Rich Hyde | July 24, 2026 | Car Accidents

In Texas, you generally have two years from the date of a car accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. This deadline, known as the statute of limitations, is established by Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code § 16.003. If you miss the deadline, the court will likely dismiss your case, preventing you from recovering compensation.

Although two years may seem like plenty of time, building a strong case often requires an early investigation. At Trial Tribe Injury Lawyers, our attorneys have recovered over $40 million for injured clients and understand what it takes to build compelling personal injury claims throughout Texas.

Are There Exceptions to the Two-Year Deadline?

Yes. While the two-year deadline applies to most cases, certain situations can change when the filing period begins or how long you have to file.

Examples include:

• Cases involving injured minors
• Claims where the injured person is legally incapacitated
• Certain claims involving government entities, which often require much shorter notice deadlines
• Rare situations where the injury could not reasonably have been discovered immediately

These exceptions are limited and fact-specific. Waiting to determine whether an exception applies can put your case at risk, so it is wise to consult an attorney promptly.

What Happens if You Miss the Filing Deadline?

Missing the statute of limitations usually means losing your right to pursue compensation through the courts.

Even if you have clear evidence that another driver caused the collision, a judge will likely dismiss your lawsuit once the deadline has expired. Insurance companies are also far less likely to negotiate fairly when they know you can no longer file suit.

Can You Still Recover Compensation if You Were Partially at Fault?

Yes. Texas follows a modified comparative negligence system under Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code § 33.001.

You may recover damages if you are 50% or less responsible for the accident. However, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. If you are more than 50% at fault, you generally cannot recover damages.

Why Should You Contact a Lawyer as Soon as Possible?

You should contact a lawyer well before the statute of limitations expires because preparing a strong case takes time. Waiting until the last few weeks can make it more difficult to locate witnesses, preserve evidence, and fully evaluate your damages.

By getting involved early, a lawyer can investigate your accident, communicate with insurance companies, calculate your losses, and ensure all legal deadlines are met while you focus on your recovery.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I File a Lawsuit if My Injuries Did Not Appear Right Away?

Yes. Some injuries, such as whiplash or traumatic brain injuries, may not become apparent for days or weeks after a crash. You should seek medical attention as soon as symptoms develop and speak with an attorney about protecting your legal rights.

What if the Driver Who Caused the Accident Was Uninsured?

You may still have options for financial recovery. Depending on your circumstances, you may be able to file a claim under your uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage or pursue compensation from another liable party.

Do I Have to Go to Court to Recover Compensation?

Not necessarily. Many Texas car accident cases are resolved through settlement negotiations. However, filing a lawsuit may be necessary if the insurance company refuses to offer fair compensation.

What Documents Should I Keep After a Car Accident?

Keep copies of your medical bills, treatment records, repair estimates, photographs of the accident scene, police reports, insurance correspondence, and receipts for any accident-related expenses. These records can help support your claim.

Contact a Fort Worth Car Accident Lawyer at Trial Tribe Injury Lawyers for a Free Consultation 

If you were injured in a crash, do not wait to learn about your legal options. Contact Trial Tribe Injury Lawyers today for a free consultation with an experienced Fort Worth car accident lawyer. Our team has recovered tens of millions for injured clients and is ready to fight for the full compensation you deserve.

How Long Do I Have to File a Car Accident Lawsuit in Texas? 

In Texas, you generally have two years from the date of a car accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. This deadline, known as the statute of limitations, is established by Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code § 16.003. If you miss the deadline, the court will likely dismiss your case, preventing you from recovering compensation.

Although two years may seem like plenty of time, building a strong case often requires an early investigation. At Trial Tribe Injury Lawyers, our attorneys have recovered over $40 million for injured clients and understand what it takes to build compelling personal injury claims throughout Texas.

Are There Exceptions to the Two-Year Deadline?

Yes. While the two-year deadline applies to most cases, certain situations can change when the filing period begins or how long you have to file.

