How Long Do You Have to File a Claim in Georgia?
In Dublin, Georgia, you have two years from the date of your car accident to file a personal injury claim and four years for property damage under Georgia law (O.C.G.A. § 9-3-33 and § 9-3-32). These deadlines begin on the day of the crash, not when treatment ends or the insurer finishes its review. Missing these deadlines could cost you your right to compensation.
If you were injured in a car crash in Laurens County or elsewhere in Middle Georgia, our Dublin Car Accident Lawyers can help you understand your rights and the deadlines that apply to your case under Georgia law.
Understanding Georgia’s Statute of Limitations for Car Accidents
Under Georgia law (O.C.G.A. § 9-3-33), you have two years from the date of your accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. The clock starts ticking the day the wreck occurs, not when you receive your last medical bill or insurance payment.
Example:
- Accident Date: October 22, 2025
- Deadline: October 22, 2027
Filing even one day after that date will likely result in your case being dismissed. That’s why it’s critical to speak with a Georgia car accident lawyer as soon as possible after a crash.
Why Acting Fast Matters in Dublin, GA
Dublin may be smaller than Macon or Warner Robins, but collisions along US-441, GA-257, and Hillcrest Parkway can cause devastating injuries. Many victims try to handle insurance claims themselves, only to realize too late that the legal clock has expired.
At Brodie Law Group, we’ve helped countless Dublin residents with their injury claims. Our experienced Georgia personal injury attorneys make sure your claim is filed before the statute runs out and every piece of evidence is preserved.
How Long Do You Have for Property Damage Claims in Georgia?
If your car was damaged in a wreck, O.C.G.A. § 9-3-32 gives you four years to file a property damage claim.
However, if you suffered any physical injuries, medical expenses, or missed work, those damages fall under your personal injury claim, which still has the two-year limit.
If you’re unsure what applies to your situation, speak with a Dublin car accident lawyer to ensure you don’t miss an important deadline.
When Georgia’s Deadline Can Be Extended (“Tolling”)
While most cases follow the two-year rule, Georgia law includes limited exceptions that can pause the clock:
- Minors: The statute doesn’t start until the injured person turns 18.
- Mental incapacity: It may pause until the victim regains capacity.
- Out-of-state defendant: If the at-fault driver leaves Georgia, time may be suspended until they return.
- Pending criminal charges: Under O.C.G.A. § 9-3-99, the clock can be delayed if the at-fault driver faces DUI or reckless driving charges.
These situations are complex and rare. Always get legal advice before assuming you have more time.
Why Waiting Hurts Your Case
Time can destroy even a strong claim. After an accident in Dublin, key evidence often disappears quickly:
- Surveillance videos are erased within weeks.
- Witnesses move or forget critical details.
- Vehicles are repaired before expert inspections.
- Medical records become harder to access.
Working with a Georgia car accident attorney early ensures that evidence is preserved and your rights are protected from day one.
Insurance Deadlines vs. Legal Deadlines
Filing an insurance claim does not stop the statute of limitations.
We’ve seen clients who thought their insurer was “handling everything,” only to learn their file was closed after the two-year mark. At Brodie Law Group, we file your legal paperwork on time and manage all communication with insurers so you never lose your right to recover compensation.
Steps to Take After a Car Accident in Dublin, GA
To protect your health and your claim, follow these steps:
- Get medical care right away, even for minor pain.
- Call law enforcement and get an official police report.
- Take photos and videos of vehicles, damage, and injuries.
- Collect witness contact info before leaving the scene.
- Notify your insurer, but avoid giving detailed statements.
- Call Brodie Law Group: we’ll handle your case, protect deadlines, and negotiate on your behalf.
For more details on what to do next, visit our What To Do After a Car Accident In Georgia page for a detailed step-by-step guide.
Common Questions About Filing a Car Accident Claim
Can I file while still in treatment?
Yes. You don’t have to wait for full recovery to start your case. Your attorney can update your damages as your treatment progresses.
What if the other driver was a city or county employee?
Claims involving government vehicles often have much shorter filing windows; sometimes just six months. Contact a lawyer immediately.
What if it’s already been more than two years?
If the at-fault driver faced criminal charges or if the victim was a minor, the time limit might extend. These cases are rare and require immediate legal review.
Quick Reference Summary
Type of Claim | Filing Deadline | Statute |
Personal Injury | 2 Years | O.C.G.A. § 9-3-33 |
Property Damage | 4 Years | O.C.G.A. § 9-3-32 |
Government Claims | As little as 6 Months | Varies by agency |
Criminal Case Delay | Paused Until Case Ends | O.C.G.A. § 9-3-99 |
Local Courts and Resources in Dublin
If your case proceeds to court, it may be handled at:
Laurens County Courthouse
101 N. Jefferson Street
Dublin, GA 31021
(478) 272-4002
Our attorneys regularly handle injury cases throughout Dublin, Dudley, East Dublin, Dexter, and surrounding areas in Laurens County.
Why Choose Brodie Law Group
- Local lawyers serving Dublin and Laurens County
- Decades of experience handling Georgia car accident and Georgia personal injury claims
- No upfront fees – you don’t pay unless we win
- Personalized representation from attorneys who know Georgia courts inside and out
Get Help Before Time Runs Out! Schedule a Consultation Today
Don’t lose your right to compensation. Call Brodie Law Group’s Dublin Car Accident Lawyers today at (478) 239-2780 or schedule your free case review online.
When it comes to Georgia’s statute of limitations, time really is the law. Let us help you beat the clock.
Brodie Law Group
4580 Sheraton Drive
Macon, GA 31210
(478) 239-2780
Serving clients in Dublin, Laurens County, and across Middle Georgia
Learn More About Georgia Accident and Injury Claims
Want to better understand how Georgia law impacts your case? Visit:
Dublin Car Accident Lawyers — Learn what to do after a crash and how our local team handles accident claims in Laurens County.
Dublin Personal Injury Lawyers — Explore how we help injury victims recover compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Georgia Car Accident Lawyer – Learn how Georgia’s car accident laws work, what damages you can recover, and how long you have to file.
- Georgia Personal Injury Lawyer – Explore the full range of cases we handle, from auto accidents and trucking crashes to slip and falls and wrongful death claims.
Also see our local city pages for:
