In North Carolina, the statute of limitations for filing a lawsuit after a car accident is generally three (3) years from the accident date. This applies to lawsuits seeking compensation for personal injuries and property damage.
Exceptions to the 3-Year Rule:
- Wrongful Death Claims – If the accident resulted in a death, the deceased’s family has two (2) years from the date of death to file a wrongful death lawsuit.
- Claims Against the Government—Special rules and shorter deadlines may apply if the accident involves a government vehicle or employee.
Important Considerations:
North Carolina follows a contributory negligence rule, meaning if you are even 1% at fault, you may be barred from recovering compensation.
Filing a claim with an insurance company differs from filing a lawsuit, and insurance deadlines may be much shorter.
If you’re considering legal action, it’s best to consult with a personal injury attorney as soon as possible to ensure you don’t miss any deadlines.
