How Long Do I Have to File a Car Accident Claim in Maryland?

In Maryland, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim is three years starting from the date of the accident. However, there are a few things to keep in mind:

• The time limit does not apply to a car insurance claim. If you decide to file a claim, most insurance companies require you to make that claim “within a reasonable time” following the accident.
• The statute of limitations for the family of a person who was killed as a result of a car accident starts on the date of death, not the date of the accident.
• If a minor child was injured in the accident, the statute of limitations for them to file a lawsuit begins on the date of their 18^th birthday and ends on their 21^st
• If the injured accident victim suffers a mental or physical disability and no longer has the capacity to pursue a claim, the statute of limitations might be extended.

When Should I File My Injury Claim?

One of the first steps to take following a car accident is to seek medical attention for your injury. Getting a diagnosis and treatment plan right away not only connects your injury to the car accident, but it also gives you an idea of the severity of the injury and how much it may ultimately cost you.

Your next move is to seek the help of a car accident lawyer to guide you through the legal process and help you file your claim. It is imperative to file your claim as soon as possible for a variety of reasons. You do not want to wait until you are close to the three-year deadline:

• If you file your claim too late, it may be difficult to find legal representation, as car accident cases takes time to prepare.
• Evidence can be lost in a matter of days or weeks following an accident, and witnesses’ memories may not be as detailed or clear.
• Filing your claim tells the insurance company or at-fault party that you have a strong claim and are prepared to seek fair compensation.
• If your claim involves a government entity or government employee, you have to file your claim within a specific time frame to that government agency, where the statute of limitations may differ.

Bowie Car Accident Lawyers at the Law Offices of Duane O. King Help Accident Survivors File Their Personal Injury Claims

The legal process for filing an injury claim can be stressful. Let our Bowie car accident lawyers at the Law Offices of Duane O. King help you today. Call us at 202-331-1963 or fill out our online form for a free consultation. Located in Washington, D.C., Alexandria, Virginia, and National Harbor, Maryland, we serve clients in Prince George’s County, including Laurel, Beltsville, Adelphi, College Park, Greenbelt, Mitchellville, Woodmore, Greater Upper Marlboro, Springdale, Largo, Bowie, Capitol Heights, District Heights, Forestville, Suitland, Seat Pleasant, Clinton, Oxon Hill, Temple Hills, and Fort Washington.