How Much Time Do I Have To File A Lawsuit In PA After An Auto Accident?

Dictated by a rule called the “statute of limitations,” a person must file a lawsuit resulting from an accident or injury within a set period of time, or else the request for compensation for damages made by the accusing party will be negated and his or her ability to sue will be forfeited for eternity. Each state puts into law its individual statute of limitations and the amount of time required varies, extending from one year (in Tennessee and Kentucky) to six years (in Maine and North Dakota). Pennsylvania’s statute of limitations is two years.

In numerous states, the kind of injury claim may also influence the time restriction. For instance, some breach of contract suits and cases involving minors (individuals under the age of 18) may be given longer time restrictions. Commonly, the statute of limitations in a claim for injuries to a minor does not start until that person reaches 18 years old. In that situation, if a minor is hurt in a car crash on his 16th birthday and lives in a state with a two year statute of limitations law, he or she would have four years to file a lawsuit. Claims involving UM (uninsured motorist) or UIM (Underinsured Motorist) insurance may also have special stipulations under certain state statute of limitations laws.

Because states routinely modify these rules from one year to the next, it’s crucial to stay updated on any changes regarding your region. Speak with an experienced car accident attorney to fully comprehend how your state’s statute of limitations influences your rights to pursue damages.