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If you’ve been involved in a car accident in Virginia, you may be wondering how long you have to file a claim. Understanding the statute of limitations is crucial, especially when you’re seeking legal representation from a Virginia car accident lawyer. In this article, we’ll delve into the specifics of the statute of limitations for car accidents in Virginia and how the law firm Regan Zambri Long can assist you in navigating this complex legal landscape.
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In Virginia, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim related to a car accident is two years from the date of the accident. This means you have exactly two years to file a lawsuit against the at-fault party. If you fail to do so within this timeframe, you may lose your right to pursue compensation for your injuries, medical expenses, and other damages.
For property damage claims, the statute of limitations extends to five years from the date of the accident. This allows you more time to recover damages for your vehicle or other property affected in the collision.
The statute of limitations serves as a legal deadline, and missing it can have severe consequences. Insurance companies are well aware of these timelines and may use them to their advantage. Therefore, it’s crucial to consult a Virginia car accident lawyer as soon as possible to protect your rights and build a strong case.
While the general rule is that you have two years to file a personal injury claim and five years for property damage, there are some exceptions to the statute of limitations for car accidents in Virginia. These exceptions can either extend or shorten the time you have to file a lawsuit, making it even more crucial to consult a Virginia car accident lawyer like those at Regan Zambri Long to understand your specific circumstances. Here are some notable exceptions:
If the victim of the car accident is a minor (under the age of 18), the statute of limitations doesn’t begin to run until the minor reaches the age of majority. In Virginia, this means the minor has until their 20th birthday to file a personal injury claim.
For victims who are mentally or physically incapacitated at the time of the accident, the statute of limitations may be tolled (paused) until the incapacity is lifted. However, this is subject to specific legal criteria, and you should consult a qualified Virginia car accident lawyer for advice tailored to your situation.
If the at-fault party leaves the state of Virginia after the accident but before a lawsuit can be filed, the time of their absence may not count against the statute of limitations. This can effectively extend the time you have to file a claim.
If your claim is against a government entity, special rules may apply that could shorten the time you have to file a claim. For instance, you may need to file a formal notice of claim within a much shorter period, sometimes as little as six months from the date of the accident.
In some cases, insurance policies may have provisions that alter the standard statute of limitations. While these are not common, it’s essential to read your insurance policy carefully and consult a Virginia car accident lawyer to understand any time limitations that may apply.
Virginia law allows for the “discovery rule” in specific cases, which means the statute of limitations may start from the date the injury was discovered or should have been discovered, rather than the date of the accident. This is more commonly applied in medical malpractice cases but can sometimes be relevant in car accident cases as well.
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Regan Zambri Long is a reputable law firm with years of experience in handling car accident cases in Virginia. Their team of skilled attorneys can guide you through the complexities of the legal system, ensuring that you meet all deadlines and maximize your chances of receiving the compensation you deserve.
Regan Zambri Long has a proven track record of success in car accident cases. Their attorneys are well-versed in Virginia’s traffic laws and have the expertise to negotiate with insurance companies effectively. They can help you gather the necessary evidence, such as police reports and medical records, to strengthen your case.
When you choose Regan Zambri Long as your Virginia car accident lawyer, you can expect personalized attention and tailored legal solutions. They understand that every case is unique and requires a customized approach to achieve the best possible outcome.
One of the standout features of Regan Zambri Long is their “no win, no fee” policy. This means you won’t have to pay any legal fees unless they successfully recover compensation for you. This policy ensures that you can seek quality legal representation without worrying about the financial burden.
Understanding the statute of limitations for a car accident in Virginia is essential for anyone seeking to file a claim. With only two years to act for personal injury claims and five years for property damage, time is of the essence. Consulting a Virginia car accident lawyer like those at Regan Zambri Long can make all the difference in successfully navigating the legal system and securing the compensation you deserve.
