An injury accident can be a life-changing event, and it can be stressful to navigate the legal system that follows. One of the most important aspects of personal injury law is the statute of limitations. This is the time limit within which you must file a lawsuit or forfeit your right to compensation. The statute of limitations varies for different types of injuries and across states. It’s essential to understand what a personal injury statute of limitations is, how it works, and what factors affect it. In this article, we will go over the personal injury statute of limitations by state for all 50 states to help you understand your legal rights and options.

What is the Statute of Limitations?

A statute of limitations is a law that sets a limit on the amount of time you have to file a lawsuit after an event has occurred. In personal injury cases, the statute of limitations is the time limit in which you can file a lawsuit to seek compensation for your injuries. Each state has different statutes of limitations for different types of personal injury cases. For instance, in some states, the statute of limitations for medical malpractice cases is shorter than that for car accident cases.

The Personal Injury Statute of Limitations By State

It’s essential to know the applicable statute of limitations in your state and the type of case you have. This information can be found in your state’s legal code, or you can consult with a personal injury lawyer. Missing the statute of limitations can be devastating, as it will likely mean you won’t be able to seek compensation for your injuries. The defendant can use the expiration of the statute of limitations as a defense to have your case dismissed without compensating you for your injuries.

The table below outlines the statute of limitations for personal injury claims in all 50 states throughout the United States.

When Does the Clock on the Statute of Limitations Begin?

The statute of limitations for personal injury cases typically begins on the date the injury occurs, or the date you discover the injury. In some cases, such as car accidents, the date of injury is the date of the accident. In other cases, such as medical malpractice, the date of discovery might be later than the date of the actual injury, depending on when you realized you were harmed.

Can the Statute of Limitations Be Extended?

The statute of limitations deadlines can be extended or paused under some circumstances. For instance, if the injured party is a minor, the statute of limitations period may not begin to run until he or she reaches the age of majority. Additionally, the statute of limitations may be extended if the defendant leaves the state or is incarcerated. In contrast, if the injured party is mentally disabled, the statute of limitations may be extended until he or she is no longer incapacitated. To take one state as an example, there are multiple exceptions to the statute of limitations in Texas, though they rarely apply to most injury claims.

The statute of limitations for personal injury claims can be complex and the statute of limitations by state can vary. It’s crucial to be aware of the time limit within which to file a claim to avoid losing your right to compensation. Make sure to seek legal counsel if you are unsure of the statute of limitations applicable to your case. With this information, you can stay informed and take the necessary steps to protect your rights and obtain appropriate compensation.