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The Legal Countdown: What Is the Statute of Limitations in Texas for Personal Injury?

Writer's picture: Robert SchuergerRobert Schuerger

Understanding the statute of limitations in Texas for personal injury cases is essential for victims seeking justice. When an injured person files a personal injury claim, they must adhere to Texas law, particularly the two-year statute.


This period can shift depending on when the injury arises or if the exposed person's death resulted from wrongful death, medical malpractice, or even a car accident.


Clarity is crucial when considering factors such as legal disability and the victim's mental competence. These factors play a vital role in determining the outcome of the situation.


In this article, readers will learn about the Texas personal injury statute of limitations, its exceptions, the role of an attorney in these cases, and much more.



What Is the Statute of Limitations in Texas for Personal Injury?

What Is the Statute of Limitations in Texas for Personal Injury?


Understanding the statute of limitations for personal injury in Texas can be intricate. When it comes to personal injury lawsuits, there is a specific time limit called the statute of limitations set by the courts.


This deadline is essential for cases involving accidents caused by someone's careless actions. The length of time victims need to file a lawsuit depends on the state's laws where the incident happened.


However, exceptions can extend the limitations period. When victims are minors or sexual assault survivors, the clock might tick differently. Similarly, the Texas personal injury statute adjusts if an injury is hidden or a medical malpractice case comes to light later.


It can be advantageous for people to consult with a personal injury lawyer, mainly when dealing with these complicated legal matters.


What Is the Timeline for Texas Personal Injury Statute of Limitations?


People in Texas often ask about the time limit for filing personal injury claims. This legal rule sets a time frame, usually two years, for initiating personal injury lawsuits from when the wound takes place.


Furthermore, this time limit is defined under the Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code, Section 16.003. Also, there may be exceptions where an injured person requires guidance to comprehend the situation's complexities.


In cases of severe personal injury accidents, the countdown can seem harsh. However, it is crucial to file a claim within a specific period, even if the recovery process takes up a significant portion of that time. If victims fail to do so, they may lose their right to seek legal action according to the law.


This two-year limit is applicable in cases of negligence or intentional harm. The Texas statute treats intentional harm differently from accidents due to negligence.


It's important to note that negligence is when the responsible party did not mean to cause harm, but their recklessness resulted in injury. On the other hand, intentional harm is when the injury is inflicted deliberately.


Exceptions to the Texas Statute of Limitations for Personal Injury Claims


The Texas statute extends the usual two-year limit for filing personal injury lawsuits in certain situations. These exceptions are critical elements in personal injury cases, providing some flexibility around the strict deadlines. Understanding these exceptions can provide clarity and help individuals deal with the legal landscape.


Legal Disability

One of the key exceptions to the Texas personal injury statute of limitations applies when the victim is legally disabled. This typically refers to an individual who is under the age of 18 or mentally incompetent at the time of the injury.


The statute of limitations does not commence until the person turns 18 or becomes mentally competent. Moreover, this rule ensures that those who cannot advocate for themselves have their rights preserved.


Defendant's Absence from Texas

Another important exception comes into play when the alleged offender leaves the state of Texas for a period. The statute of limitations clock pauses during the absence of the person at fault. However, the countdown resumes once they return to Texas, extending the deadline for filing a personal injury lawsuit.


Unknown Injuries or Fault

Texas' statute also caters to instances where a wounded victim may not initially realize the severity of their injuries or the other party's fault in the incident. In such cases, the two-year window begins only when the victim becomes aware or should have become conscious of their potential personal injury claim.


Special Cases

There are unique circumstances, such as sexual assault or asbestos-related injuries, where the standard time frame does not apply. These specific cases have distinct rules that modify the standard statute of limitations.


While the two-year rule generally applies, these exceptions highlight the need for detailed understanding when dealing with these legal cases in Texas.


Assessing the Impact of Personal Injury Cases


Learning the extent of the consequences faced in a personal injury case is vital. Also, recognizing the full scale of these losses is essential to the case. Here are several damages that victims receive from an accident.


Medical Costs

Medical costs can spiral quickly after a personal injury accident. These expenses may range from immediate emergency care to ongoing rehabilitation.


Among others, expenses could cover surgeries, hospital stays, and various treatment plans. Pain management and therapy, both physical and occupational, are often part of the recovery journey.


Income Loss

Injured victims may lose significant income while recovering, which could exacerbate financial stress. The impact extends beyond lost wages, potentially affecting future earning capabilities as well.


Emotional Distress

Emotional trauma is a significant part of the losses in a personal injury case. Furthermore, the pain and suffering experienced, both physical and emotional, deserve consideration and should not be overlooked.

Grasping these aspects can ensure fair compensation is sought within the statute of limitations, aiding in a full recovery.



The Importance of an Attorney in a Personal Injury Claim

The Importance of an Attorney in a Personal Injury Claim


Facing the aftermath of a personal injury accident alone can be daunting. They can provide more insight to questions such as, "Do you have to pay your medical bills from a personal injury settlement in Texas?" Also, navigating the complex legal process, understanding the statute of limitations, and fighting for rightful compensation require legal knowledge and experience.


A personal injury attorney becomes crucial in these situations. They can handle the legal complexities while victims focus on recovery.


Moreover, for those unsure about their case, Schuerger Shunnarah Trial Attorneys offers a free consultation to assess the situation and guide them through the injury statute of limitations. The professional team is ready to go to war for its clients to ensure justice is served. They can answer questions like, "What is the average personal injury settlement in Texas?"


Closing Thoughts


When dealing with these cases in Texas, it's essential to have a good grasp of the legal system, including understanding the two-year statute of limitations.


However, some challenges can arise, making the journey towards justice more complex. These obstacles are not impossible to overcome, especially with the help of a knowledgeable personal injury attorney by your side.


The team at Schuerger Shunnarah Trial Attorneys stands ready to go to 'War For You,' offering its expertise to make the path less harsh and more promising. Victims should consider reaching out to this dedicated team today.

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