The statute of limitations for most car accident claims in Arizona is
two years from the date of your accident. If you don't file a claim before that deadline, you'll probably lose your right to obtain compensation. There are, however, exceptions to that rule.
What Are the Exceptions to Arizona's Statute of Limitations After a Car Accident?
There are certain car accident claims where the two-year deadline doesn't apply.
Discovery
Some injuries aren't immediately apparent but instead develop over time. If victims don't discover their injuries until a period after their accident, the two-year statute of limitations may be delayed. In these cases, the clock starts ticking on the date the injuries are discovered.
Governmental Involvement
When an Arizona government employee or agency is responsible for causing a car accident,
strict regulations for filing a claim apply. You must file a notice of claim within 180 days. This notice has to include specific information, and a registered process server, sheriff, or sheriff's deputy must deliver it to the right people.
These claims are typically denied, either outright or automatically if the named parties don't respond within 60 days. You can still file a civil lawsuit, but you only have one year from the date of your accident to do so.
Minor Victims
If a victim is a minor when a car accident happens, the statute of limitations may be delayed until their 18th birthday.
Do You Need a Car Accident Lawyer?
