A traumatic car crash is a life changing event, especially when injuries are involved. The health and safety of you and your family members is always top priority. Your focus is on recovery not compensation. The law, however, limits the time you have to take action. California law effectively sets the statute of limitations or time limit for filing a personal injury claim at two years. This same time limit applies for wrongful death suits resulting from a car accident. This time period begins on the date of the accident. In.