The Texas Statute of Limitations for Personal Injury: Don't Miss Your 2-Year Deadline

Your Injury Claim · Liz Valdez Garza · 2026-10-31

After an accident, recovery comes first — and it should. But the law sets a clock on your right to seek compensation, and once that clock runs out, even a strong case can be lost for good.

The general rule: two years

In Texas, most personal injury lawsuits must be filed within two years of the date of the injury. That includes car and truck accidents, slip-and-fall injuries, many workplace injury lawsuits against non-subscribing employers, and other negligence claims.

This deadline is called the statute of limitations. If a lawsuit isn't filed in time, the court will usually dismiss it.

Wrongful death claims

When someone dies because of another person's negligence, the family generally also has two years — measured from the date of death — to file a wrongful death lawsuit.

Deadlines that can be much shorter

• Claims against government entities. If a city bus, county truck or other government vehicle or property was involved, Texas law can require formal written notice within six months — and some cities require notice even sooner.
• Workers' compensation. You generally must report a work injury to your employer within 30 days and file a claim with the state within one year.
• Insurance policy requirements. Your own policy may require prompt notice of an accident. Waiting too long can put coverage at risk.

Exceptions that may extend the deadline

There are limited situations where the clock may be paused. For example, when the injured person is a minor, the two-year period generally doesn't start until they turn 18. Other exceptions can apply in narrow circumstances. These rules are technical, and relying on an exception without legal advice is risky.

Why waiting hurts even when you have time

Two years sounds like plenty. In practice, evidence disappears much faster:

• Surveillance and dash-cam video is often recorded over within days or weeks
• Witnesses move away or forget details
• Trucking records and vehicle data can be lost or overwritten
• Damaged cars are repaired or sent to salvage

Building a strong claim also takes time — gathering medical records, documenting lost wages and negotiating with insurers. Starting early gives your case the best chance.

Not sure how much time you have?

Don't guess. A free consultation can tell you which deadlines apply to your situation.

If you were hurt and have questions, Attorney Liz Valdez Garza can help. Call 866-LA-LEONA for a free consultation, or use the case review form on this page. Hablamos español.

Frequently Asked Questions

When does the two-year clock start?

In most personal injury cases, it starts on the date of the accident or injury. Limited exceptions exist, so confirm your deadline with an attorney.

What if a government vehicle hit me?

Claims against government entities can require formal notice within six months or even less. Contact an attorney right away.

Valdez Garza Law Firm, P.C. · 1105 East 6th Street, Brownsville, TX 78520 · 866-LA-LEONA (866) 525-3662