Car accidents are often traumatic experiences that can cause catastrophic injuries and leave victims wondering what their next steps should be. You might be wondering, is there a time limit for filing a personal injury claim after an accident? Should I file my claim now, or wait? What happens if I file my claim too late?
In this FAQ, we're going to explore the different options available to you in the wake of an accident when filing a personal injury claim. Have other questions? Call our team today at 314-542-2222 or 618-272-2222. We don't charge any fees for our consultations, and we never ask for any attorneys fees unless we win your personal injury claim.
When Should File an Injury Claim?
After suffering injuries in an accident, it's essential to seek immediate medical treatment and get an official diagnosis from a doctor to understand the nature of your injuries. No accident is minor, but without prompt treatment, injuries can rapidly worsen. A medical examination offers you the treatment you need, plus proof of your injuries, which is essential when filing an injury claim. You might be thinking, can I still file a claim if I am receiving treatment for my injuries? Yes, you should still file a claim if you're getting treatment for your injuries from the accident.
Accidents that happen on the job need to be reported to an employer within 30 days of the accident to file a valid worker's compensation claim, and personal injury claims have a time limit of up to five years after the accident. But, that doesn't mean that you should wait that long to file an injury claim. Evidence can quickly deteriorate, so it's best to file personal injury claims as soon as possible after the accident.
What is the Statute of Limitations for Injury Claims?
Each state has specific regulations for different types of accidents; this is called a Statute of Limitations. The statute of limitations can vary significantly depending on the nature of the accident. For example, car accident, truck accident, motorcycle accident, and other personal injury claims in Missouri need to be filed within five years of an accident occurring, while workers compensation claims should be filed within two years of an incident. It's essential to keep each of these time limits in mind when filing your personal injury claim, as filing a claim beyond these time limits could result in a lower settlement or forfeiting your right to compensation.
In the wake of an accident, it can be challenging to know what to do. No accident is minor, and each accident comes with its own set of challenges. When you need help with your personal injury claim and want to make sure that you recover the most compensation, you need our aggressive Personal Injury Lawyers in St. Louis by your side, offering legal guidance for your case. Call our team at 314-542-2222 or 618-272-2222 today to explore the options available to your case.