Statutes of Limitation for Car, Truck, and Motorcycle Accidents in Montana

We get calls on this issue all of the time: How long do I have to sue? For a Montana car, truck, or motorcycle accident, the following general rules apply:

You have three years from the date of a negligently-caused automobile accident in which to sue the responsible driver(s) for your personal injuries. See M.C.A. 27-2-204; St. Paul Fire & Marine Ins. Co. v. Glassing (1994), 269 Mont. 76, 79-80, 887 P.2d 218, 220-221. If you are contemplating suit against your own uninsured or underinsured motorist carrier, the eight-year limitations period for written contracts applies. See Farmers Alliance Mut. Ins. Co. v. Holeman, 1998 MT 155, ¶¶ 19-21, 289 Mont. 312, 961 P.2d 114.

When and why your limitations period runs depends on the facts. You've probably heard it before; seek professional help.