For many Florida car accident negligence claims arising from crashes occurring on or after March 24, 2023, the general statute of limitations is two years, but that is not the only deadline that may apply. Insurance policies can require prompt notice, PIP treatment generally must begin within 14 days, claims against government entities may require presuit notice, and wrongful death or uninsured-motorist matters can involve different legal issues. The exact deadline must be calculated from the crash date, the legal theory, the identity of the defendant, whether the claimant is a minor, and whether any exception or tolling provision applies. Do not wait until the general lawsuit deadline approaches before investigating a crash.
Key Takeaways
- Many current Florida car accident negligence lawsuits have a two-year filing period.
- Crashes occurring before March 24, 2023, may require analysis under the prior limitations law.
- Insurance and PIP deadlines can arise long before the lawsuit deadline.
- Government claims may require special presuit notice.
- Waiting can result in lost video, unavailable witnesses, repaired vehicles, and weaker evidence.
This article provides general information and is not legal advice. Filing deadlines can depend on the accident date, type of claim, identity of the defendant, insurance policy, and other facts. Reading this article does not create an attorney-client relationship.
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