempting to focus solely on recovery, pushing legal concerns associated with your accident to the back burner.
During your recovery, you may wonder how long after your accident you can wait to file your claim in Los Angeles? California requires you to file a car accident claim fairly quickly. Learn more about your legal timeline with the Simmrin Law Group’s car accident lawyers in Los Angeles. We can begin helping you after you call (310) 896-2723.
The Statute of Limitations in California
All lawsuits and legal claims in California are governed by a statute of limitations. The statute of limitations tells you how long you can wait to file a claim to get compensation for your losses after an accident.
The statute of limitations is not the same for every car accident case in California. In fact, you may face a different statute of limitations if you are dealing with:
- A personal injury claim
- A property damage claim
- A claim involving the government
You can review the statute of limitations that applies to your specific case with the professionals at the Simmrin Law Group.
For a free legal consultation, call (310) 896-2723
Time Limits on Personal Injury Claims After a Car Accident
Generally, you will have two years to file a personal injury claim after a car accident in Los Angeles. This means that if you wait longer than two years to file a claim, you will no longer be able to seek compensation for your injuries. A personal injury claim may help you get damages for your:
- Healthcare expenses
- Lost wages
- Lost earning potential
You will also have two years to file a claim if you lost a loved one in a car accident in Los Angeles. We understand that you need time to grieve after the loss of a family member. Our wrongful death lawyers in Los Angeles are prepared to help you build a claim before you run out of time. Just call us at (310) 896-2723 to get started.
Time Limits on Property Damage Claims in Los Angeles
You have a longer amount of time to file a claim for property damage caused by a car accident in Los Angeles. In fact, the court system gives you three years to request compensation for property damage. You may be able to get compensation for:
- Repair costs for your vehicle
- The cost of a new vehicle if your car was totaled
Note that, while you have three years to file a claim, it is recommended that you take steps to get compensation as quickly as possible. Filing a claim quickly can improve your odds of getting compensation, especially as it can allow your lawyer to investigate your case and speak with witnesses before their memories begin to fade.
Time Limits on Claims Involving the Government in Los Angeles
Sometimes, government entities are responsible for car accidents in Los Angeles. You have significantly less time to file a claim if your accident involved the:
- Federal government
- State government
- Local government
In fact, you only have six months to file a claim for any car accident involving the government. Note that cases involving the government can be very difficult to handle on your own. Entities like the police department or highway patrol may aggressively deny your claim, so many sure you get legal help now.
Complete a Free Case Evaluation form now
Start Working on a Car Accident Claim in Los Angeles Today
While you may have up to three years to file a claim after a car accident in Los Angeles, you can improve your odds of getting maximum compensation by reaching out to a lawyer today. The team at the Simmrin Law Group can spring into action when you need help the most.
Allow us to visit the site of your accident, speak with witnesses, and go over police reports about the collision. We can review your medical records and repair bills for your vehicle to ensure all of your losses are covered. We’re prepared to help you file a claim or a lawsuit after a car accident in Los Angeles.
Don’t Wait to File a Claim After Your Car Accident in Los Angeles
You may wait for a period of months or years to file your claim after a car accident in Los Angeles. However, you can also get help right away by contacting the Simmrin Law Group. It’s easy to reach us when you need legal assistance. Just complete our online contact form or call (310) 896-2723.
Speak to our car accident lawyers in Los Angeles now to get a FREE initial case evaluation.
Call or text (310) 896-2723 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form