When you’re injured in an accident — whether on I-20 in Augusta, at a workplace in Evans, or in a slip-and-fall in Martinez — time is not on your side. Georgia’s statute of limitations sets strict deadlines for filing personal injury claims, and missing that window can mean losing your right to seek compensation altogether.
At Burnside Law Firm LLP, with offices in Augusta and Athens, our attorneys bring over 50 years of combined experience handling personal injury, wrongful death, and medical malpractice cases across Georgia. Recognized by Best Lawyers in America, Super Lawyers, and Martindale-Hubbell, our legal team is trusted throughout the state for its ethical advocacy, courtroom skill, and deep understanding of Georgia’s legal system.
What Is the Statute of Limitations in Georgia?
Under O.C.G.A. § 9-3-33, most personal injury lawsuits in Georgia must be filed within two years of the date of the injury. For example, if you were hurt in a car accident in Augusta on January 1, 2025, you generally have until January 1, 2027 to file your claim in court.
This two-year period applies to most accident-related injuries — from vehicle collisions and workplace accidents to premises liability claims. Some exceptions include:
- Medical malpractice: Two years from the injury or death, but no more than five years from the negligent act.
- Wrongful death: Two years from the date of death.
- Property damage: Four years.
- Claims involving government agencies: Six to twelve months, depending on whether it’s a city, county, or state entity.
Georgia courts enforce these deadlines strictly — even being one day late can result in dismissal. The attorneys at Burnside Law Firm LLP ensure every deadline is met with precision so your case remains valid under state law.
Why Acting Quickly Matters in Georgia
Each year, the Georgia Governor’s Office of Highway Safety reports more than 400,000 vehicle crashes statewide, leading to over 125,000 injuries and 1,600 fatalities. Richmond County, where Augusta is located, consistently ranks among the top five counties for collisions.
These accidents often involve severe injuries that take months to document — from traumatic brain injuries to spinal cord damage. As time passes, witness memories fade, evidence deteriorates, and insurance companies gain leverage. Acting quickly helps preserve the strength of your case and ensures compliance with Georgia’s filing deadlines.
Founding partner Thomas R. Burnside III — honored as one of Georgia Trend’s Legal Elite and among The National Trial Lawyers’ Top 100 Trial Lawyers — has guided hundreds of Georgia clients through this process. His leadership roles on the State Bar of Georgia Board of Governors and State Disciplinary Board reflect a career built on integrity, service, and professionalism.
Common Pitfalls That Lead to Missed Deadlines
Many accident victims lose their right to recover damages simply because they misunderstand when the statute begins. In most cases, the countdown starts on the date of injury, but exceptions apply — especially in medical malpractice cases or situations involving delayed discovery.
In Augusta, where major medical centers like Piedmont Augusta and Doctors Hospital treat thousands of trauma patients annually, it’s not uncommon for symptoms to emerge weeks or months later. The Georgia Department of Public Health lists accidental injuries as the fourth-leading cause of death statewide, emphasizing how urgent timely legal action can be.
At Burnside Law Firm LLP, attorneys Garon Muller, Robert MacGregor, and Ashton Revollo work alongside Thomas Burnside to ensure no detail is overlooked. Their backgrounds in trial advocacy, government law, and community leadership — including Turn Back the Block and Leadership Augusta — provide clients with well-rounded and timely representation across Georgia.
How Our Attorneys Safeguard Your Right to File
At Burnside Law Firm LLP, we take proactive measures to ensure no filing deadline is ever missed:
- Immediate Legal Action: Once you contact our office, we begin case evaluation and file all required notices — especially vital for government claims, which may have just a six-month limit.
- Preserving Critical Evidence: Georgia crash data shows that accident-scene evidence can deteriorate by more than 70 percent within two months. Our team immediately gathers records, photos, and witness statements to protect your claim.
- Monitoring Statutory Changes: Our attorneys are active members of the Georgia Bar Association and the American Association for Justice, staying up to date on procedural changes that could impact filing deadlines.
- Personalized Case Management: Each client works directly with an attorney — not a paralegal — to ensure your case progresses efficiently and transparently from start to finish.
