Finding out the driver who hit you doesn’t have insurance can feel like a nightmare. With medical bills, car repairs, and lost wages piling up, you may wonder: “Am I just stuck paying for everything myself?” The good news is — you still have options.

After a car accident, time starts ticking — and not just for your health or car repairs. Every insurance policy comes with deadlines, and missing them could cost you your entire claim. The problem is, most people don’t know exactly how long they have to file. Some wait too long, thinking they’re fine, while others rush without the right documentation. Here’s what you need to know about insurance claim deadlines.