Personal Injury Blog

Should I Wait to File a PI Claim in NJ?

If you are dealing with the aftermath of a serious accident, and you have suffered a severe injury, you may consider taking legal action. If you’re like many accident victims, you may be wondering if you should wait before filing a personal injury claim. Perhaps you would like to wait to get more information regarding your injuries, or maybe you’re unsure if your injuries are serious enough to warrant filing a claim.

Whenever you are dealing with a personal injury, it’s important to speak with an experienced attorney in New Jersey as soon as possible. That’s because it is much more challenging to obtain evidence to support your claim the longer you wait. The more time goes by, the more witness memories fade, or evidence goes missing or is erased, which makes it harder to recover full compensation for damages.

It may take a few months to several years to resolve your personal injury case. The sooner you file your claim, the sooner an investigation can be launched, and the more likely your case will yield a positive outcome. Speak with a New Jersey personal injury lawyer today.

Does New Jersey Have Statutes of Limitations?

Like most states, New Jersey has a statute of limitations that regulates how long you have to file personal injury claims. With some exceptions, most accident victims have two years after the date of the event to file damage claims for their injuries, and children can file claims within two years of their 18th birthday.

Of course, there are exceptions, particularly with child sex abuse claims. For example, New Jersey’s new Child Victims Act allows child sex abuse victims to bring claims until age 55 or seven years after they discover the abuse, whichever is later. There is currently an open time window that is set to expire on November 30, 2021, that would allow any sex abuse survivor to file a lawsuit regardless of when the abuse occurred. Every case is unique, which is why it’s recommended to consult a New Jersey personal injury attorney about the limitations which may apply to your case.

It’s important to point out that the statute of limitations applies to your right to have your case presented in civil court. Note that most personal injury cases are settled before ever reaching a courtroom. Nevertheless, it’s still necessary to file your formal lawsuit within the two-year window or your claim will be forever barred.

A New Jersey Personal Injury Attorney Can Help Preserve Your Rights

The days, weeks, and months following a serious accident are usually very difficult. Many people feel overwhelmed by medical appointments and mounting bills. Additionally, many are unable to work due to their injuries, which makes it even harder for their family to make ends meet.

If you or a loved one is dealing with a personal injury, do not wait to contact the experienced New Jersey personal injury attorneys at Leonard Legal Group. We can help you get the compensation you deserve by holding any negligent parties responsible for your damages. Firm owner, Scott Leonard is a Board Certified Civil Trial Attorney and has handled personal injury cases throughout New Jersey for over 25 years. He has the compassion and expertise to get you compensation you deserve.

Schedule a free consultation by calling our team at (973) 984-1414 or by contacting us online. We’ll review your case and answer your questions. We will provide you with a free confidential consultation and if we are able to help you we work on a contingency fee basis. That means you don’t pay any fees unless we help you obtain a monetary settlement. Once you agree to work with us, we’ll get started working on your case immediately.