How Long After a Car Accident Can You Claim Injury?
As you probably know, there is a time limit for claiming injury after a car accident. In Texas, the statute of limitations–or time limit–is two years. The two years are measured from the date of the accident. That means injured parties have two years to file their injury claim in court; it does not imply you must settle within that time.
While two years might sound like a long time, there are other factors to consider. If you wait weeks or months to see a doctor, your insurance adjuster will take note. Generally, it doesn’t look good when people delay getting medical treatment or filing a claim. Insurance companies can argue that the injuries weren’t urgent or even that the injuries were caused by something other than your collision.
Before You Claim an Injury
Before you file your claim, you will need to report your car accident. In Texas, it’s generally up to the drivers to decide whether the crash is serious enough for a report. But reporting all accidents–even fender benders–is a good rule of thumb. You want to document all types of accidents because it’s not always easy to assess the damage from a crash.
For example, you and your passengers might feel fine just after a wreck. But later, when the adrenaline wears off, you might discover significant aches and pains. If you don’t want to pay for medical bills out of pocket, you need to have an accident report. Or, you might think your automobile is fine, only to realize later it’s dented or isn’t running properly. “Better safe than sorry” definitely applies to car accidents in Texas.
Common Car Accident Injuries
After a car accident, most people just want to move on. A collision can be frustrating and draining, and dealing with the aftermath is often time-consuming. But waiting to see a doctor for your injuries can cause even more significant issues. You might have trouble getting adjusters to take you seriously, or your injuries might become worse due to delayed treatment.
Auto accidents cause many injuries:
- Whiplash
- Concussion
- Breaks and fractures
- Sprains, strains, and tears
- Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)
- Internal bleeding
- Back injury
- Neck injury
Car accident injuries can be tricky. What seems like a minor injury at first can lead to significant complications. Likewise, someone might feel fine right after a crash, only to experience chronic pain later on. Getting a professional medical evaluation after an accident can help prevent further injury and promote optimal outcomes for healing.
Delayed Claims in Texas
You might be wondering what happens if you don’t claim injury within the statute of limitations. The simple answer is that your claim will be denied. Whether your claim involves personal injury or damage to your vehicle, Texas law requires that claims be filed within a specific time frame. Otherwise, determining the cause of injury or damage is too difficult.
Although two years sounds like plenty of time, it’s never a good idea to put off your claim. As with most things, the longer you delay, the less likely you are to ever file. Plus, you don’t want to be struggling to recall details when filing a personal injury claim. You will be dealing with insurance adjusters trained to minimize or deny your payout, so you want to be as prepared and informed as possible.
Contact Premier Injury Clinics After a Car Accident
At Premier Injury Clinics of DFW, we treat auto accident victims daily. Our skilled staff understands how frustrating and disruptive car crash injuries can be. We have doctors on-site at all times at our six convenient locations. In addition to pain management and chiropractic care, we offer attorney referrals, specialist referrals, and diagnostic imaging referrals. We can even refer you to a local personal injury attorney!
If you were in a car crash, drop by our clinic for a complete evaluation. An auto accident doctor can conduct tests that detect injuries even before they are felt, accelerating your recovery and helping prevent further damage. If you or a loved one were injured in a car crash, call us today. We offer complimentary transportation and kind, compassionate care.
Car Accident Doctor FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
What kind of doctor should I see after a car accident?
At Premier Injury Clinics of DFW, we have doctors on staff at all times to treat car crash injuries. Our services aim to reduce pain, restore range of motion, and reduce the likelihood of recurring conditions. If you have whiplash, back pain, or neck pain after an accident, our knowledgeable staff can help.
What are the most common injuries after a car accident?
Typical car crash injuries include whiplash, concussion, fractured bones, strains and sprains, damaged soft tissue, and disc injuries. It’s sometimes difficult to tell right away if a car crash harmed you, but an auto accident doctor can professionally evaluate and diagnose your condition.
How long do I have to file a claim after a car accident?
In Texas, you have two years from the date of the accident to file an injury claim. But you should file as quickly as possible for a better chance of recovering compensation. Like waiting to see a doctor, waiting to file can lead to serious complications.
How can a chiropractor help after an accident?
After a car accident, a chiropractor can use various tools and techniques to restore joint flexibility and realign vertebrae. Benefits of chiropractic care after a car crash include pain relief, reduced inflammation, reduced scar tissue, and improved range of motion.
