A statute of limitations is a legislative act that defines the maximum time parties in a dispute have to undertake legal proceedings from the date of the alleged offense. The specified length varies depending on your jurisdiction and the nature of your case.
The legal timeline depends on the kind of personal injury incident in question. For example, Connecticut law states that a statute of limitation of two years applies from the date someone suffers an injury or from when doctors discovered it. This covers all injuries caused by negligence, malpractice or misconduct. Further, it states that you can’t file a lawsuit three years after the act or omission that led to your injuries.
Lawsuit vs. insurance claim
A statute of limitation only applies to filing a lawsuit in court. Insurance companies may have their own limits that apply to claims filed with them. Therefore, it is essential to give yourself enough time to turn to the courts if you cannot agree on a settlement.
Importantly, unlike most states, Connecticut does not have special considerations for minors regarding personal injury statute of limitations.
Safeguard your legal rights
Going beyond the specified timeline may adversely affect your case. You may lose your right to be heard, and you might have to settle for whatever compensation amount extended to you by an insurance company instead. That offer may not cover all the bills that you have.
As such, it is necessary to take legal action as soon as possible following a personal injury. In addition, learning about how the law operates and the potential amount of compensation you are entitled to will help protect your interests all through your case.
