How long after an accident can i seek to collect damages?

Question

A friend borrowed my vehicle about 2 years ago. He got into an accident. At the time I didn't make him pay because he had no money. I know now that he would be able to pay me for the damages. Can I still collect from him? This occured in Washington. The vehicle is still driveable but according to the estimate the damage he caused totaled my vehicle.

Answer 1

Yes, you can get compensated. Is your friend refusing to pay for his mistake? That's not cool at all, especially when you were nice enough to let him use your car. Since you were the owner of the vehicle, the insurance company should have contacted you about property damage, and he should have contacted a lawyer for personal injuries. Unfortunately, I've been through it several times, I know how devastating this can be for you. However, if the insurance company compensated him or if he has enough money now for what ever reason, I believe you should get paid, and I think the law would agree with me. Talk to your friend, write him letters stating that you want your car fixed or paid for.If he agrees ask him to sign that statement or if it doesn't go smoothly, I would say sue him. I know it might be difficult to put your friend through that, but sometimes in order to learn in this life the law has to step forward and correct him. He might learn a thing or two about morals. I hope I helped. Best of luck!

P.S you still have time to do something about this. Call the courthouse, they can help to inform you of your options. You might have to go to small claims court depending on how much damage was made to the vehicle. hope I helped :)

Answer 2

That's called "statute of limitations." I'd imagine two years...you can run a Google search and/or call an attorney for advice.

Answer 3

Check the statute of limitations in your state. It varies by state!!