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Time Limits – Statute Of Limitations In Personal Injury

How Long Do I Have To File An Injury Claim In New Jersey?

Before discussing how long after an accident you can legally file a claim, let’s talk about how long you should take. Every second that passes following a car accident or other personal injury is important. The passage of time blurs memories, erases evidence and makes it less likely that you will receive the full compensation you deserve. While a personal injury lawsuit may take weeks, months or even more than a year to resolve, the sooner we can begin the investigation, the better your chances of getting an excellent result.

A delay, however, is not the end of the world. Your right to file an injury claim extends for some time after the accident. As long as you are within the statute of limitations set by New Jersey law for your situation, you can still pursue a claim. You should not let a delay discourage you from asserting your rights. If you are unsure about your right to sue, speak to one of our attorneys as soon as possible.

New Jersey Statutes Of Limitations

With certain exceptions, an adult injured in a personal injury accident has two years to file a lawsuit after the date of the incident. Children have within two years of their 18th birthday to file a claim. The two-year period is generally applicable to civil claims involving injury, though there are exceptions. In cases involving medical malpractice, claims can be filed up to two years after the victim could have or should have known that malpractice occurred. That distinction is to prevent negligent parties from covering up their mistakes in an attempt to avoid paying compensation.

So, if you have been injured or lost a loved one in a car accident, truck accident, product liability case, medical malpractice situation, nursing home negligence claim or another incident, you will need to file a lawsuit within two years to preserve your rights. At Costello, Mains & Silverman, LLC, in Mount Laurel, New Jersey, we have the resources, skill and drive to protect injured people. Call us at 866-944-3371 to schedule a free case review. You can also contact us online to schedule a consultation with our experienced personal injury lawyers.