Statute of Limitations for a Car Accident Case in St. Louis
Car accidents can cause devastating injuries that change your life in an instant. Though you may want to put the whole event behind you, the action you take immediately following the wreck is crucial.
If you were harmed in an accident due to the reckless actions of another, you have the right to file a personal injury lawsuit against the person responsible. There is limited time, however, to file such a claim. It would be in your best interest to reach out to a local lawyer as soon as possible to talk about the statute of limitations for a car accident case in St. Louis County. A diligent car accident attorney at Mutrux Firm Injury Lawyers could help ensure your claim is filed within the deadline.
Time Limit for Filing a Claim
Those who have been injured due to the negligent actions of another must file their claim within the statute of limitations. According to Missouri Revised Statutes 516.105 and 516.120, car crash victims must file a personal injury claim within five years of the accident that caused the injury. However, there are two very important exceptions to this rule.
Car crashes resulting in death and car crashes involving police officers have a deadline of only three years to file their claim in court It is extremely important for victims to speak to a local car accident attorney, so they do not miss the opportunity to file their claim.
Gathering Evidence for an Auto Wreck Claim
One of the most important parts of a personal injury case is the initial investigation. Most lawyers will immediately hire an investigator to take photographs of the roadway and collect video evidence from businesses that are nearby.
The investigators will interview all witnesses, including the actual at-fault driver. Once a lawyer is able to get full statements from witnesses, it can be a powerful tool to use in court.
The injured claimant’s attorney may also hire an accident reconstructionist to go out to the roadway to note any skid marks, yaw marks, or other debris at the scene of the accident. This could help them calculate the speed of the vehicles involved or determine how the accident took place.
How Long Does it Generally Take to Collect Evidence?
In most instances, it only takes a few days to a week to collect the information or evidence for a case. However, the time it takes to collect evidence to be used in court can vary depending on the case. For example, if an at-fault driver is concealing evidence, it may take longer to procure.
Once the evidence is gathered, an attorney must disclose it to the defense counsel. A seasoned car accident lawyer in the area could help an injured party collect evidence for their case.
Contact a Local Car Accident Attorney As Soon As Possible
If you were injured in a car accident that was not your fault, you deserve compensation for your losses. However, fighting for your rights can seem difficult in the days after a wreck.
A dedicated attorney at Mutrux Firm Injury Lawyers could help you file your claim on time and guide you through your personal injury case. Reach out to one of our St. Louis car accident lawyers to learn how we could support you as you recover from your injuries.