When you’re injured in an accident, time matters as much as evidence. Under Texas law, you have a limited window to take legal action against the party who caused your injuries. Missing that deadline can mean losing your right to recover compensation, no matter how strong your case is.
This blog explains how long you have to file a personal injury claim in Dallas, why deadlines vary depending on the case, and what steps to take before time runs out.
What Is the Statute of Limitations for Personal Injury in Texas?
In most cases, you have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit in Texas. This deadline applies to a wide range of claims, including:
- Car, truck, and motorcycle accidents
- Slip and fall or premises liability cases
- Pedestrian and bicycle accidents
- Construction and workplace injuries (not covered by workers’ comp)
- Dog bites and animal attacks
- Wrongful death claims (two years from the date of death)
If you file your claim after this two-year period, the court will likely dismiss your case. That’s why it’s critical to act early, even if you’re still recovering from your injuries.
When Does the Clock Start Running?
The two-year statute of limitations generally starts on the date the injury occurred. However, there is an exception known as the “discovery rule.” The discovery rule applies when you didn’t know—and couldn’t reasonably have known—that you were injured or that another party was responsible. For example:
- A delayed diagnosis due to medical negligence
- Exposure to toxic substances can cause long-term illness
- Hidden defects in a product that later cause harm
In these cases, the two-year period begins when you discover (or should have discovered) your injury, not the original event date.
Are There Shorter Deadlines for Certain Claims?
Yes. Some claims in Dallas and throughout Texas have shorter notice requirements:
- Claims against government entities:
If your injury involved a city, county, or state employee (for example, a Dallas city bus crash or dangerous municipal property), you must file a notice of claim within six months—and sometimes even sooner, depending on the agency. - Claims involving minors:
For minors under 18, the statute of limitations typically doesn’t begin until they reach adulthood. Parents, however, can still file claims on the child’s behalf before that.
Because these exceptions are complex, consulting an attorney early ensures you meet every required deadline.
Why Acting Quickly Helps Your Case
Beyond the legal deadline, there are practical reasons to move fast after an accident:
- Evidence disappears: Skid marks fade, surveillance footage gets erased, and property conditions change.
- Witness memories fade: The sooner statements are taken, the more reliable they are.
- Medical documentation matters: Prompt treatment creates a clear link between your injuries and the accident.
- Insurance tactics: Delaying your claim can give insurers room to argue that your injuries weren’t serious or weren’t caused by the incident.
Even if you’re not ready to file immediately, consulting a lawyer ensures your claim is preserved and evidence secured.
How a Dallas Personal Injury Lawyer Can Help
At Rochelle McCullough, we handle every step of the personal injury process for clients across the Dallas–Fort Worth area. Our team:
- Reviews medical records, police reports, and witness evidence
- Calculates damages for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering
- Communicates with insurance adjusters so you don’t have to
- Files your lawsuit on time and handles all court deadlines
- Builds a case for full compensation through settlement or trial
We understand how overwhelming recovery can be—and how critical timing is when pursuing justice.
Dallas Personal Injury Attorneys
In Texas, most personal injury victims have two years to file a claim—but waiting that long can weaken your case. Acting quickly protects your rights and strengthens your ability to recover the compensation you deserve.
If you were injured in Dallas or anywhere in North Texas, contact Rochelle McCullough today. We’ll review your case, explain your timeline, and help you take action before the clock runs out.