How long do I have to file a claim if I've been the victim of somebody else's negligence? The short answer is you have four years in Florida. However, don't wait, because the other side's insurance company, the one who caused your problems, are going to be gathering information right from the get-go. They're going to take statements from the eye witnesses. They're going to look for footage from security cameras. They're going to look for footage from mobile phones. These are happening now, and you can't wait. You have to hire a lawyer and have them do the investigation that you need to present your case.