Examples include:

• Cases involving injured minors
• Claims where the injured person is legally incapacitated
• Certain claims involving government entities, which often require much shorter notice deadlines
• Rare situations where the injury could not reasonably have been discovered immediately

These exceptions are limited and fact-specific. Waiting to determine whether an exception applies can put your case at risk, so it is wise to consult an attorney promptly.

What Happens if You Miss the Filing Deadline?

Missing the statute of limitations usually means losing your right to pursue compensation through the courts.

Even if you have clear evidence that another driver caused the collision, a judge will likely dismiss your lawsuit once the deadline has expired. Insurance companies are also far less likely to negotiate fairly when they know you can no longer file suit.

Can You Still Recover Compensation if You Were Partially at Fault?

Yes. Texas follows a modified comparative negligence system under Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code § 33.001.

You may recover damages if you are 50% or less responsible for the accident. However, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. If you are more than 50% at fault, you generally cannot recover damages.

Why Should You Contact a Lawyer as Soon as Possible?

You should contact a lawyer well before the statute of limitations expires because preparing a strong case takes time. Waiting until the last few weeks can make it more difficult to locate witnesses, preserve evidence, and fully evaluate your damages.

By getting involved early, a lawyer can investigate your accident, communicate with insurance companies, calculate your losses, and ensure all legal deadlines are met while you focus on your recovery.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I File a Lawsuit if My Injuries Did Not Appear Right Away?

Yes. Some injuries, such as whiplash or traumatic brain injuries, may not become apparent for days or weeks after a crash. You should seek medical attention as soon as symptoms develop and speak with an attorney about protecting your legal rights.

What if the Driver Who Caused the Accident Was Uninsured?

You may still have options for financial recovery. Depending on your circumstances, you may be able to file a claim under your uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage or pursue compensation from another liable party.

Do I Have to Go to Court to Recover Compensation?

Not necessarily. Many Texas car accident cases are resolved through settlement negotiations. However, filing a lawsuit may be necessary if the insurance company refuses to offer fair compensation.

What Documents Should I Keep After a Car Accident?

Keep copies of your medical bills, treatment records, repair estimates, photographs of the accident scene, police reports, insurance correspondence, and receipts for any accident-related expenses. These records can help support your claim.

Contact a Fort Worth Car Accident Lawyer at Trial Tribe Injury Lawyers for a Free Consultation 

If you were injured in a crash, do not wait to learn about your legal options. Contact Trial Tribe Injury Lawyers today for a free consultation with an experienced Fort Worth car accident lawyer. Our team has recovered tens of millions for injured clients and is ready to fight for the full compensation you deserve.

How Long Do I Have to File a Car Accident Lawsuit in Texas? 

In Texas, you generally have two years from the date of a car accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. This deadline, known as the statute of limitations, is established by Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code § 16.003. If you miss the deadline, the court will likely dismiss your case, preventing you from recovering compensation.

Although two years may seem like plenty of time, building a strong case often requires an early investigation. At Trial Tribe Injury Lawyers, our attorneys have recovered over $40 million for injured clients and understand what it takes to build compelling personal injury claims throughout Texas.

Are There Exceptions to the Two-Year Deadline?

Yes. While the two-year deadline applies to most cases, certain situations can change when the filing period begins or how long you have to file.

Examples include:

• Cases involving injured minors
• Claims where the injured person is legally incapacitated
• Certain claims involving government entities, which often require much shorter notice deadlines
• Rare situations where the injury could not reasonably have been discovered immediately

These exceptions are limited and fact-specific. Waiting to determine whether an exception applies can put your case at risk, so it is wise to consult an attorney promptly.

What Happens if You Miss the Filing Deadline?

Missing the statute of limitations usually means losing your right to pursue compensation through the courts.

Even if you have clear evidence that another driver caused the collision, a judge will likely dismiss your lawsuit once the deadline has expired. Insurance companies are also far less likely to negotiate fairly when they know you can no longer file suit.

Can You Still Recover Compensation if You Were Partially at Fault?

Yes. Texas follows a modified comparative negligence system under Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code § 33.001.

