Car accidents can cause injuries that leave you with medical bills and prevent you from working. If someone else caused the incident, you have grounds to receive compensation. As personal injury laws vary in each state, below are a few important points to know about filing a lawsuit in Alaska.

How Long Do You Have to File a Personal Injury Claim?

A driver, passenger, pedestrian, motorcyclist, or bicyclist involved in a car accident has two years from the date of the incident to file an initial complaint in civil court. This is the first step in starting a lawsuit.

If you’re diagnosed with the injury after the accident, the two-year period starts on the date of discovery. If you’re interested in seeking damages to fix your car, you have two years from the date of the accident to file a suit, too. The same is true when a surviving family member files a wrongful death suit. 

How Is Fault Established in Alaska?

Personal injury laws in Alaska adhere to the pure comparative fault rule. This means the plaintiff’s awarded damages are reduced based on the percentage of fault they hold.

For example, if you were 40% at fault for crossing a red light and the driver was 60% at fault for speeding, you receive 40% less than the damages you incurred. Incurred damages include the sum of lost income, treatment costs, and other injury-related expenses. If the other party was completely at fault, you’re awarded 100% of the quantity you ask for. 

For professional help navigating your legal options after a car accident, contact Darryl L. Jones, Attorney at Law. With three decades of experience serving Matanuska-Susitna Valley and Anchorage, AK, this attorney is well-versed in the state’s personal injury laws. He handles cases involving car crashes, pedestrian accidents, and death. See a full list of practice areas online, or call (907) 278-1212 to discuss your situation.