It goes without saying that car accidents can be utterly distressing events. Many people grapple with physical injuries, emotional stress and financial burdens after a crash.
If you find yourself in such a situation after a Georgia car accident, you need to understand the time limit for pursuing legal action.
Statute of limitations
The law sets a specific time limit, known as the statute of limitations, for filing a lawsuit after a car accident. This legal timeframe serves as a strict deadline for pursuing compensation. In the state of Georgia, affected individuals generally have two years from the date of the accident to initiate a legal claim. Waiting beyond this period may result in the forfeiture of your right to seek compensation.
Property damage claims
Apart from personal injuries, car accidents often result in property damage. If you seek compensation for vehicle repairs or replacements, Georgia allows a four-year window to file a property damage claim. This period starts from the date of the accident. Keep in mind that this timeframe specifically applies to property-related matters and does not extend to personal injury claims.
Exceptions to the rule
While the general rule is a two-year statute of limitations for personal injury claims, certain circumstances can alter this timeframe. For instance, if the accident involves a government entity, the process may differ.
There were 1,664 traffic fatalities in Georgia in 2020, making it the 4th-most dangerous state in the country in terms of car accidents. Keeping in mind that crashes can be so devastating, it is clearly important that you claim the compensation you deserve as soon as possible so you can make a quick return to your normal daily life.