Under Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code Section 16.003, you have exactly two years from the date of your injury to file a personal injury lawsuit. This deadline applies to Houston residents pursuing claims for car accidents, truck wrecks, slip and falls, and general negligence. If you miss this two-year window, the Harris County District Court will almost certainly dismiss your case and you will permanently lose your right to seek compensation. There are limited exceptions. If the injured person is a minor under 18, the clock does not start until they turn 18. The deadline is also paused for individuals who are mentally incapacitated at the time of injury. For wrongful death claims, the two-year period starts on the date of death, not the date of the original accident. Given how strict this deadline is, Houston residents should contact an attorney as soon as possible after an injury to protect their rights.