How Long Do I Have to File a Car Accident Claim in Utah?

In the moments after a car accident, an invisible clock begins counting down. Utah law gives you a specific window to take legal action following a collision, and missing this deadline could cost you thousands in compensation. To protect your right to recover damages, you need to understand exactly how much time you have and what steps you need to take.

The Four-Year Time Limit for Car Accidents in Utah

Utah operates under a no-fault insurance system, which means your own insurance company typically covers your medical expenses and lost wages after an accident, regardless of who caused the crash. However, you can step outside this no-fault system and pursue a claim against the at-fault driver if you have either:

• Incurred at least $3,000 in medical bills from the accident 
• Suffered qualifying serious injuries, such as dismemberment or disfigurement

Utah’s statute of limitations gives you four years from the date of your car accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. This deadline applies to most car accident claims, including those involving negligence, reckless driving, or other forms of driver misconduct. The statute of limitations serves important purposes: it makes sure you pursue your claim while evidence remains fresh and witnesses’ memories stay clear, and it provides defendants with certainty that they won’t face legal threats indefinitely. Reach out to a St. George auto accident attorney as soon as you can after your accident.

Exceptions to the Statute of Limitations in Utah

While four years is the standard statute of limitations for car accident claims in Utah, limited exceptions exist. The most significant exception involves wrongful death cases. If your loved one died in a car accident, you have only two years from the date of death to file a wrongful death lawsuit—not four years from the accident date. This shorter deadline makes immediate legal action even more critical.

Other rare circumstances might affect your filing deadline, such as cases involving minors or individuals who were mentally incapacitated at the time of the accident. These situations are rare, so it is important to work with a lawyer who can determine whether they apply to your situation.

How to Protect Your Right to Compensation After a Collision

Four years might seem like plenty of time, but successful car accident cases require extensive preparation. You need time to gather medical records, obtain accident reports, interview witnesses, consult with experts, and negotiate with insurance companies. With each passing day, evidence disappears, witnesses relocate, and memories fade.

If you try to file your lawsuit after the statute of limitations expires, the court will most likely dismiss your case. Speaking with a car accident attorney immediately after your crash protects your interests from the start. Your lawyer can preserve evidence, handle communications with insurance companies, and help you meet all filing deadlines. 

Begin Your Legal Journey with We Win Injury Law

Utah’s statute of limitations creates a strict deadline that can come up faster than you realize. Acting quickly protects your rights and preserves important evidence for your case. If you have been injured in a car accident, contact us today right away to file your claim before time runs out. Call us today at (435) 688-9558 and discover how our Utah car accident attorneys can fight for you.