If you were injured in an accident in Mobile or anywhere else in Alabama, you have the legal right to pursue compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. But personal injury claims are extremely time-sensitive. One of the first questions many people ask is: How long do I have to file a personal injury lawsuit in Alabama? The answer is that, in most cases, you only have two years. Below, our Mobile personal injury lawyer explains what you need to know about Alabama’s statute of limitations and why acting quickly is so important.
Alabama’s Statute of Limitations for Personal Injury Cases: Two Years
Under Alabama law (Code of Alabama § 6-2-38), you generally have two years from the date of the accident or injury to file a personal injury lawsuit. This deadline applies to car accidents, slip and falls, truck crashes, wrongful death claims, and most other injury cases. If you fail to file within this two-year window, the court will almost certainly dismiss your case—regardless of how severe your injuries are or how clear the other party’s fault may be. That means you lose your chance to recover compensation entirely. While two years may sound like a long time, the reality is that investigations, evidence gathering, and negotiations take time. Waiting too long can put your entire case at risk.
Are There Any Exceptions to the Two-Year Rule?
Yes, but they are limited and should not be relied upon unless absolutely necessary. A few examples include:
- Injured minors: If the victim was under 19 at the time of the accident, the statute of limitations may be paused (“tolled”) until they reach legal adulthood. Parents, however, may still file claims on behalf of their child sooner.
- Fraud or concealment: If a defendant deliberately hides their role in causing the injury, the filing deadline may be extended.
- Government claims: When a government entity is involved, the deadline is often shorter—sometimes as little as six months to file notice of a claim.
Because exceptions can be complex and are not always favorable, it is critical to seek legal guidance immediately to ensure your rights are protected.
Why You Should Act Now, Not Later
The statute of limitations is a strict deadline, but waiting until the last minute can seriously weaken your case. Insurance companies often move quickly to minimize payouts, and key evidence—such as accident reports, witness statements, and medical documentation—can be lost over time. The sooner you involve an experienced personal injury attorney, the stronger your case will be.
Contact a Mobile, AL Personal Injury Lawyer Today
At Roger Varner Injury Law, we fight to protect the rights of injured victims across Alabama. If you have questions about the statute of limitations or need immediate help after an accident, call us today at (833) 482-7637 or contact us online for a free, no-obligation consultation. From our office in Mobile, we represent clients throughout the region and are ready to help you secure the justice and compensation you deserve.