You may recover damages if you are 50% or less responsible for the accident. However, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. If you are more than 50% at fault, you generally cannot recover damages.

Why Should You Contact a Lawyer as Soon as Possible?

You should contact a lawyer well before the statute of limitations expires because preparing a strong case takes time. Waiting until the last few weeks can make it more difficult to locate witnesses, preserve evidence, and fully evaluate your damages.

By getting involved early, a lawyer can investigate your accident, communicate with insurance companies, calculate your losses, and ensure all legal deadlines are met while you focus on your recovery.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I File a Lawsuit if My Injuries Did Not Appear Right Away?

Yes. Some injuries, such as whiplash or traumatic brain injuries, may not become apparent for days or weeks after a crash. You should seek medical attention as soon as symptoms develop and speak with an attorney about protecting your legal rights.

What if the Driver Who Caused the Accident Was Uninsured?

You may still have options for financial recovery. Depending on your circumstances, you may be able to file a claim under your uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage or pursue compensation from another liable party.

Do I Have to Go to Court to Recover Compensation?

Not necessarily. Many Texas car accident cases are resolved through settlement negotiations. However, filing a lawsuit may be necessary if the insurance company refuses to offer fair compensation.

What Documents Should I Keep After a Car Accident?

Keep copies of your medical bills, treatment records, repair estimates, photographs of the accident scene, police reports, insurance correspondence, and receipts for any accident-related expenses. These records can help support your claim.

Contact a Fort Worth Car Accident Lawyer at Trial Tribe Injury Lawyers for a Free Consultation 

If you were injured in a crash, do not wait to learn about your legal options. Contact Trial Tribe Injury Lawyers today for a free consultation with an experienced Fort Worth car accident lawyer. Our team has recovered tens of millions for injured clients and is ready to fight for the full compensation you deserve.

How Long Do I Have to File a Car Accident Lawsuit in Texas? 

In Texas, you generally have two years from the date of a car accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. This deadline, known as the statute of limitations, is established by Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code § 16.003. If you miss the deadline, the court will likely dismiss your case, preventing you from recovering compensation.

Although two years may seem like plenty of time, building a strong case often requires an early investigation. At Trial Tribe Injury Lawyers, our attorneys have recovered over $40 million for injured clients and understand what it takes to build compelling personal injury claims throughout Texas.

Are There Exceptions to the Two-Year Deadline?

Yes. While the two-year deadline applies to most cases, certain situations can change when the filing period begins or how long you have to file.

Examples include:

• Cases involving injured minors
• Claims where the injured person is legally incapacitated
• Certain claims involving government entities, which often require much shorter notice deadlines
• Rare situations where the injury could not reasonably have been discovered immediately

These exceptions are limited and fact-specific. Waiting to determine whether an exception applies can put your case at risk, so it is wise to consult an attorney promptly.

What Happens if You Miss the Filing Deadline?

Missing the statute of limitations usually means losing your right to pursue compensation through the courts.

Even if you have clear evidence that another driver caused the collision, a judge will likely dismiss your lawsuit once the deadline has expired. Insurance companies are also far less likely to negotiate fairly when they know you can no longer file suit.

Can You Still Recover Compensation if You Were Partially at Fault?

Yes. Texas follows a modified comparative negligence system under Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code § 33.001.

You may recover damages if you are 50% or less responsible for the accident. However, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. If you are more than 50% at fault, you generally cannot recover damages.

Why Should You Contact a Lawyer as Soon as Possible?

You should contact a lawyer well before the statute of limitations expires because preparing a strong case takes time. Waiting until the last few weeks can make it more difficult to locate witnesses, preserve evidence, and fully evaluate your damages.

By getting involved early, a lawyer can investigate your accident, communicate with insurance companies, calculate your losses, and ensure all legal deadlines are met while you focus on your recovery.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I File a Lawsuit if My Injuries Did Not Appear Right Away?

