Based on the California Code of Civil Procedure section 335.1, in the state of California there is a two year statute of limitations for auto accident claims.
This means that injury victims have up to two years from the date of their accident to file a damages lawsuit.
In California, there is a two year statute of limitations for auto accident claims.
Shortly after your accident you may like to consider hiring a lawyer to help explain your legal options and to begin the process for filing a claim. There are a number of reason for this:
It establishes a record for the incident.
In the event that the insurance company does not offer a fair and just settlement amount, your attorney can use the filing as leverage in the negotiations - knowing that they can take the case to court in an effort to obtain more compensation for your injuries &/or property damages.
Some insurance companies also have specific time frames that an insurance claim must be submitted. As time can pass quickly, having everything in order helps to prevent any last minute issues should you need to pursue a compensation claim.