What is the car accident statute of limitations in Idaho? If you are in a car accident in Idaho, you typically have two years from the date of the incident to file a personal injury claim and three years to file a claim for property damage.
An experienced Boise car accident lawyer can help you understand how the statute of limitations for a car accident lawsuit in Idaho applies to your case so you do not miss an opportunity to hold the responsible party accountable.
What is a Statute of Limitations in Idaho?
A statute of limitations is a law that sets a specific time limit for initiating legal proceedings. Deadlines can vary, depending on the type of claim and the laws of the state where the incident occurred. In the context of a car accident, the statute of limitations dictates how long after an incident a lawsuit can be filed for injuries or property damage resulting from the crash.
These laws are designed to promote fairness by ensuring that claims are brought while evidence is still intact and witness memories are fresh. Once the statute of limitations expires, generally, courts will dismiss your case, no matter how valid or well-documented it may be.
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Idaho’s Statute of Limitations Involving Personal Injury
If you suffered injuries in a car accident, Idaho’s statute of limitations for car accidents dictates that you have two years from the date of the accident to file a claim for personal injury in Idaho. This timeframe is established under Idaho Code § 5-219. Car accident personal injury claims can involve physical injuries, emotional distress, or psychological trauma.
Here are examples of what may qualify as personal injury in a car accident:
- Whiplash and other soft tissue injuries
- Broken bones or fractures
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) or concussions
- Spinal cord injuries or herniated discs
- Deep cuts, bruises, or lacerations
- Burns caused by vehicle fires or airbags
- Internal injuries, such as organ damage or internal bleeding
- Emotional trauma, including anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Loss of mobility or long-term impairment
- Permanent disfigurement or scarring
Even if your injuries appear minor at first, some symptoms can develop over time, which is why it is essential to seek medical attention immediately and begin documenting everything related to your injuries. A delay in treatment or legal action can make it more difficult to prove that there is a connection between the accident and your condition.
What are the Statutes of Limitations for Property Damage?
If your claim involves only damage to your vehicle or other personal property, Idaho’s car accident statute of limitations allows you to file a claim three years from the date of the collision. This extended timeframe recognizes that property damage issues can take longer to assess, estimate, and resolve, especially when insurance companies are involved.
Here are common examples of property damage that may be included in a lawsuit:
- Vehicle repair or replacement costs
- Damage to items inside your vehicle (such as electronics, child car seats, or tools)
- Reduced resale value of your vehicle
- Towing and storage fees following the accident
- Costs associated with rental vehicles while your car is out of service
- Damage to surrounding property, including fences, landscaping, or buildings
Understanding the full scope of property damage can help ensure that all recoverable losses are included in your claim and properly valued during settlement negotiations or litigation.
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Exceptions to the Statute of Limitations for Car Accidents in Idaho
While Idaho’s car accident statute of limitation laws are generally strict, there are several important exceptions that could extend or pause the filing deadline.
Discovery Rule
You may not always recognize injuries immediately after an accident. Idaho law recognizes the discovery rule, which allows the statute of limitations to come into effect on the date the injury was discovered, or reasonably should have been discovered. This exception is often found in cases involving internal injuries or psychological harm that surfaces later.
Minors Involved in Accidents
If the injured party is a minor under the age of 18, the car accident statute of limitations in Idaho does not start until they reach adulthood. Once they turn 18, they then have two additional years to file a personal injury claim, essentially giving them until their 20th birthday to pursue legal action.
Mental Incompetence
When an individual is mentally incapacitated at the time of the accident, Idaho law may allow for the statute of limitations to be tolled (paused) until they regain legal competence. However, this tolling is limited and cannot extend more than six years from the date of the accident.
Claims Involving Government Entities Have Specific Statutes of Limitations for Car Accidents in Idaho
If your accident involved a vehicle owned or operated by a government agency or employee, special procedures apply. In these cases, you must file a notice of claim within 180 days of the accident. Failing to do so may result in your claim being barred.
Once the notice is filed, you then have two years to bring a formal lawsuit, just as you would in a private party claim. If you are unsure how to approach your claim against a government entity, our Boise personal injury lawyer can discuss the details of your case.
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Siegfried & Jensen is Here for You
The period following a car accident can be incredibly stressful, particularly when you are managing injuries, property damage, and emotional strain. If you believe you may have a claim, do not wait to get legal advice.
At Siegfried & Jensen, we understand car accidents and can evaluate your situation, determine whether any exceptions apply, and help you build a solid case to recoup the damages you deserve. Contact us today for a free case evaluation.
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