We’ve now officially hit 2026. Where did last year go? During the year, you’ve likely been through a lot. If that also includes being in an accident or suffering an injury, 2026 might be the year you need to file your personal injury lawsuit. There are strict statutes of limitations under Texas law, and your deadline is likely running. Filing quickly after an accident is important to protecting your claim and your rights to potential compensation.
At Griffin Law Group, LLC, our dedicated Texas personal injury lawyer is ready to fight for the compensation you deserve. Get in touch today to avoid missing filing deadlines and to protect critical evidence.
What Is the Statute of Limitations for Personal Injury in Texas?
A statute of limitations is a filing deadline. You must file your personal injury case by the deadline, or it will be dismissed in most instances. Under Texas law, you usually have two years from the date of your injury to file your personal injury claim.
This two-year deadline applies to most common personal injury cases, including:
- Car accidents
- Truck accidents
- Motorcycle crashes
- Slip-and-fall injuries
- Dog bites
- Negligence-based injuries of all types
Texas courts strictly enforce this deadline. If you file even one day late, your case will almost certainly be dismissed, no matter how strong your evidence is or how severe your injuries are.
Are There Exceptions to the Two-Year Deadline?
Yes, there are exceptions. But they are rare. Texas law recognizes a few situations where the statute of limitations may be paused (“tolled”) or extended.
While exceptions exist, Texas courts apply them narrowly. Most people should assume the standard two-year deadline applies unless an attorney confirms otherwise.
Potential exceptions include:
1. Injuries to Minors
If the injured person is under 18, the statute of limitations may not begin until they reach adulthood. This means a minor may have until age 20 to file a claim.
2. The Discovery Rule
In rare cases, the deadline may begin when the injury is discovered rather than when it occurred. This applies only when the injury could not reasonably have been discovered earlier.
3. Defendant Leaves the State
If the at-fault party leaves Texas after the accident, the clock may pause until they return.
Why Acting Quickly Matters
Filing early helps:
- Preserve evidence
- Secure witness statements
- Prevent disputes over fault
- Avoid insurance company delay tactics
- Ensure your case is filed before the deadline expires
What Happens If You Miss the Deadline?
If you file after the statute of limitations expires, the court will almost certainly dismiss your case. You will lose your right to compensation for:
- Medical bills
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Future medical care
- Disability or impairment
When Should You Contact a Texas Personal Injury Attorney?
You should speak with an attorney immediately if:
- Your accident happened within the last two years
- You are unsure of your exact deadline
- The insurance company is delaying or denying your claim
- You suffered serious or long-term injuries
- You are approaching the two-year mark
An attorney can calculate your exact deadline, preserve evidence, and file your lawsuit on time.
File Your Texas Personal Injury Lawsuit in Time
2026 can be a fresh start, but it’s also time to take care of any business left over from 2025. That includes filing any personal injury claims you haven’t gotten to yet. Don’t let you claim pass you by, or you could be stuck with the medical bills, lost income, and suffering all without compensation from the responsible party.
Consult a Texas personal injury lawyer at Griffin Law Group, LLC for help. Contact us today for a consultation of your case.