Car accidents are unexpected and stressful events that can leave you with physical injuries, emotional scars, and financial burdens. After an accident, you might wonder how long you have to file a lawsuit to recover compensation for your damages. The timeline to sue is critical because you could lose your right to seek justice if you miss it. This article will focus on the time limits for suing after a car accident in Maryland, providing you with the information you need to make informed decisions.
Understanding the Statute of Limitations
In Maryland, the statute of limitations dictates the time frame you must file a lawsuit. For car accidents, this is typically three years from the date of the accident. This rule applies to personal injury claims as well as property damage claims. After this period, you generally cannot sue the at-fault driver or their insurance company for compensation. It’s important to note that the clock starts ticking the day the accident occurs. Therefore, it is crucial to act promptly to ensure you don’t miss this deadline.
Exceptions to the Statute of Limitations
While three years is the standard timeframe, there are a few exceptions where the deadline might be extended:
- Minor victims: If the injured party is a minor (under 18 years old), the statute of limitations does not begin until they reach the age of 18. This means they have until their 21st birthday to file a lawsuit.
- Mentally incapacitated victims: If the victim is declared mentally incapacitated at the time of the accident, the statute of limitations may be paused until they regain capacity.
- Hit-and-run accidents: If the at-fault driver is unidentified, such as in a hit-and-run case, there might be extensions based on when the at-fault party is found. However, filing insurance claims promptly and consulting with an attorney for guidance is crucial.
Understanding the exceptions to the statute of limitations is crucial, as they can provide additional time to file a lawsuit, ensuring that unique circumstances don’t prevent you from seeking the justice and compensation you deserve.
Acting Quickly is Important
Regardless of the exceptions, acting quickly after a car accident is essential. Here are a few reasons why:
- Preserving evidence: Over time, evidence can be lost, destroyed, or become less reliable. Witnesses might forget details, and crucial evidence, such as surveillance footage, might be erased. Acting quickly helps ensure all necessary evidence is gathered and preserved for your case.
- Building a strong case: The sooner you begin the legal process, the more time your attorney will have to build a strong case. This includes interviewing witnesses, consulting with experts, and reviewing medical records.
- Peace of mind: Starting your case early helps provide peace of mind, knowing that the legal aspects are being handled, allowing you to focus on recovery.
By acting quickly after a car accident, you enhance your chances of gathering crucial evidence, building a strong case, and ultimately securing the compensation you deserve for your recovery and peace of mind.
Contact the Personal Injury Lawyers at Alpert Schreyer Personal Injury Lawyers in Maryland for Help Today
For more information, please contact Alpert Schreyer Personal Injury Lawyers to schedule a confidential consultation with a personal injury lawyer. Our team is available to assist clients in Lanham, Frederick, Rockville, Waldorf, Annapolis, and Lexington Park, Maryland.
We proudly serve Charles County, Prince George County its surrounding areas. Visit our law offices at:
Alpert Schreyer Personal Injury Lawyers – Waldorf Office
8 Post Office Rd
Waldorf, MD 20602
(301) 932-9997
Available 24/7
Alpert Schreyer Personal Injury Lawyers – Lanham Office
4600 Forbes Blvd Ste #200
Lanham, MD 20706
(301) 936-0011
Available 24/7