If you’ve been hurt in an accident in Texas, you don’t have unlimited time to take legal action. Like every state, Texas has a statute of limitations that sets a strict deadline for filing a personal injury lawsuit. Missing that window could mean losing your right to recover damages.
What is the statute of limitations?
In Texas, the general statute of limitations for personal injury claims is two years from the date of the injury. That means you usually have exactly two years to file a lawsuit in civil court.
This deadline applies to a wide range of injury cases. The most common types include:
- Car accidents
- Truck crashes
- Slip-and-falls
- Dog bites
- Workplace injuries (if not covered by workers’ comp)
These cases all follow the same basic rule. So, if you were injured in a crash on July 1, 2023, you typically must file your lawsuit by July 1, 2025 and no later than that.
When the clock can pause
Some situations may delay or “toll” the statute of limitations. It’s important to understand when exceptions might apply. Here are the main situations where the deadline might be extended:
- The injured person is a minor: The two-year clock usually starts on their 18th birthday.
- The defendant leaves the state: The clock may pause while they’re out of Texas.
- The injury wasn’t discovered right away: In rare cases, the clock starts when you reasonably discover the harm.
While these exceptions can help, they’re not guaranteed. You still need to act quickly to preserve your rights.
Why acting early matters
Even if two years sounds like a lot of time, it’s risky to wait. Evidence can disappear. Witnesses may move or forget key details. Insurance companies may take you less seriously the longer you delay.
If you think you have a claim, don’t guess the deadline. If you are unsure of what to do, speaking with a personal injury attorney might be helpful.
Filing early also gives your attorney time to build a strong case. If you wait too long, the court will likely dismiss your case no matter how badly you were hurt.