How Long After a Car Accident Can You Sue in California?

If you’ve been involved in a car accident in California and believe someone else is responsible, you can file a lawsuit as soon as the accident occurs. But, it’ll likely take time for you to gather evidence from your accident to support a strong argument in court.

If your car accident occurred in the San Diego area, speaking to a local car accident lawyer from The Kindley Firm, APC can be helpful if you’re unsure how to move forward with the legal process. Our team will investigate your accident and work to create a strong case. When you go to court, you’ll feel confident proving negligence.

The Statute of Limitations for Personal Injury Claims

The statute of limitations for personal injury claims in California is two years. This means you’ll have two years from when your car accident in San Diego occurs to file a claim in the court system and recover a settlement for any resulting damages. If you don’t file within this two-year deadline, the court won’t hear your case and you won’t have the chance to receive any compensation.

Suing a Government Entity in California

If a government entity is responsible for causing your San Diego car accident, you’ll have six months to file a claim. When filing a claim against a government entity, they can deny your claim. If they do, you’ll have another six months from the date of denial to file an official lawsuit.

Consult a San Diego Car Accident Attorney

Because you typically have two years to file a claim for your car accident, you shouldn’t rush it. It’s important to speak with an attorney about your case and make sure you have strong evidence before moving forward. To speak with a San Diego car accident lawyer from The Kindley Firm, APC, fill out the contact form below or call 619-550-1313 to schedule a free consultation.