What Is the Statute of Limitations for Car Accident Cases in NC?

What Is the Statute of Limitations for Car Accident Cases in NC?

Direct Answer: In North Carolina, you have three years from the date of your car accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. If you miss this deadline, you lose your right to pursue compensation for your injuries, regardless of how strong your case may be.

Why the Deadline Matters

The statute of limitations is a strict legal deadline set by North Carolina law. Once three years pass from your accident date, the court will dismiss your case, and you cannot recover damages for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, or any other losses—even if the other driver was clearly at fault.

Important Exceptions and Considerations

While the general rule is three years, certain circumstances can affect this timeline:

• Property damage claims follow a different three-year deadline, calculated separately from injury claims
• Claims involving minors may extend the deadline until the injured person turns 18
• Discovery rule in rare cases may adjust when the clock starts if injuries were not immediately apparent
• Government vehicles require filing a notice of claim within a much shorter timeframe, sometimes as brief as six months

Don't Wait to Take Action

Although three years may seem like plenty of time, waiting to pursue your claim creates serious risks. Evidence disappears, witnesses forget details, and your case becomes harder to prove. Insurance companies also view delayed claims with suspicion, potentially reducing settlement offers.

At The Law Offices of John M. McCabe, our car accident lawyers recommend starting the legal process as soon as possible after your collision. Early action allows us to thoroughly investigate your case, preserve critical evidence, and build the strongest claim for maximum compensation.

Contact our personal injury lawyers today to discuss your car accident case and ensure you meet all applicable deadlines for pursuing the compensation you deserve.