The Cost of Missing Georgia’s Statute of Limitations
Missing a filing deadline can end your case before it ever begins. Once the statute expires, courts almost always dismiss the lawsuit — no matter how compelling the evidence may be. You could lose the right to recover compensation for medical costs, lost income, and pain and suffering.
According to Georgia insurance statistics, the average personal-injury settlement ranges from $30,000 to $100,000, while catastrophic cases can reach the seven-figure range. Missing the filing window could mean losing life-changing financial recovery.
That’s why residents across Augusta, Athens, Atlanta, Evans, and Waynesboro trust Burnside Law Firm LLP — a firm known for diligence, precision, and results in Georgia’s toughest personal-injury cases.
Why Burnside Law Firm LLP Is the Right Choice
Choosing the right attorney is about more than legal knowledge — it’s about partnership, accountability, and trust. Clients across Georgia turn to Burnside Law Firm LLP because we combine courtroom experience with a client-first approach built on communication and compassion.
A Proven Record of Success
Our attorneys have secured meaningful results for clients in car crashes, workplace injuries, medical malpractice, and wrongful death cases throughout Georgia’s state and federal courts. With over 50 years of combined litigation experience, we know how to navigate the complexities of personal-injury law — and we’re not afraid to take cases to trial when justice demands it.
Respected Leadership in the Legal Community
- Thomas R. Burnside III has held leadership positions on the State Bar of Georgia’s Board of Governors and served on the State Disciplinary Board, helping shape ethical standards statewide.
- Garon Muller has been recognized by Super Lawyers and the Augusta Metro Chamber’s “Top Ten in Ten” Awardand currently serves as Chairman of Turn Back the Block, reflecting his commitment to the Augusta community.
- Robert MacGregor, admitted in both Georgia and South Carolina, brings trial experience from his years as a public defender in the Augusta Judicial Circuit, giving him a rare perspective on both sides of the courtroom.
- Ashton Revollo, an Emory Law graduate, represents the next generation of strong advocacy — blending academic excellence with compassion for injured clients.
Recognition That Speaks Volumes
Our firm has earned honors from:
- Best Lawyers in America
- Super Lawyers
- Georgia Trend’s Legal Elite
- Martindale-Hubbell AV Preeminent Rating
- The National Trial Lawyers: Top 100 Trial Lawyers
These awards aren’t just accolades — they reflect our commitment to delivering exceptional results with professionalism and integrity.
Local Insight, Statewide Reach
From downtown Augusta to Clarke County, our attorneys understand Georgia’s courts, judges, and juries. We combine local relationships with statewide litigation experience to deliver effective representation that’s both personal and powerful.
When you work with Burnside Law Firm LLP, you’re not just hiring a law firm — you’re gaining a trusted advocate dedicated to your recovery and your future.
Frequently Asked Questions About Georgia’s Statute of Limitations
Q: How long do I have to file after a car accident in Georgia?
A: You generally have two years from the date of the crash to file a personal-injury lawsuit.
Q: Does filing an insurance claim stop the statute of limitations?
A: No. Only filing a lawsuit in court pauses the clock.
Q: Can I file if I discover my injury later?
A: Yes, in some cases. Georgia’s “discovery rule” allows extra time when an injury isn’t immediately apparent.
Q: Are there different timelines for minors or incapacitated individuals?
A: Yes. The statute can be “tolled,” or paused, until the person turns 18 or regains legal capacity.
Q: Where are personal-injury cases filed in Augusta?
A: Most cases are filed in Richmond County State or Superior Court, though some may fall under federal jurisdiction.
Takeaway: Protect Your Rights Before Time Runs Out
Every personal-injury claim in Georgia has a countdown. Delays in filing can lead to lost evidence, weaker claims, and even complete forfeiture of compensation. At Burnside Law Firm LLP, our attorneys take immediate action to protect your rights and keep your case on track. Whether your injury occurred in Augusta, Athens, or anywhere in Georgia, our experienced legal team stands ready to help you pursue justice and financial recovery.
Don’t wait until it’s too late — let our experience, reputation, and relentless advocacy work for you. Visit our Personal Injury or Car Accident Attorney in Augusta pages to learn more and schedule your consultation today.
Posted on behalf of
