A:If you are looking to file a personal injury lawsuit in Modesto, you will need to act quickly to ensure you are compliant with the statute of limitations. Under California law, injured persons generally have two years from the date of the injury to file a lawsuit against those responsible, though this deadline may be extended or shortened depending on the exact circumstances. If you attempt to file a lawsuit after this deadline has passed, the court will likely dismiss your case and you will be unable to recover compensation for your injuries. Since it can sometimes take months of investigations and research to build a strong case, it is important you get an attorney involved early on to guard your rights and maximize your chances of having a successful outcome.