At LA Injury Attorneys, we understand how stressful it can be to deal with an injury caused by someone else’s negligence. Whether you were hurt in a car accident, a slip and fall, or another incident, knowing how long you have to file a claim is critical. The California statute of limitations for personal injury claims determines how much time you have to take legal action. Missing this deadline can mean losing your right to compensation entirely. Our team in Burbank works with clients across Los Angeles, Glendale, and Pasadena to ensure every case is handled within the legal timeframe.
Understanding the California Personal Injury Statute of Limitations
In California, most personal injury claims must be filed within two years from the date of the injury. This rule applies to cases involving auto accidents, pedestrian injuries, and other negligence-related incidents. However, certain situations can extend or shorten this time period. For example, if the injury was not discovered immediately, the “discovery rule” may allow you additional time to file. On the other hand, claims against government entities often require filing within six months.
It’s important to act quickly because evidence like medical records and witness statements can become harder to collect over time. Our team at LA Injury Attorneys guides clients through every step of the legal process to ensure no critical deadlines are missed.
Common Cases Affected by the Statute of Limitations
Different types of personal injury cases fall under this law, and understanding the timeline for your case is essential. We regularly help clients with:
- Auto Accidents and rideshare claims
- Slip, Trip, & Fall injuries caused by unsafe property conditions
- Wrongful Death cases where families seek justice for a lost loved one
If you’ve been injured in any of these situations, filing your claim promptly gives us the best chance to secure maximum compensation. Our experience as former insurance adjusters and defense attorneys gives us an advantage when dealing with insurance companies that may try to delay or deny your claim.
Exceptions and Special Circumstances
There are some exceptions that can affect how the statute of limitations applies. For example, if the injured person is a minor, the time limit may be paused until they turn 18. Similarly, if the injury wasn’t immediately apparent, California’s discovery rule allows the clock to start when the injury is discovered or should have been discovered.
We’ve seen many cases where clients waited too long, thinking they had more time. Unfortunately, once the statute of limitations expires, the courts typically will not accept the case. That’s why it’s essential to reach out to an attorney as soon as possible.
How LA Injury Attorneys Can Help
At LA Injury Attorneys, we take pride in protecting the rights of injured Californians. Our firm’s founder, Alex Sarajian, started this practice to fight back against insurance companies that delay justice. With offices in Burbank, we serve clients throughout nearby cities such as Los Angeles, Glendale, and Pasadena.
When you work with us, you get a dedicated legal team that understands every aspect of California’s personal injury laws. We handle every detail, from gathering evidence to negotiating settlements. Customer satisfaction is our number one priority, and you don’t pay unless you win. Our proven track record of million-dollar verdicts and settlements speaks to our commitment to justice.
If you’ve been injured in an accident and need to understand your legal rights under California’s statute of limitations, contact our Burbank office today. Acting quickly could make all the difference in your recovery and your case outcome.