If you have been injured in an accident, you might feel overwhelmed by everything that comes afterward. Medical appointments, lost income, and ongoing pain can make it hard to focus on the legal side of things. But understanding how long you have to file a personal injury claim is essential if you want to protect your rights. This period of time is called the statute of limitations, and if you wait too long, you could lose your ability to recover compensation, no matter how strong your case might be. Continue reading and reach out to a knowledgeable Manhattan personal injury lawyer from The Law Office of Richard M. Kenny to learn more. Here are some of the questions you may have:
How long do I have to file a personal injury claim in New York?
In most situations, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury lawsuit in New York is three years from the date of the accident. This means that if you were hurt in a car crash, slip and fall, construction accident, or another type of incident, you generally have three years to begin your legal action. That might sound like plenty of time, but it can pass much faster than you expect, especially if you are focused on healing and trying to get your life back on track.
It is important to keep in mind that certain types of cases might have shorter deadlines. For example, if your injury involved a government agency or city property, you might have to file a notice of claim within ninety days, and the lawsuit itself within one year and ninety days. These strict rules make it crucial to act promptly.
Why is the statute of limitations so important?
The statute of limitations exists to ensure that legal claims are brought while evidence is still available and memories are still fresh. Over time, it becomes harder to gather accurate witness statements, secure necessary documents, or reconstruct what actually happened. If you miss the deadline, the defendant can ask the court to dismiss your case, and the judge will almost always grant that request.
No matter how serious your injuries are or how clear it seems that someone else was at fault, waiting too long could mean you lose the chance to recover compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Speaking with a personal injury lawyer as soon as possible can help you avoid missing critical deadlines and give you the best chance at a successful claim.
What should I do if I am not sure about the deadline?
If you are unsure how much time you have to file, or if you think the deadline might be approaching, it is always a good idea to consult a personal injury attorney right away. An experienced lawyer can review the details of your case, identify any special rules that might apply, and guide you on the best steps to take.
Trying to figure it all out on your own can be risky, especially with complex cases or situations involving public entities. Getting legal advice early can give you peace of mind and help protect your rights.
If you have additional questions or believe you have a valid personal injury claim, please don’t hesitate to contact The Law Office of Richard M. Kenny today.
CONTACT OUR EXPERIENCED NEW YORK CITY FIRM
Our entire legal team is dedicated to providing the advice you need and the personalized attention you deserve. If you have been injured due to another party’s negligence, call (212) 421-0300 or fill out our contact form to schedule a free consultation with a slip & fall lawyer. You may be entitled to financial compensation, which can help you on your road to recovery.
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