In Texas, you generally have 2 years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. If you miss this deadline, your case can be permanently dismissed — even if your injuries are serious. However, certain exceptions can shorten or extend this time limit depending on whether a government entity is involved, a minor was injured, or the injury was discovered later. Below is a clear breakdown of Texas’ statute of limitations and what El Paso accident victims need to know.
The Standard 2-Year Rule in Texas
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- Applies to most car accidents
- Clock starts on date of injury
- Applies to:
- Car accidents
- Slip and fall injuries
- Wrongful death (with variations)
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Be clear and direct.
When the Deadline Can Be Shorter
Structured breakdown:
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- Claims against government entities
- Notice may be required within 6 months or less
- Municipal claims (City of El Paso)
- Special statutory limitations
- Claims against government entities
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Urgency = calls.
When the Deadline Can Be Extended
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- Minor children (clock may pause)
- Delayed discovery of injury
- Defendant leaving the state
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Keep explanations simple.
What Happens If You Miss the Deadline?
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- Case dismissed
- No leverage against insurance
- No recovery possible
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Direct and firm.
Why Contact an El Paso Attorney Before the 2-Year Mark?
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- Evidence disappears
- Witness memory fades
- Insurance delays tactics
- Over 25 years serving El Paso
- Free consultation