How Long Do You Have to File a Personal Injury Lawsuit in Texas?

If you’ve been injured because of someone else’s negligence, you have the right to seek compensation—but you don’t have forever to take legal action. Texas law sets a strict deadline for filing personal injury lawsuits, and missing it could mean losing your right to recover anything.

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What Is the Statute of Limitations in Texas?

In most personal injury cases in Texas, you have two years from the date of the injury to file a lawsuit. This includes:

• Car accidents
• Slip and falls
• Workplace injuries (in certain cases)
• Product liability claims
• Wrongful death (counted from the date of death)

What Happens If You Miss the Deadline?

If you try to file a claim after the statute of limitations has expired, the court will likely dismiss your case—no matter how strong your evidence is.

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Are There Any Exceptions?

Yes, but they are limited. A court might extend the deadline if:

• The injured person was a minor or legally incapacitated
• The defendant left the state or hid their identity
• The injury wasn’t discovered right away (e.g., some medical malpractice cases)

These exceptions are rare, so it’s critical to act quickly.

Why Time Matters

The sooner you contact a lawyer, the better your chances. Waiting can result in lost evidence, faded memories, and delays in medical care—factors that weaken your case.

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Think you might have a claim?
Let us help you meet the deadlines and maximize your recovery. Contact RHC Law today for a free case review.

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