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Statutory deadlines for claims

Truck accident lawsuits must be filed within strict time limits set by state law. These statutory deadlines, called statutes of limitations, vary across jurisdictions and determine whether victims can pursue compensation.

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  • Truck Accident Law Team
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Article 5 of 6 in State-Specific Truck Accident Laws/

Statutory Deadlines for Truck Accident Claims

What Are Statutes of Limitations?

  • Laws that establish the maximum time after an accident in which a lawsuit may be filed.
  • Once the deadline passes, the claim is usually barred, regardless of its merits.

Typical Timeframes

  • Personal Injury Claims: Usually 2–3 years from the date of the truck accident.
  • Wrongful Death Claims: Often 1–3 years from the date of death.
  • Property Damage Claims: Frequently 2–6 years, depending on the state.

Variations by State

  • Shorter Deadlines: States like Kentucky and Louisiana allow only 1 year for personal injury claims.
  • Longer Deadlines: Maine and North Dakota allow up to 6 years.
  • Special Rules: Some states toll (pause) the statute of limitations for minors, incapacitated victims, or fraudulent concealment by defendants.

Claims Against Government Entities

  • If the accident involves a city, county, or state vehicle, plaintiffs must often file a notice of claim within a much shorter timeframe (as little as 90–180 days).
  • Failure to comply can forfeit the right to sue.

Impact on Truck Accident Cases

  • Trucking companies often use the statute of limitations as a defense to dismiss late claims.
  • Attorneys must act quickly to investigate, preserve evidence, and file within deadlines.
  • Filing early strengthens access to witnesses, documents, and accident scene details.
  • Statutory deadlines ensure efficiency and prevent stale claims.
  • Missing deadlines almost always eliminates recovery options.
  • Plaintiffs’ attorneys must know state-specific rules and exceptions to protect clients’ rights.

Summary: Statutory deadlines for truck accident claims vary by state, typically ranging from 1 to 6 years. Missing these deadlines usually bars recovery, making timely legal action essential for victims seeking compensation.

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Truck Accident Law Team

Written by : Truck Accident Law Team

Attorneys, investigators, and legal writers focused on U.S. trucking safety, litigation strategy, and victim advocacy.

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