Georgia Deadlines: What You Need to Know After an Accident
Shane Smith from Shane Smith Law explains the key deadlines that can affect your case.
The Two-Year Rule
In Georgia, most injury claims follow a two-year statute of limitations.
This means:
- You have two years from the date of the accident
- To file a lawsuit, not just make a claim
If that deadline passes:
- Your case can be permanently barred
Important Exception: Traffic Tickets
If a citation was issued in the crash:
- The deadline may be paused until the ticket is resolved
Even so:
- It is safest to proceed as if the two-year deadline still applies
- Waiting creates unnecessary risk
Claims Involving Government Vehicles
A separate rule applies if the accident involves:
- A city vehicle
- A county vehicle
- A state agency
These cases require an ante litem notice before filing suit.
Ante Litem Deadlines
These are much shorter:
- City claims: notice must be given within 6 months
- County or state claims: notice must be given within 1 year
If proper notice is not given:
- The claim can be lost, even if the two-year deadline has not passed
Why This Matters
These deadlines are strict.
Missing them can:
- End your case completely
- Prevent any recovery
There is no flexibility once the time has passed.
Final Thought
The safest approach is simple:
- Act early
- Do not rely on exceptions
- Make sure all deadlines are met
If there is any question about timing, it should be addressed immediately.
You can request our free Victim’s Survival Guide to Car Accidents here:
👉 https://www.shanesmithlaw.com/car-accident-victim-survival-guide/
Or visit:
👉 https://www.shanesmithlaw.com/
In pain? Call Shane.
📞 980-999-9999
