Car accident recovery can often be a long road. There are doctor office visits, surgeries, missed work, and property damage to deal with, among many other things. Although victims are often busy dealing with the aftermath, it’s important to remember that there may be a time limit to pursue compensation for damages caused by accidents that weren’t the victim’s fault. Also known as the statute of limitations, these laws limit the amount of time a victim has to pursue compensation.
Pennsylvania’s Statute of Limitations for Car Accidents
In the state of Pennsylvania, car accident victims have just two years to file a lawsuit. Filing within the state’s statute of limitations is critical because it may be your only option to recover damages. The statute of limitations serves to bring swift justice to victims as well as preserve evidence in car accident cases.
Car Accident Statute of Limitations Exceptions in PA
Of course, there are a few exceptions to Pennsylvania’s statute of limitations, and it all depends on the circumstances of your case. For example, if a minor is injured in the accident, the statute of limitations does not begin until his or her 18th birthday. Other exceptions include accidents involving government employees or those that result in accidental death. It’s important that you discuss your case with an attorney as soon as possible in order to meet state deadlines and requirements for recovering compensation.
Filing a Claim vs. Suing After a Car Accident
There are significant differences between filing an insurance claim for damages and suing. Typically, pursuing compensation through insurance is the first method of receiving compensation for any losses you incurred due to the accident such as medical bills or loss of income. When you file a claim, you present evidence to your own insurance; or, if the accident wasn’t your fault, your claim must go through the other driver’s insurance company. You may wish to hire a car accident attorney to communicate and negotiate on your behalf in order to avoid common mistakes and ensure you receive fair compensation. Often, though, insurance companies offer settlements that don’t cover all of your damages. You or your attorney can negotiate, but when that fails, your next option is to take the case to court.
Filing a lawsuit for a car accident in Philadelphia requires the expertise of a licensed attorney. Remember that it’s not just your insurance claim that must fall within PA’s statute of limitations. The date you begin your lawsuit must also meet state deadlines in order to be taken to court. Throughout the process, your attorney will work closely with you to gather additional evidence, calculate total damages, ,represent you in court, and advocate for you as you pursue justice.
Discuss Your Options with a Pennsylvania Car Accident Attorney
Understanding all the paperwork and deadlines needed to sue after a car accident can be overwhelming for victims. That’s why you should schedule a free consultation with a member of the Jason Javie Law Office as soon as possible after your accident. Our experienced law team can work with you through every step of the process to achieve the best possible outcome and help you get the compensation you deserve. Contact us today to get started.