The Basic Time Limit to File a Car Accident Lawsuit in Ohio
Under Ohio Rev. Code § 2305.10, you generally have two years from the date of the crash to file a personal injury lawsuit arising from a car accident. File on time or the court will likely dismiss the case, no matter how strong your injuries or liability proof may be.
What Happens If You Miss the Deadline?
If you file after the two-year limit, the court will typically dismiss the case, and insurers know it—so they’ll often stop negotiating once the deadline passes. That’s why we track key dates for you and push the case forward while you focus on recovery.
Exceptions That Can Affect the Deadline
While exceptions to the statute of limitations are rare, there are circumstances where the filing deadline can be delayed or even shortened. It’s important not to rely on these exceptions and to have a knowledgeable lawyer analyze your circumstances before taking action. Examples of exceptions in car accident cases include:
- The victim is a minor: The statute of limitations will be paused until the victim turns 18, and then will last for two years after.
- The victim is disabled: If the victim is found to be mentally incompetent, the deadline is paused until their disability ends.
- The at-fault driver goes on the run: If the liable party has left the state or otherwise disappeared, the statute of limitations is paused.
- The defendant is a government entity: Cases involving the government often have different deadlines than most personal injury claims.
Why You Shouldn’t Wait to File a Car Accident Claim
The sooner you begin your car accident claim, the stronger your chances are of getting the best possible results. Evidence is strongest immediately after a crash but can be lost with time. Witnesses’ memories may fade. The insurance company might delay and drag out the claims process, leaving you little time to properly build a case before the filing deadline.
Consulting with an experienced attorney at Lawrence & Associates can help you get a head start on your car accident claim and ensure you don’t miss the deadline set by the Ohio statute of limitations.
Speak to a Cincinnati Car Accident Lawyer Today
If you’ve been injured in a car accident, our skilled legal team has you covered. Since our founding in 2005, our firm has helped clients like you in Ohio and Northern Kentucky recover hundreds of millions in compensation. Our attorneys can handle all aspects of your claim while providing compassionate care for you and your loved ones every step of the way.
Call us today at (513) 951-6723 for a free, confidential consultation or fill out our online form to get started.
