In California, it may be too late to get a lawyer for a car accident if the statute of limitations has passed. For most personal injury cases, you have two years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit.

In California, it may be too late to get a lawyer for a car accident if the statute of limitations has passed. For most personal injury cases, you have two years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit. If you wait longer than that, you typically lose the legal right to pursue compensation, no matter how valid your claim is.

There are exceptions, such as when injuries are not immediately discovered, in which case the clock might start from the date of discovery. If your accident involves a government vehicle or public agency, the time limit is even shorter: you usually have just six months to file an administrative claim.

If you’re unsure whether it’s too late, it’s still worth reaching out to an attorney as soon as possible. A lawyer can assess your case and confirm whether you still have time to act.

To get answers specific to your situation, contact The Law Office of Brent D. Rawlings at www.ourclientswin.com. They can help protect your rights before it is really too late.

Can you sue someone for a car accident without injury?

You can sue someone for a car accident even if there were no physical injuries, especially if you experienced property damage, financial loss, or emotional distress as a result of the crash. In many cases, the focus of the lawsuit would shift from medical expenses to repair costs, rental car fees, diminished vehicle value, towing charges, and any other financial burdens caused by the accident.

While injury-related claims often lead to higher compensation, a claim based on property damage or negligence can still be valid. For example, if the at-fault driver’s actions were reckless, such as running a red light or texting while driving, you may have grounds for a lawsuit to recover out-of-pocket expenses.

Some individuals also sue for emotional distress or loss of use of their vehicle, although these types of damages are harder to prove without physical injury. Documentation, including repair invoices, police reports, and photographs, is essential.

Consulting with a lawyer can help determine if your claim is strong enough to pursue in court or through insurance negotiations.

Do you need a car accident lawyer?

Whether or not you need a car accident lawyer depends on the circumstances of your case, but in many situations, having legal representation is a smart decision, especially if the accident caused injuries, significant vehicle damage, or a dispute over fault. A lawyer can help protect your rights, deal with insurance companies, and ensure you’re not pressured into accepting a low settlement offer.

Suppose your injuries are serious, long-term, or involve future medical care. In that case, a lawyer can help calculate the full value of your claim, including medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and future expenses. Even if the accident appears minor at first, some injuries may not become apparent for days or weeks, making early legal guidance crucial.

In cases where fault is contested or the other driver is uninsured or underinsured, a lawyer’s help is even more valuable. They can guide you through the claims process, gather evidence, and negotiate effectively on your behalf. Ultimately, having a car accident lawyer gives you a better chance at receiving fair and full compensation.