Statute Of Limitations

You’ve no doubt heard the term “statute of limitations.” However, do you know what it means? This term is omnipresent in the world of law. But, it is important to understand what it means in your situation.

Legal Definition

The Legal Dictionary defines statute of limitations as:
“A type of federal or state law that restricts the time within which legal proceedings may be brought.”

In personal injury cases, the term restricts the injured from filing a lawsuit after a certain amount of time. The law requires the injured to file a claim within a reasonable timeframe.

Likewise, the most common timeframe is within 2 years after the date of the incident. This prevents fraudulent claims and unjust punishment. This time limit is often different for medical malpractice or sexual abuse cases.

Statute Of Limitations In A Personal Injury Case

In a personal injury case, the case must be filed before the set deadline. If not, your claim is forever banned from entering the court system. This means you forever lose your right to earn compensation for your injury.

Civil Statute Of Limitations

For most injury cases, the statute of limitations is 2 years. 2 years is the time allowed to file a lawsuit for compensation. Please understand, you must file your claim within the 2-year limit. A claim can take longer than 2 years to settle or go before a jury.

Statute Of Limitations Against Government

If your suit is against a governmental agency, your allowed timeframe may be shorter than 2 years. In Pennsylvania, you must file a claim within 6 months of the date of the incident. In New Jersey, you have 90 days to file a claim against the government. It is important to talk to a lawyer as soon as possible to protect your rights.

Different Time Limits

The details of your injury case may determine a different statute of limitations. Consulting with an injury attorney will help determine how long you have to file. However, don’t wait until the 2-year mark to talk to a lawyer. Getting the best results means giving a lawyer plenty of time to investigate your case.

Toll The Statute Of Limitations

It is possible to “toll” the statute of limitations. A “toll” is referring to “pausing time.” The running of the timeclock is in other words suspended or extended until a future date.

How We Can Help

After an injury, you need a reputable personal injury attorney on your side. Our legal staff at Kane & Silverman will aid you through the legal system. We are sympathetic to your injury and will hold the wrongdoer accountable.

We will investigate the specifics of your case and determine how long you have to file. Then we will put together your case to prove you deserve compensation for your injury. Call or text us today at 215-232-1000. Or, use our online contact form to schedule a free consultation.
Consultations are always free. You never pay us anything unless we recover money for you.