What Is the Time Limit for Filing a Personal Injury Claim in New Jersey?
An accident injury can turn your life upside down. On top of the physical and emotional pain, you might be struggling with lost wages and mounting medical bills. If your injury was caused by someone else’s negligence, New Jersey law gives you the right to pursue compensation through a personal injury claim. But there’s one critical detail you can’t afford to overlook: the statute of limitations. Acting quickly and decisively is key to protecting your rights and securing the compensation you deserve.
NJ’s Statue of Limitations for Personal Injury Claims: What You Need to Know
The statute of limitations is a legal deadline that tells you how long you have to file a lawsuit in New Jersey. For most personal injury cases, you’ve got two years from the date of your accident to take legal action. So, if you’re planning to file a lawsuit against the person or party responsible for your injury, you need to do it within that two-year window to seek compensation.
Keep in mind, that this deadline only applies to lawsuits—not insurance claims. You might have more time to file a claim with the at-fault party’s insurance company. But when it comes to taking your case to court, the two-year limit is firm.
Exceptions to the Filing Deadline
There are a few situations where the two-year time limit in New Jersey doesn’t apply right away. For example, if you were under 18 when the accident happened, the clock doesn’t start until your 18th birthday. Another example is if your injury symptoms showed up later—this could extend the deadline too. But these situations can get tricky, so it’s important to get legal advice to figure out what applies to you.
What Happens If You Miss the Deadline
Missing the two-year deadline in New Jersey can be a big deal. If you don’t file your lawsuit in time (even with an exception), you probably won’t be able to take your case to court. That could mean losing out on compensation for things like medical bills, lost income, pain, and suffering. So, staying on top of the timeline is crucial to protect your rights.
What to Do Right After an Injury
If you’ve been hurt in an accident, here’s what to do next:
- Get medical help: Your health comes first. Make sure to get checked out and treated for any injuries.
- Gather evidence: Take photos of the scene, collect witness statements, and get a copy of the police report if there is one.
- File an insurance claim: Even if you’re thinking about a lawsuit, it’s still a good idea to file a claim with the at-fault party’s insurance.
- Talk to a lawyer: Reach out to a personal injury attorney to explore your legal options and figure out your next steps.
An NJ Law Firm specializing in personal injury cases can help you understand the specific laws and deadlines that apply to your case. They can also negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf and prepare a strong case for trial if needed.
Get Expert Guidance from a Personal Injury Attorney
Having the right attorney can make all the difference in your personal injury case. Experienced lawyers can guide you through New Jersey law and help you take the best course of action.
During your consultation, we’ll discuss your accident, assess your claim, and explain the statute of limitations. We’ll handle the legal paperwork and filings, ensuring deadlines are met and your chances of success are high.
Missing a deadline can jeopardize the compensation you’re entitled to—don’t risk it. If you’ve been injured in New Jersey because of someone else’s negligence, take action now. Talk to an experienced NJ-based attorney who can guide you through the process and help you secure the results you deserve.