How Long Can You Sue Another Driver After a Wisconsin Car Accident

If you were in an accident and sustained injuries because of the negligence of another driver, you can hold this driver accountable and secure compensation for all of your losses. You need an attorney for auto accident to explain your options and give you solid legal representation. After the accident, you must contact a lawyer as soon as possible. You must know about the statute of limitations for filing a claim or lawsuit. Also, your lawyer will have to gather evidence and documentation that can be used to support your case. If you do not take action right away, you can lose evidence or eyewitnesses may forget what occurred.

Car accidents can take place instantly; however, they can have long-lasting effects. Because of this, you may wonder when you can file a claim and obtain the compensation you are entitled to. Particularly if you sustained serious injuries a successful claim can offer a vital financial cushion. Thus, you must know the applicable rules.

What to Know About the Statute of Limitations

The statute of limitations sets the amount of time you can file a legal injury claim. In Wisconsin, you have three years from the accident date to file a claim or lawsuit for personal injury that arises from a car crash. However, you should speak with an attorney as soon as possible because the clock begins to tick on the accident date.

You must take action immediately to preserve your case’s validity and collect fresh evidence. These are essential when trying to secure the most favorable outcome.

While there is a three-year time limit to when you can file a lawsuit, some factors can affect it. Your attorney should analyze these factors. Also, know you must meet other mandatory filing requirements for certain claims. For example, if your claim involves a public entity, the time limit and notice requirements are usually shorter and stricter.

Exceptions to the Rule

In Wisconsin, the three-year statute of limitations offers some exceptions. For example, if you were under 18 years old or were mentally ill when the accident occurred, the statute of limitations starts once you gain back your mental competency or when you turn 18.

In addition, if the at-fault driver leaves the state before you initiate a lawsuit, the three-year limit does not cover the time spent by this party outside Wisconsin. Such situations emphasize the importance of consulting a skilled car accident attorney to guide you as you navigate through the intricacies of the state’s statute of limitations.