How Long Do I Have to File a Car Accident Claim in St. Petersburg, FL?

Perenich, Caulfield, Avril & Noyes Personal Injury Lawyers | Car Accident

How Long Do I Have to File a Car Accident Claim in St. Petersburg, FL?

Experiencing a car accident can leave you with expensive medical bills, vehicle repairs, and legal claims. If you or a loved one have been in a car accident in St. Petersburg, Florida, you may wonder, “How long after an accident can you file a claim?” 

Working with a St. Petersburg car accident attorney can help protect your right to file a car accident claim or lawsuit in St. Petersburg.  

Car Accident Claims vs. Lawsuits in St. Petersburg, FL

The terms “claim” and “lawsuit” may be used interchangeably after a car accident, but they differ. A car accident claim is typically the first step after someone is injured in an accident. 

In Florida, a no-fault state with personal injury protection (PIP) insurance requirements, this often involves filing a claim with your auto insurance company for compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, or other damages. If a settlement cannot be reached or the circumstances allow, you may also file a lawsuit in Florida courts.

The Statutes of Limitations in Florida

Florida imposes a statute of limitations for filing a personal injury lawsuit after a car accident. This controls how long after an accident you can sue. The time limit is generally two years from the date of the accident in Florida. Failing to file your lawsuit in time will permanently bar you from seeking compensation for accident-related damages in court.

But how long do you have to file an insurance claim? The statute of limitations applies to filing a lawsuit in court, not to filing an insurance claim. However, be aware that insurance companies often require policyholders to notify them of a claim immediately, so act quickly. A St. Peterburg car accident lawyer will navigate the statute of limitations and any insurance requirements relevant to your case.

Exceptions to the Statutes of Limitations in Florida

The two-year statute of limitations is a general rule. 

Several exceptions in Florida may apply to your case, such as if your car accident involves:

  • Minor Children: The statute of limitations can be tolled for children. However, a parent or guardian may file a lawsuit on their behalf before the child reaches adulthood.
  • Incapacitated Victims: The statute of limitations may be extended if the person injured in the car accident is declared legally incapacitated. The statute of limitations will be paused until the incapacity is lifted.
  • Wrongful Death: A deceased’s representative has two years from the date of death to file a wrongful death lawsuit if a car accident causes death.

A St. Peterburg car accident lawyer will determine if exceptions apply to your case.

Benefits of Hiring a St. Petersburg Car Accident Lawyer

Navigating a car accident can be complicated. Understanding how long after an accident you can file a claim is just one part of the overall picture. 

A St. Petersburg car accident lawyer will help you with:

  • Knowledge of Car Accident Laws: Car accident lawyers understand the statute of limitations and will ensure lawsuits are filed correctly and on time.
  • Negotiating with Insurance Companies: A lawyer will negotiate with insurers on your behalf and fight for the compensation you deserve.
  • Maximizing Your Compensation: A lawyer will help identify all possible sources of compensation, including medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
  • Representation in Court: If a fair settlement cannot be reached, a lawyer will file a lawsuit and present your case in court.

Schedule a free consultation to learn how a St. Petersburg car accident lawyer will help your car accident claim.

A St. Peterburg Car Accident Lawyer Can Help You Pursue Your Claim On Time

If you or a loved one have been involved in a car accident in St. Petersburg, know the time limits for filing a lawsuit. While the general rule is two years, exceptions may extend this period. Due to the challenges of car accident claims, hiring a personal injury lawyer can be highly beneficial. A St. Petersburg car accident lawyer can help you navigate the legal system, negotiate with insurance companies, and fight for fair compensation for your injuries and losses. 

Contact the St. Petersburg Car Accident Law Firm Of Perenich, Caulfield, Avril & Noyes Personal Injury Lawyers for Help

For more information, please contact the St. Petersburg car accident caw firm of Perenich, Caulfield, Avril & Noyes Personal Injury Lawyers at the nearest location to schedule a free consultation today.

We serve Pinellas County, and its surrounding areas:

Perenich, Caulfield, Avril & Noyes Personal Injury Lawyers – Clearwater
1875 N Belcher Rd. STE 201,
Clearwater, FL 33765,
United States
(727) 796-8282

Perenich, Caulfield, Avril & Noyes Personal Injury Lawyers – St. Petersburg
2560 1st Ave S,
St. Petersburg, FL 33712,
United States
(727) 344-4242