If you’ve been hurt in an accident, time may not be the first thing on your mind. You might be focused on healing, doctor visits, and getting your life back on track. But waiting too long can hurt your chances of getting paid for your injuries.

The clock starts ticking the moment the accident happens. That’s why the best injury lawyers in Toronto always look at the timeline right away.

What Is a Time Limit for Filing?

Every personal injury case has something called a “statute of limitations.” This is a deadline for taking legal action. Once this time runs out, you usually can’t file a lawsuit, no matter how strong your case is. This rule is different depending on where you live and what kind of case you have.

Common Time Limits

In many places, the deadline to file a personal injury lawsuit is two years from the date of the injury. This is common for car accidents, slip-and-fall cases, and other types of injury claims. But not every case is the same. For example, claims involving a government office or worker may have shorter deadlines, sometimes as short as six months.

Why Waiting Can Hurt Your Case

Even if you think you have time, it’s not a good idea to wait. The longer you wait, the harder it becomes to find good proof. Videos can get deleted, witnesses can forget details, and records can go missing. The best injury lawyers know that acting fast gives you a better chance of winning your case.

Exceptions to the Rule

There are some situations where the time limit might be extended. For example, if a person is hurt but doesn’t discover the injury until later, the clock might start when they first notice something is wrong. This can happen with medical mistakes or long-term health issues. But these cases can be harder to prove, and you still need to move quickly.

Talk to a Lawyer Sooner Than Later

It’s never too early to talk to a lawyer after an accident. Even if you’re not sure about filing a lawsuit, a short talk can help you understand your rights and your timeline. The best injury lawyers will look at your case, check your deadline, and help you take the right steps before time runs out.

Don’t let the clock beat your case. If you’ve been hurt, take action now, your future may depend on it.