Understanding the Statute of Limitations After a West Palm Beach Car Accident

If you experienced injuries in an accident caused by someone else, you have the right to pursue damages. 

It’s smart to hire car accident lawyers West Palm Beach if you find yourself in this situation to help prove negligence, determine liability, and show why you deserve a certain settlement offer. 

While you may not realize that you have a limited amount of time to take legal action. This limited time is called a statute of limitations. Understanding the amount of time you have to file a claim will help you protect your legal rights to recover damages from the negligent party. 

Understanding the Statute of Limitations in Florida 

In the state of Florida, you have four years to file legal action after a car accident caused by a negligent party. 

The statute of limitations is the time you must file legal action. Usually, the purpose of these laws is to resolve legal disputes quickly. Also, statutes of limitations work to reduce fraudulent or frivolous claims. 

If you don’t take legal action within four years, you will lose the right to seek justice or to recover compensation. While there are some exceptions, they are rare. 

Potential Exceptions to the Statute of Limitations in Florida 

Usually, you are required to file your personal injury lawsuit within four years of the accident. However, there are some exceptions to this. If an exception applies to your case or situation, then the time limit you have to file your case may be changed. 

If the accident was fatal, then family members of the deceased individual have just two years to file a wrongful death claim. Sometimes, there are limited extensions allowed by law when it comes to filing a car accident claim if the victim had diminished mental competency or was a minor. 

It’s best to speak to car accident lawyer in West Palm Beach to discover if these exceptions apply to your situation. 

Should You Hire Car Accident Lawyers West Palm Beach?

The law does not require you to hire car accident lawyers West Palm Beach. While this is true, having legal representation can help you recover the full amount of compensation you are entitled to. Choosing an experienced and reputable attorney to help with your case means you have an advocate on your side, fighting for your rights. In this situation, their goal will be to hold the at-fault party accountable for their actions to ensure you receive the full amount of compensation you are entitled to. 

Also, hiring a lawyer means that you have someone ensuring you adhere to the deadlines regarding personal injury claims. Trying to navigate the complex legal process alone is a lot for anyone but can be almost impossible as you try to recover from a serious accident and injury. 

When Is the Right Time to Hire an Attorney?

Building a strong personal injury case is something that takes time. This is true even if your situation seems simple and straightforward. However, the more complex your case is, the longer it may take your lawyer to investigate what happened and gather evidence related to your injuries. 

Because of these reasons, it’s recommended that you contact a personal injury lawyer immediately after an accident. This will give you the best chance of achieving a successful outcome and fair settlement for your case.