A "statute of limitations" refers to the laws regulating how
long after your accident you can pursue a personal injury lawsuit. In
California, you may file a lawsuit for your car accident injuries for
up to 2 years after the date of your accident. If you wait over 2 years
to file a lawsuit your case will be dismissed by the court and you will
be left without compensation. There are a few exceptions to this rule;
for example, minors who are injured have the time limit extended until
they reach the age of 18, at that point the clock starts ticking for the
2 year timeframe.