California's statute of limitations sets strict deadlines for filing personal injury claims. Understanding these deadlines is crucial for protecting your right to compensation after an injury.

Standard Filing Deadlines:

• Personal injury claims: 2 years from the date of injury
• Government entity claims: 6 months to file an administrative claim
• Medical malpractice: 1 year from discovery or 3 years from injury date, whichever comes first

Important Exceptions:

• Discovery Rule: Clock starts when injury is discovered or should have been discovered
• Minors: Deadline typically paused until 18th birthday
• Legal Incapacity: Timing may be extended if victim is mentally incompetent

Key Actions to Protect Your Claim:

1. Seek immediate medical attention
2. Document everything related to the injury
3. Gather evidence promptly (photos, witness statements, medical records)
4. Consult an attorney early in the process

Factors That Can Affect Deadlines:

• Multiple defendants
• Delayed symptoms
• Government involvement
• Discovery of additional injuries

Why Timing Matters:

• Evidence deteriorates over time
• Witness memories fade
• Documentation becomes harder to obtain
• Legal rights may be permanently lost
• Negotiating power diminishes

Critical Steps Before Deadline:

1. Document all accident-related expenses
2. Collect medical records and bills
3. Gather witness statements
4. Preserve physical evidence
5. Calculate future medical costs

Missing the statute of limitations deadline typically bars you from pursuing compensation, regardless of case merit. Consulting with a qualified personal injury attorney ensures proper handling of deadlines and maximizes your chances of recovery.

Professional representation helps by:

• Tracking all relevant deadlines
• Gathering evidence efficiently
• Identifying applicable exceptions
• Managing complex filing requirements
• Ensuring proper documentation

Remember: Early action is essential for preserving your legal rights and securing fair compensation for your injuries.

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