Yes. Some injuries, such as whiplash or traumatic brain injuries, may not become apparent for days or weeks after a crash. You should seek medical attention as soon as symptoms develop and speak with an attorney about protecting your legal rights.

What if the Driver Who Caused the Accident Was Uninsured?

You may still have options for financial recovery. Depending on your circumstances, you may be able to file a claim under your uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage or pursue compensation from another liable party.

Do I Have to Go to Court to Recover Compensation?

Not necessarily. Many Texas car accident cases are resolved through settlement negotiations. However, filing a lawsuit may be necessary if the insurance company refuses to offer fair compensation.

What Documents Should I Keep After a Car Accident?

Keep copies of your medical bills, treatment records, repair estimates, photographs of the accident scene, police reports, insurance correspondence, and receipts for any accident-related expenses. These records can help support your claim.

Contact a Fort Worth Car Accident Lawyer at Trial Tribe Injury Lawyers for a Free Consultation 

If you were injured in a crash, do not wait to learn about your legal options. Contact Trial Tribe Injury Lawyers today for a free consultation with an experienced Fort Worth car accident lawyer. Our team has recovered tens of millions for injured clients and is ready to fight for the full compensation you deserve.

How Long Do I Have to File a Car Accident Lawsuit in Texas? 

In Texas, you generally have two years from the date of a car accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. This deadline, known as the statute of limitations, is established by Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code § 16.003. If you miss the deadline, the court will likely dismiss your case, preventing you from recovering compensation.

Although two years may seem like plenty of time, building a strong case often requires an early investigation. At Trial Tribe Injury Lawyers, our attorneys have recovered over $40 million for injured clients and understand what it takes to build compelling personal injury claims throughout Texas.

Are There Exceptions to the Two-Year Deadline?

Yes. While the two-year deadline applies to most cases, certain situations can change when the filing period begins or how long you have to file.

Examples include:

• Cases involving injured minors
• Claims where the injured person is legally incapacitated
• Certain claims involving government entities, which often require much shorter notice deadlines
• Rare situations where the injury could not reasonably have been discovered immediately

These exceptions are limited and fact-specific. Waiting to determine whether an exception applies can put your case at risk, so it is wise to consult an attorney promptly.

What Happens if You Miss the Filing Deadline?

Missing the statute of limitations usually means losing your right to pursue compensation through the courts.

Even if you have clear evidence that another driver caused the collision, a judge will likely dismiss your lawsuit once the deadline has expired. Insurance companies are also far less likely to negotiate fairly when they know you can no longer file suit.

Can You Still Recover Compensation if You Were Partially at Fault?

Yes. Texas follows a modified comparative negligence system under Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code § 33.001.

You may recover damages if you are 50% or less responsible for the accident. However, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. If you are more than 50% at fault, you generally cannot recover damages.

Why Should You Contact a Lawyer as Soon as Possible?

You should contact a lawyer well before the statute of limitations expires because preparing a strong case takes time. Waiting until the last few weeks can make it more difficult to locate witnesses, preserve evidence, and fully evaluate your damages.

By getting involved early, a lawyer can investigate your accident, communicate with insurance companies, calculate your losses, and ensure all legal deadlines are met while you focus on your recovery.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I File a Lawsuit if My Injuries Did Not Appear Right Away?

Yes. Some injuries, such as whiplash or traumatic brain injuries, may not become apparent for days or weeks after a crash. You should seek medical attention as soon as symptoms develop and speak with an attorney about protecting your legal rights.

What if the Driver Who Caused the Accident Was Uninsured?

You may still have options for financial recovery. Depending on your circumstances, you may be able to file a claim under your uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage or pursue compensation from another liable party.

Do I Have to Go to Court to Recover Compensation?

Not necessarily. Many Texas car accident cases are resolved through settlement negotiations. However, filing a lawsuit may be necessary if the insurance company refuses to offer fair compensation.

What Documents Should I Keep After a Car Accident?

Keep copies of your medical bills, treatment records, repair estimates, photographs of the accident scene, police reports, insurance correspondence, and receipts for any accident-related expenses. These records can help support your claim.

