How Long Can Someone Sue You After a Car Accident in Vegas?

Car accidents are an unfortunate reality of life, and when they occur, they can lead to a wide range of complications, including physical injuries, emotional trauma, and financial losses. In some cases, car accident victims may decide to take legal action against the person who caused the accident in order to recover compensation for their damages.

But how long does someone have to sue you after a car accident in Las Vegas, Nevada? In this article, we will discuss the time limits for filing a lawsuit, known as the statute of limitations, and explore some factors that may impact this timeline.

Statute of Limitations for Car Accident Lawsuits in Nevada

The statute of limitations in Nevada for filing a personal injury lawsuit after a car accident is two years since when the accident occurred. This means that if someone wants to sue you for damages resulting from a car accident, they must do so within two years of the incident. If they fail to file their lawsuit within this time frame, they cannot pursue this case after it.

It is important to note that the two-year statute of limitations applies to personal injury claims, such as those involving physical injuries and emotional distress. For property damage claims, such as damage to a vehicle or other personal property, the statute of limitations in Nevada is three years from the date of the accident.

Exceptions to the Statute of Limitations

There are some exceptions to the general statute of limitations that may extend the time frame for filing a lawsuit. These exceptions include:

1. Minor Victims: If the person injured in the car accident is a minor (under the age of 18), the statute of limitations does not begin to run until they turn 18 years old. This means that they would have until their 20th birthday to file a personal injury lawsuit.
2. Incapacitated Victims: If the injured person is mentally or physically incapacitated and unable to file a lawsuit, the statute of limitations may be paused until they regain capacity.
3. Defendant’s Absence: If the person who caused the accident leaves the state of Nevada after the accident, the statute of limitations may be tolled for the time they are absent from the state, up to a maximum of three years.

It is essential to consult with an experienced personal injury attorney to determine whether any of these exceptions apply to your specific case, as they can significantly impact the timeline for filing a lawsuit.

Importance of Acting Quickly After a Car Accident

While the statute of limitations provides a set time frame for filing a lawsuit after a car accident, it is crucial to act quickly and consult with an attorney as soon as possible. There are several reasons for this:

1. Preserving Evidence: The sooner you consult with an attorney, the more likely it is that crucial evidence can be preserved. This includes physical evidence from the accident scene, as well as witness statements and medical records.
2. Navigating Insurance Claims: An attorney can help you navigate the often-complex process of filing insurance claims, ensuring that you receive the compensation you deserve.
3. Avoiding Mistakes: Working with an experienced attorney can help you avoid common mistakes that may jeopardize your claim, such as providing a recorded statement to an insurance adjuster or inadvertently admitting fault for the accident.

Conclusion

In Nevada, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury lawsuit after a car accident is generally two years from the date of the accident, while property damage claims have a three-year statute of limitations.

However, certain exceptions may extend this time frame, such as when the victim is a minor or incapacitated, or if the defendant is absent from the state. It is vital to consult with an experienced personal injury attorney as soon as possible after a car accident to ensure that your rights are protected and that you receive the compensation you deserve.

We at The Bourassa Law Group are here to manage all your legal troubles in the state of Nevada. Call us at (800)870-8910 and talk to our legal resource for directions.

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