Is It Too Late to File a Personal Injury Claim?

November 2025 | By Brice Burris, Partner at Fears Law
As the year winds down and the holiday rush takes over, it’s easy for important tasks—like addressing a personal injury claim—to get pushed aside. But delaying these matters, even unintentionally, can jeopardize your rights, your evidence, and ultimately, your recovery. If you have been injured in an accident, now is the time to act. The end of the year is not the moment to wait and see—it’s the moment to make sure your claim is protected.

Here’s why urgency matters.

Understanding the Statute of Limitations in Texas

In Texas, most personal injury cases must be filed within two years from the date of the accident, as outlined in the Texas Civil Practice & Remedies Code, Section 16.003. That deadline applies to filing a lawsuit—not reporting to insurance, not getting medical care, and not beginning treatment. Additionally, the statute of limitations isn’t always straightforward, and various circumstances can shorten the deadline, making it crucial to consult with an attorney as soon as possible. You may still be within your legal window, but the closer you get to the deadline, the fewer options you have.

Why You Shouldn’t Wait — Especially Now

Even if your statute of limitations hasn’t expired, delaying action at the end of the year can create serious setbacks. The holiday

  1. Evidence Disappears Quickly
    Camera footage is overwritten, vehicles are repaired, and witnesses become harder to reach during the holidays. Acting quickly helps preserve the facts that strengthen your claim.
     
  2. Insurance Companies Slow Down in December
    Adjusters take time off, offices close early, and responses drag out. Waiting until closer to the holidays can stall your case before it even begins.
     
  3. Medical Providers Have Limited Availability
    As the holidays approach, doctors’ offices and hospitals operate with reduced staff, meaning medical documentation—critical to your claim—takes longer to obtain.
     
  4. You Don’t Want to Cut It Close
    
Last-minute filings leave no room for unexpected complications. Running out of time could severely limit your legal options.

Signs You Should Contact an Attorney Before It’s Too Late

If any of the following apply, it’s important to reach out now:

  • Your pain is ongoing or worsening.
  • You’ve missed work or can’t perform your job
  • The insurance company is dragging its feet, downplaying your injuries, or pushing a quick settlement
  • You haven’t received adequate medical care
  • You want clarity and peace of mind heading into the new year

 
A quick call to our personal injury attorneys can give you direction and protect you from costly delays.

If Your Deadlines Are Approaching, Immediate Action Is Critical

With personal injury accident claims, every day counts. Your attorney can still file a lawsuit to preserve your rights—but only if you act fast. At Fears Law, the sooner we’re involved, the more effectively we can move to protect your rights and strengthen your case.

The key is contacting us immediately so filings and documentation can be prepared correctly and without unnecessary pressure

Don’t Let the Holidays Distract You From Protecting Your Future

The end of the year is a busy season for everyone—but your legal rights shouldn’t take a backseat. Whether you were injured in a car accident, truck crash, slip-and-fall, or another incident, delaying action can weaken your case and your compensation.

Time is limited, and once it’s gone, it’s gone. Your recovery deserves urgency—not delay.

If you have questions or want to know whether you’re still within your legal window, the legal team at Fears Law is here to help.

Call us at (214) 214-8800 to schedule a consultation.

About Fears Law

Fears Law is a multi-state law firm dedicated to delivering results-driven legal services in personal injury, business law, and estate planning. With a client-first approach and a team of award-winning attorneys, Fears Law provides trusted representation to individuals, families, and businesses. For more information, visit fears.com.