Contact a Fort Worth Car Accident Lawyer at Trial Tribe Injury Lawyers for a Free Consultation 

If you were injured in a crash, do not wait to learn about your legal options. Contact Trial Tribe Injury Lawyers today for a free consultation with an experienced Fort Worth car accident lawyer. Our team has recovered tens of millions for injured clients and is ready to fight for the full compensation you deserve.

How Long Do I Have to File a Car Accident Lawsuit in Texas? 

In Texas, you generally have two years from the date of a car accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. This deadline, known as the statute of limitations, is established by Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code § 16.003. If you miss the deadline, the court will likely dismiss your case, preventing you from recovering compensation.

Although two years may seem like plenty of time, building a strong case often requires an early investigation. At Trial Tribe Injury Lawyers, our attorneys have recovered over $40 million for injured clients and understand what it takes to build compelling personal injury claims throughout Texas.

Are There Exceptions to the Two-Year Deadline?

Yes. While the two-year deadline applies to most cases, certain situations can change when the filing period begins or how long you have to file.

Examples include:

• Cases involving injured minors
• Claims where the injured person is legally incapacitated
• Certain claims involving government entities, which often require much shorter notice deadlines
• Rare situations where the injury could not reasonably have been discovered immediately

These exceptions are limited and fact-specific. Waiting to determine whether an exception applies can put your case at risk, so it is wise to consult an attorney promptly.

What Happens if You Miss the Filing Deadline?

Missing the statute of limitations usually means losing your right to pursue compensation through the courts.

Even if you have clear evidence that another driver caused the collision, a judge will likely dismiss your lawsuit once the deadline has expired. Insurance companies are also far less likely to negotiate fairly when they know you can no longer file suit.

Can You Still Recover Compensation if You Were Partially at Fault?

Yes. Texas follows a modified comparative negligence system under Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code § 33.001.

You may recover damages if you are 50% or less responsible for the accident. However, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. If you are more than 50% at fault, you generally cannot recover damages.

Why Should You Contact a Lawyer as Soon as Possible?

You should contact a lawyer well before the statute of limitations expires because preparing a strong case takes time. Waiting until the last few weeks can make it more difficult to locate witnesses, preserve evidence, and fully evaluate your damages.

By getting involved early, a lawyer can investigate your accident, communicate with insurance companies, calculate your losses, and ensure all legal deadlines are met while you focus on your recovery.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I File a Lawsuit if My Injuries Did Not Appear Right Away?

Yes. Some injuries, such as whiplash or traumatic brain injuries, may not become apparent for days or weeks after a crash. You should seek medical attention as soon as symptoms develop and speak with an attorney about protecting your legal rights.

What if the Driver Who Caused the Accident Was Uninsured?

You may still have options for financial recovery. Depending on your circumstances, you may be able to file a claim under your uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage or pursue compensation from another liable party.

Do I Have to Go to Court to Recover Compensation?

Not necessarily. Many Texas car accident cases are resolved through settlement negotiations. However, filing a lawsuit may be necessary if the insurance company refuses to offer fair compensation.

What Documents Should I Keep After a Car Accident?

Keep copies of your medical bills, treatment records, repair estimates, photographs of the accident scene, police reports, insurance correspondence, and receipts for any accident-related expenses. These records can help support your claim.

Contact a Fort Worth Car Accident Lawyer at Trial Tribe Injury Lawyers for a Free Consultation 

For more information, contact Trial Tribe Injury Lawyers to schedule a free consultation with a Fort Worth car accident lawyer in Fort Worth, TX, today.

We are proud to serve clients throughout Fort Worth, Tarrant County, and the surrounding communities in Texas.

Trial Tribe Injury Lawyers – Fort Worth
4528 W Vickery Blvd #202, Fort Worth, TX 76107
(817) 400-5000
Available 24/7

Trial Tribe Injury Lawyers – Coppell
202 W Sandy Lake Rd ste 105, Coppell, TX 75019
(817) 400-5000
Available 24/7