Taking Early Action: The Best Way to Protect Your Interests
Doctors like to give injuries time to heal. If you visit a doctor for back pain, for example, they may tell you to ice it, or to apply heat, and to come back later if it doesn't go away. At the next visit, they may perform some tests. They may recommend physical therapy or stretching exercises. Months later, they may suggest surgery.
Lawyers do not have as much time. In Texas, there is a two year statute of limitations on personal injury cases, which means you only have two years following the accident to file a lawsuit. There are a few exceptions, but these exceptions are limited. Most people lose the chance to take legal action after two years.
At the Law Offices of Tyler & Peery, in San Antonio, we often remind potential clients that time passes quickly — especially because the most effective trial preparation occurs directly after the accident. Evidence is strongest when skid marks are still left on the road, before damaged cars are repaired, and before witnesses' memories fade with time.
If you have been injured in an accident, it is critical to begin preparing for litigation right away. Meet with an attorney before you talk to the other side's insurance company. Take pictures. Document your injuries. Even if you never go to court, taking early action is the best way to protect your rights.
The Statute of Limitations in Texas Personal Injury Cases
While the statute of limitations in Texas personal injury cases is two years, there are some exceptions to the limitations period that can be difficult to meet. For minors, for example, the statute of limitations does not start running until the child turns 18 — even if the accident happened while the child was much younger.
If you have been judged incompetent for a period of time or if the person who caused the accident (the defendant) was out of state for a period of time, the time limit in your case may have been affected as well.
It is always worth talking with a lawyer about your situation — even if you think the statute of limitations may have passed. Initial consultations with our attorneys are free and confidential, so you have nothing to lose by asking about the time limits for bringing your injury case. You may even discover that certain things can be done to extend the time available to you.
Contact Us As Soon As Possible
At the Law Offices of Tyler & Peery, we begin working on cases as soon as possible to improve your chances of success. To talk with us about how a personal injury has affected your life, contact a lawyer at our San Antonio law firm. Initial consultations are free and confidential.
