Car Accident Statute Of Limitations In Georgia
Car accidents can cause significant physical, emotional, and financial damage to the people involved. In Georgia, like other states, there is a legal time limit for filing a lawsuit after a car accident. This time limit is known as the statute of limitations. In this blog, we will discuss the statute of limitations for filing a car accident claim in Georgia and what it means for your legal rights.
What is the Statute of Limitations?
The statute of limitations is a legal concept that exists to ensure that lawsuits are filed in a timely manner, and that cases are not delayed indefinitely. It helps to protect the legal rights of both parties involved in a dispute. The statute of limitations in Georgia, for filing a car accident claim, is two years from the date of the accident.
What Happens if You Don’t File Your Claim in Time?
If you do not file your claim within the two-year statute of limitations, you will be barred from pursuing legal action against the other driver or their insurance company. This means that you will be unable to recover damages for any injuries or losses you suffered as a result of the accident. It is important to note that the statute of limitations applies regardless of whether you have a valid claim or not. Once the time limit has expired, you will no longer be able to file a lawsuit.
There are several reasons why it is important to file your car accident claim within the statute of limitations. For one, it ensures that you do not miss out on the opportunity to seek compensation for your injuries and losses. This is especially crucial in cases where the injuries sustained are severe and require ongoing medical treatment, as medical expenses can quickly add up.
Additionally, filing your claim within the statute of limitations allows you to gather and preserve evidence to support your case. This includes photographs of the accident scene, witness statements, medical records, and police reports. The longer you wait to file your claim, the more difficult it may be to obtain this evidence, as witnesses may forget important details, and evidence may become lost or destroyed.
If you are uncertain about whether or not you have a valid claim, it is still important to consult with an experienced car accident attorney. An attorney can evaluate your case and provide you with guidance on your legal options. They can also help you navigate the legal process and ensure that your rights are protected.
Exceptions to the Statute of Limitations
There are some exceptions to the statute of limitations for filing a car accident claim in Georgia. For example, if the injured party is a minor, the statute of limitations does not begin until they turn 18 years old. Additionally, if the injured party is mentally incompetent, the statute of limitations may not apply until they are declared competent.
Another exception is when the at-fault driver leaves the state after the accident. In this case, the statute of limitations may be extended to allow the injured party more time to file a claim. Furthermore, if the accident involves a government entity, such as a city or state agency, the statute of limitations may be shorter or longer than two years, depending on the circumstances.
Why You Should Contact an Attorney as Soon as Possible
If you have been injured in a car accident, it is essential to contact an experienced car accident attorney as soon as possible. The attorney can help you understand your legal rights and determine the statute of limitations for your case. They will also help you gather evidence to support your claim, negotiate with the insurance company, and represent you in court if necessary.
Delaying contacting an attorney can be detrimental to your case. Evidence can be lost or destroyed over time, and witnesses may forget crucial details. Additionally, insurance companies may try to offer you a low settlement in the hopes that you will accept it and waive your right to sue. An attorney can help you avoid these pitfalls and ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve.
The statute of limitations for filing a car accident claim in Georgia is two years from the date of the accident. If you fail to file your claim within this time limit, you will lose your legal right to pursue compensation for your damages. However, there are exceptions to the statute of limitations, such as when the injured party is a minor or mentally incompetent, or when the at-fault driver leaves the state after the accident. If you have been injured in a car accident, it is essential to contact an experienced attorney as soon as possible to protect your legal rights and ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve.
How Jackson Hagood Can Help
If you have been involved in a Car Accident in Atlanta, it is important to speak with our experienced car accident lawyers in Atlanta GA, to determine who is at fault. Jackson Hagood Injury Lawyers can help you investigate the circumstances of the accident and gather evidence to support your claim. Hire an experienced Car Accident lawyer and get the justice you deserve. Read how an attorney can help you with your case. Contact us today for a free consultation.
