When you are injured in a car accident, timing matters. Arizona law places strict deadlines on how long you have to file a claim for injuries or property damage. Missing these deadlines can prevent you from recovering compensation, even if the accident was not your fault. Understanding the statute of limitations can help you protect your rights after a crash. At Law Office Of Robert Andy Rojas, we can provide legal assistance to the Glendale public.

What Is a Statute of Limitations?

A statute of limitations is the legal deadline for filing a lawsuit. In car accident cases, this deadline determines how long an injured person has to bring a claim against the at-fault driver. Once the time limit expires, courts will usually dismiss the case, regardless of its merits.

Arizona’s Time Limit for Personal Injury Claims

In Arizona, most car accident injury claims must be filed within two years from the date of the accident. This deadline applies to claims seeking compensation for medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and other accident-related losses. The clock typically starts running on the day the crash occurred.

Time Limits for Property Damage Claims

Claims for vehicle damage or other property loss from a car accident are also generally subject to a two-year statute of limitations in Arizona. While insurance claims may be handled sooner, the same deadline usually applies if a lawsuit becomes necessary.

Claims Involving Government Entities

If your accident involved a city, county, or state vehicle, different rules apply. Arizona law requires a formal notice of claim to be filed within 180 days of the accident. In addition, any resulting lawsuit must generally be filed within one year. These shorter deadlines make it especially important to act quickly.

Why Acting Quickly Matters

Waiting too long can result in lost evidence, fading witness memories, and missed deadlines. Even though two years may seem like plenty of time, starting the process early can help preserve your claim and allow for a stronger case.

Getting Legal Guidance After an Arizona Car Accident

Determining which deadline applies to your situation is not always straightforward. Issues such as government involvement or delayed discovery of injuries can affect your case. At Law Office Of Robert Andy Rojas, we can provide legal assistance to the Glendale public by helping accident victims understand their options and comply with Arizona’s filing deadlines.